How to Master FRCR Part 1 Physics and Pass on Your First Attempt

(https://www.spotters.ai/academy/blog/mastering-frcr-part-1-physics-on-your-first-attempt)

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If you are preparing for FRCR Part 1 physics, chances are this is the part of the exam worrying you the most.

FRCR candidates often struggle with physics not because it is too advanced, but because:

• the True/False format feels unfamiliar

• concepts are memorised instead of understood

• question practice starts too late

This guide explains how to prepare for FRCR Part 1 physics strategically, what first-attempt passers do differently, and how to avoid the most common physics mistakes.

This guide is aligned with the Royal College of Radiologists FRCR Part 1 physics syllabus.

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Why FRCR Part 1 Physics Feels So Difficult

Physics in FRCR Part 1 is challenging because it tests:

• conceptual understanding

• cause-effect reasoning

• speed and confidence

Common FRCR physics mistakes include:

• memorising formulas without understanding

• misreading True/False statements

• ignoring high-yield topics like CT dose

• avoiding physics practice due to fear

Physics is not about remembering more - it’s about thinking clearly.

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What Does FRCR Part 1 Physics Actually Test?

• 40 question stems

• Each with 5 True/False statements

• 120 minutes

• Topics include:

  • X-ray physics

  • CT physics and dose

  • MRI basics

  • Ultrasound physics

  • Radiation safety

Key point:
FRCR physics rewards logic and consistency, not recall.

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How First-Attempt Candidates Approach FRCR Physics Differently

Candidates who pass FRCR Part 1 physics on their first attempt typically:

• Start physics question practice early

• Focus on understanding mechanisms

• Revise repeatedly rather than reading endlessly

• Practice under timed conditions

Candidates who struggle often delay physics or rely only on reading.

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How to Study FRCR Part 1 Physics Effectively

1️⃣ Build Conceptual Clarity First

Before heavy question practice, understand:

• why image quality changes

• how dose is affected

• why artefacts occur

Physics concepts are interconnected - learning them in isolation causes confusion.

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2️⃣ Focus on High-Yield Physics Topics

Some topics appear repeatedly in FRCR physics:

• CT physics and dose (CTDI, DLP)

• Radiation protection principles

• Image quality parameters

• Common artefacts

These areas deserve disproportionate attention.

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3️⃣ Practice True/False Questions Early

True/False questions require:

• precision

• careful reading

• avoidance of assumptions

Early exposure reduces exam-day panic.

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4️⃣ Use Timed Practice Consistently

Physics is not unlimited-time reasoning.

Train yourself to:

• decide confidently

• move on

• avoid overthinking

Speed improves accuracy.

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How Many Physics Questions Should You Practice?

A realistic and sustainable target:

• 30–50 True/False statements per day

• Reviewed with explanations

• Error patterns logged

Quality matters more than volume.

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FRCR Part 1 Physics: High-Yield Areas at a Glance

Topic	Priority
CT physics & dose	Very high
Radiation safety	High
Image quality	High
MRI basics	Moderate
Ultrasound physics	Moderate

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Common Reasons Candidates Fail FRCR Physics

• Starting physics preparation too late

• Avoiding question practice

• Treating physics as memorisation

• Not reviewing mistakes systematically

Failure usually reflects strategy, not ability.

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Final-Phase Physics Revision Strategy

In the last few weeks:

• Stop learning new topics

• Focus on:

  • weak areas

  • repeated errors

  • rapid True/False drills

• Revise explanations, not just answers

Confidence comes from familiarity.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I pass FRCR Part 1 physics on the first attempt?

Yes - many candidates do structured, concept-based preparation.

Is physics harder than anatomy in FRCR Part 1?

Physics feels harder initially, but anatomy is often more time-pressured.

Do I need to memorise formulas?

No. Understanding relationships matters more.

What is the most important physics topic?

CT physics and radiation dose are consistently high-yield.

When should I start physics question practice?

Within the first few weeks of preparation.

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Final Advice

FRCR Part 1 physics is not designed to trick you.

Candidates who:

• understand concepts

• practise consistently

• revise strategically

often clear physics on their first attempt.

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Author

Dr B Gayathri Priyadharshinee
FRCR Radiologist & Educator
Dr Gayathri mentors radiology trainees for international exams, focusing on physics clarity, exam logic, and first-attempt success strategies.

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