How to revise effectively with passmap

1. Use the Condition Notes as Your Core Map

Each condition note is:

  • NICE-aligned 

  • PARA-exam optimised 

  • Structured with mnemonics, visuals, and red flags

Tip: Start each session by skimming 2–3 notes with active recall (hide the content and try to recall the mnemonic or CXR findings before revealing).

2. Anchor Knowledge with Mnemonics

Our notes use logical, intuitive mnemonics to help you retain:

  • Risk factors

  • Symptoms

  • CXR findings

  • Investigations

  • Management plans

Strategy:

  • Say them aloud

  • Write them down from memory

  • Use them to create flashcards or teach someone else

3. Focus on PARA Exam Priorities

Our content matches the UK PA national curriculum, especially conditions commonly tested in:

  • OSCEs

  • Single best answer (SBA) written exams

Prioritise:

  • Emergency conditions

  • Clinical interpretation

  • NICE treatment steps (especially recent updates)

 

4. Master Clinical Interpretation

PassMap supports core interpretation domains:

  • Chest X-rays and common imaging signs

  • ECG interpretation (AF, STEMI, PE, etc.)

  • Blood results, scoring systems (CURB65, Wells, GRACE)

Tip: Link interpretation back to diagnosis and immediate action. Think like a PA.

5. Use Active Recall + Spaced Repetition

We are developing quizzes, SBAs and mock OSCE checklists, but you can start now by:

  • Hiding content and recalling from headings

  • Turning mnemonics into mock questions

  • Reviewing topics at spaced intervals (1 day, 3 days, 1 week)

6. Build a High-Yield Weekly Routine

The PARA exam covers a large volume of conditions. To revise effectively, a good student should aim to cover:

  • 3–5 full conditions per day (depending on intensity)

  • All systems weekly: Cardiovascular, Respiratory, GI, Neuro, Endocrine, MSK, Infectious, Renal

Weekly Strategy:

  • Focus on 1–2 systems per day

  • Rotate systems every 2–3 days

  • Keep Sundays for summary review or rest

Example Plan:

  • Mon–Tue: Respiratory + Cardiovascular (8–10 conditions)

  • Wed: GI + Endocrine (4–6 conditions)

  • Thu: Neuro/MSK/Infectious (4–6 conditions)

  • Fri: Interpretation practice + OSCE checklists (e.g. 5 CXRs, 3 ECGs, 3 scoring systems)

  • Sat: Consolidation of weak areas + flashcard drills

  • Sun: Light review or rest

Total target: ~20–30 conditions/week + interpretation practice.

For high performers:

  • Aim for 5–6 conditions/day

  • Cycle through all topics in 4 weeks

  • Complete 1 full mock OSCE case/week

7. Make It Reflective

For each condition, ask:

  • Can I explain this clearly to a patient or examiner?

  • Would I spot this on the ward or in clinic?

  • Do I know the first-line investigation and treatment?

Record:

  • 1 new clinical pearl or red flag you learned

  • 1 mistake corrected today

Build this into your PassMap Reflect Journal.

End each week with a self-test:

  • Choose 5 conditions at random and complete a write-up or OSCE-style presentation from memory.

8. Get Involved

We’re building PassMap with you.

You can:

  • Request more topics or systems

  • Submit your mnemonics for review

  • Report outdated guidance

  • Join our testing group

Use our contact form or connect with us via social.

Final Advice:

To succeed in PARA, you need:

  • Pattern recognition — know the classic presentations

  • Fast recall — under exam pressure

  • NICE-aligned management — safe, evidence-based care

PassMap trains you in all three.

Track your progress. Use the mnemonics. Connect the dots.

Pass it with PassMap.

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