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Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC
Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer
Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP
Many talented GP trainees and IMGs approach the RACGP Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) with considerable anxiety, even if they've excelled clinically. The reality is, success in the AKT isn't solely about medical knowledge, it's about strategic exam technique. The common AKT mistakes that consistently trip candidates up have nothing to do with intelligence and everything to do with preparation style.
In this article, you'll explore frequent pitfalls that appear year after year in RACGP exam reports, backed by practical AKT tips and actionable AKT exam advice. We’ll cover issues like inadequate timing practice, misguided revision priorities, and subtle misunderstandings of exam questions, providing clear strategies to overcome each one [1].
For more detailed strategies, see our comprehensive AKT timing guide.
Not Simulating Timed Conditions Early Enough
One of the biggest reasons candidates struggle in the AKT is insufficient practice under timed conditions. The exam format is challenging: you're given exactly 3 hours to complete 150 questions, leaving approximately 1.2 minutes per question [1]. Without rigorous practice, the intensity of this timing often catches candidates by surprise.
RACGP examiners consistently note that poor time management contributes heavily to lower scores [1]. In fact, candidates who completed the official RACGP practice exam had far better results—65% passed compared to only 35% of those who didn’t [2].
Here's exactly how you can improve your timing:
Begin timed question practice at least 2–3 months before your AKT.
Gradually increase duration: start with 50 questions in 60 minutes, then progress to full-length simulations.
Recreate exam conditions: no phone, no breaks, no interruptions.
Use official RACGP materials, such as Self-Assessment Progress Tests (SAPTs), to benchmark your performance.
Practise flagging questions and returning to them later rather than getting stuck.
The earlier you normalise this pressure, the calmer you’ll be when facing it on the actual day.
Focusing on Rare Topics Instead of Core GP Conditions
A common trap is spending excessive revision time on obscure medical conditions. The AKT overwhelmingly targets the core general practice scenarios that you manage daily. Yet RACGP reports consistently indicate that candidates mistakenly over-prioritise rare presentations [3].
Data from the BEACH study show that 75% of general practice presentations in Australia involve common conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, respiratory illnesses, mental health, and preventive health checks [4]. It's these conditions—not the rare syndromes—that dominate the AKT.
Effective strategies to refocus your revision:
Devote most of your time to high-yield, common GP scenarios outlined in RACGP guidelines.
Refer primarily to core resources: Therapeutic Guidelines (ETG), Murtagh’s General Practice, and the Australian Immunisation Handbook.
Allocate some revision time to non-clinical domains (ethics, medico-legal issues, Medicare billing) that candidates commonly underestimate [1].
When reviewing rare conditions, concentrate only on crucial 'red flags' you must never miss in clinical practice.
For detailed lists of high-yield AKT topics, visit our core GP conditions study planner.
Ignoring Keyword Cues in Questions (e.g., “Next Best Step”)
One subtle mistake many candidates make is overlooking directive cues like "initial," "next," or "most appropriate" in the questions. RACGP guidelines frequently report candidates incorrectly choosing definitive or confirmatory treatments when questions explicitly ask for immediate next steps or initial investigations [1].
To consistently choose the correct answer, your reasoning must align exactly with these keyword directives.
Practical approaches to avoid this pitfall:
During revision, always underline or mentally note words such as "initial," "next," or "definitive."
Predict the answer category (investigation, treatment, referral) before reviewing given options.
Regularly practise distinguishing between immediate next steps and longer-term definitive actions.
Use past AKT questions and explanations from RACGP SAPTs to hone your sensitivity to question phrasing.
To deepen your understanding of question sequencing, access our AKT reasoning and sequencing guide.
How to Fix These AKT Mistakes Before Exam Day
Awareness of these common AKT mistakes is critical, but proactive correction transforms your chances of passing. Structured, targeted revision techniques ensure your success:
Start rigorous timed exam simulations at least 6 weeks before your AKT.
Allocate the bulk of your revision to frequently encountered general practice scenarios.
Regularly practise careful reading and interpreting directive cues in questions.
Create and practise a clear pacing strategy until it becomes second nature.
Reflect systematically on each mock exam performance, refining your strategies accordingly.
The evidence strongly supports proactive preparation: first-time AKT candidates had a 91.3% success rate, compared to only 23.9% on the fourth attempt [1].
For comprehensive preparation, see our AKT pre-exam checklist for GP trainees.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are common exam mistakes to avoid?
Common mistakes include poor time management, misreading questions, neglecting directive phrases, and focusing excessively on rare topics. These issues are consistently highlighted in RACGP exam reports [1].
2. How to pass an AKT exam?
To pass the AKT exam, regularly practise timed questions, focus revision on high-yield GP topics, carefully read question stems, and make extensive use of official RACGP practice resources. Candidates using these resources achieved a 65% pass rate compared to 35% who did not [2].
3. What is the breakdown of AKT questions?
The AKT consists of 150 multiple-choice questions to complete in 3 hours (1.2 minutes per question). Approximately 80% cover clinical medicine, with around 20% focused on population health, ethics, practice management, and preventive healthcare [1].
4. How to avoid silly mistakes in an exam?
Develop careful reading habits, highlight key patient details and directive phrases, practise disciplined pacing, and consistently review flagged questions. Regular timed practice under realistic conditions significantly reduces avoidable errors [1].
5. How much revision for AKT?
Candidates typically require 3–6 months of structured revision. RACGP recommends focusing primarily on common GP conditions and preventive care guidelines. Using official RACGP resources during revision significantly improves outcomes [2].
Poor Time Allocation Across Question Blocks
Effective pacing isn't only about answering quickly, it's about distributing your time evenly. Candidates commonly spend excessive time on challenging early questions, leaving insufficient time later. RACGP data clearly shows the impact of pacing: first-time AKT sitters who paced consistently had a 91.3% pass rate, compared to only 23.9% for those on their fourth attempt [1].
Adopting a structured pacing strategy transforms your exam approach:
Allocate about 1.2 minutes per question (50 questions per hour).
Use the two-pass method: answer confident questions immediately, flag challenging ones for later.
Regularly review your timing at defined intervals (every 30 minutes).
Always reserve the last 10–15 minutes for revisiting flagged questions and confirming your answers.
Regularly conduct full-length mock exams to train your pacing rhythm thoroughly.
Good pacing replicates the practical triage skills you use daily as a GP, bringing familiarity and calm to exam day.
Failing to Read Question Stems Carefully
Another widespread error is failing to carefully read the details provided in question stems. RACGP exam reports repeatedly highlight candidates missing critical details (such as pregnancy, renal impairment, or age-specific management differences) that entirely change the correct management [1].
Missing words like "not," "except," or important patient information is a costly yet avoidable mistake. Even confident candidates frequently lose marks simply by skimming over these subtleties.
Simple yet effective ways to address this issue:
Read each stem fully before examining answer choices.
Clearly identify critical modifiers and patient demographics (age, gender, chronic conditions) in every question.
Summarise the question scenario mentally before choosing your answer.
Practise this deliberate reading during all revision sessions until it becomes second nature.
For practical examples of how to interpret AKT question stems correctly, explore our AKT question interpretation workshop replay.
If exam stress is affecting your confidence, remember Fellow Academy is here to guide you. Our high-quality AKT and KFP exam resources include carefully developed question banks, concise exam notes, evidence-based flashcards, and practical webinars. We provide the structured support you need to achieve your RACGP Fellowship goals confidently.
Disclaimer:
This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of RACGP. The strategies provided are based on successful candidate experiences and intended as general guidance only [1].
Disclaimer:
This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of RACGP. The strategies provided are based on successful candidate experiences and intended as general guidance only [1].
References
[1] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2024). Applied Knowledge Test 2024.2 Exam Report. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/Fellowship%20Pathways/Exams/AKT-2024-2-Public-Exam-Report.pdf
[2] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners & HealthTrain. (2023). Practice Exam Impact Analysis: Correlation Between Practice Exam Use and AKT Pass Rates. Melbourne, VIC. https://www.racgp.org.au/FSDEDEV/media/documents/Education/Registrars/Fellowship%20Pathways/Exams/2023-2-AKT-Public-Exam-Report-v-3.pdf
[3] Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. (2022). RACGP Curriculum and Syllabus for Australian General Practice 2022. East Melbourne, VIC: RACGP. https://www.racgp.org.au/getattachment/d1c3a3d2-f019-4792-96bf-dc551f70d0db/attachment.aspx
[4] Glasziou, P., Britt, H., Cooke, G., & Valenti, L. (2013). Common general practice presentations and publication frequency. Australian Family Physician, 42(1–2), 65–68. https://www.racgp.org.au/getattachment/5c29af25-055c-41b6-988a-5b1c50ca03a0/Common-general-practice-presentations.aspx
AKT Exam Preparation: Study Strategies That Work
AKT vs KFP: Which RACGP Exam Is Harder (and How to Prepare for Both)
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Dr Shaun Tan, FRACGP, MD, BMSC
Medical Examiner | Associate Lecturer
Scored 90% on the AKT & Top 15th percentile in the KFP
Summary
Many talented GP trainees and IMGs approach the RACGP Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) with considerable anxiety, even if they've excelled clinically. The reality is, success in the AKT isn't solely about medical knowledge, it's about strategic exam technique. The common AKT mistakes that consistently trip candidates up have nothing to do with intelligence and everything to do with preparation style.
In this article, you'll explore frequent pitfalls that appear year after year in RACGP exam reports, backed by practical AKT tips and actionable AKT exam advice. We’ll cover issues like inadequate timing practice, misguided revision priorities, and subtle misunderstandings of exam questions, providing clear strategies to overcome each one [1].
For more detailed strategies, see our comprehensive AKT timing guide.
Not Simulating Timed Conditions Early Enough
One of the biggest reasons candidates struggle in the AKT is insufficient practice under timed conditions. The exam format is challenging: you're given exactly 3 hours to complete 150 questions, leaving approximately 1.2 minutes per question [1]. Without rigorous practice, the intensity of this timing often catches candidates by surprise.
RACGP examiners consistently note that poor time management contributes heavily to lower scores [1]. In fact, candidates who completed the official RACGP practice exam had far better results—65% passed compared to only 35% of those who didn’t [2].
Here's exactly how you can improve your timing:
Begin timed question practice at least 2–3 months before your AKT.
Gradually increase duration: start with 50 questions in 60 minutes, then progress to full-length simulations.
Recreate exam conditions: no phone, no breaks, no interruptions.
Use official RACGP materials, such as Self-Assessment Progress Tests (SAPTs), to benchmark your performance.
Practise flagging questions and returning to them later rather than getting stuck.
The earlier you normalise this pressure, the calmer you’ll be when facing it on the actual day.
Focusing on Rare Topics Instead of Core GP Conditions
A common trap is spending excessive revision time on obscure medical conditions. The AKT overwhelmingly targets the core general practice scenarios that you manage daily. Yet RACGP reports consistently indicate that candidates mistakenly over-prioritise rare presentations [3].
Data from the BEACH study show that 75% of general practice presentations in Australia involve common conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, respiratory illnesses, mental health, and preventive health checks [4]. It's these conditions—not the rare syndromes—that dominate the AKT.
Effective strategies to refocus your revision:
Devote most of your time to high-yield, common GP scenarios outlined in RACGP guidelines.
Refer primarily to core resources: Therapeutic Guidelines (ETG), Murtagh’s General Practice, and the Australian Immunisation Handbook.
Allocate some revision time to non-clinical domains (ethics, medico-legal issues, Medicare billing) that candidates commonly underestimate [1].
When reviewing rare conditions, concentrate only on crucial 'red flags' you must never miss in clinical practice.
For detailed lists of high-yield AKT topics, visit our core GP conditions study planner.
Ignoring Keyword Cues in Questions (e.g., “Next Best Step”)
One subtle mistake many candidates make is overlooking directive cues like "initial," "next," or "most appropriate" in the questions. RACGP guidelines frequently report candidates incorrectly choosing definitive or confirmatory treatments when questions explicitly ask for immediate next steps or initial investigations [1].
To consistently choose the correct answer, your reasoning must align exactly with these keyword directives.
Practical approaches to avoid this pitfall:
During revision, always underline or mentally note words such as "initial," "next," or "definitive."
Predict the answer category (investigation, treatment, referral) before reviewing given options.
Regularly practise distinguishing between immediate next steps and longer-term definitive actions.
Use past AKT questions and explanations from RACGP SAPTs to hone your sensitivity to question phrasing.
To deepen your understanding of question sequencing, access our AKT reasoning and sequencing guide.
Tools That Make Active Recall Easy
Digital tools simplify the process of integrating active recall and spaced repetition into your RACGP exam preparation.
-
Brainscape: Uses adaptive algorithms to determine when you should review each flashcard based on your confidence level.
-
Anki: Allows custom deck creation for topics like PBS rules or emergency management.
-
Quizlet: Offers collaborative decks for study groups.
Using these tools allows you to:
-
Review flashcards during commutes or between patients.
-
Automatically revisit topics you’re struggling with.
-
Track progress and identify weak areas.
These platforms bring structure to your study plan, ensuring regular reinforcement and better recall.
(For time management strategies, see our AKT Study Planner.)
How to Combine These Methods for Peak Performance
When you combine active recall with spaced repetition, the results are exponential. This combination, known as “spaced retrieval practice”, creates a continuous cycle of learning, forgetting, and relearning that strengthens memory.
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Start early (at least 6–12 months before your exam).
-
Create flashcards for each guideline or high-yield topic.
-
Use Brainscape or Anki daily to review material in spaced cycles.
-
Schedule mock exams every 3–4 weeks to test your applied knowledge.
Research indicates spaced repetition can significantly increase long-term retention, with spaced learners achieving approximately 58% accuracy compared to 43% among traditional learners (p<0.001) [4].
By six months into this method, most candidates report not only improved recall but also better confidence under pressure. You’re no longer scrambling to remember—you’re retrieving information automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are common exam mistakes to avoid?
Common mistakes include poor time management, misreading questions, neglecting directive phrases, and focusing excessively on rare topics. These issues are consistently highlighted in RACGP exam reports [1].
2. How to pass an AKT exam?
To pass the AKT exam, regularly practise timed questions, focus revision on high-yield GP topics, carefully read question stems, and make extensive use of official RACGP practice resources. Candidates using these resources achieved a 65% pass rate compared to 35% who did not [2].
3. What is the breakdown of AKT questions?
The AKT consists of 150 multiple-choice questions to complete in 3 hours (1.2 minutes per question). Approximately 80% cover clinical medicine, with around 20% focused on population health, ethics, practice management, and preventive healthcare [1].
4. How to avoid silly mistakes in an exam?
Develop careful reading habits, highlight key patient details and directive phrases, practise disciplined pacing, and consistently review flagged questions. Regular timed practice under realistic conditions significantly reduces avoidable errors [1].
5. How much revision for AKT?
Candidates typically require 3–6 months of structured revision. RACGP recommends focusing primarily on common GP conditions and preventive care guidelines. Using official RACGP resources during revision significantly improves outcomes [2].
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by RACGP exam preparation, Fellow Academy offers high quality AKT and KFP questions, exam notes in concise and comprehensive format, and high yield, evidence based flashcards designed to help you study smarter and perform with confidence. You’ll also find free KFP case packs, webinars, and practical study resources to guide you every step of the way.
Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). The strategies and approaches shared are based on personal experience and the experiences of other GP candidates who successfully passed their exams. They are intended as general study guidance only and should not be taken as official RACGP advice.
References
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GP Supervisors Australia. (2025). Study Skills Guide for GP Registrars: Studying Smarter, Not Harder. GPSA.
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Carpenter, S. K., Pan, S. C., & Butler, A. C. (2022). The science of effective learning with spacing and retrieval practice. Nature Reviews Psychology, 1(10), 496–511.
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Durrani, S. F., Yousuf, N., Ali, R., et al. (2024). Effectiveness of spaced repetition for clinical problem solving amongst undergraduate medical students studying paediatrics in Pakistan. BMC Medical Education, 24(1), 676.
-
Price, D. W., Wang, T., O’Neill, T. R., et al. (2025). The effect of spaced repetition on learning and knowledge transfer in a large cohort of practising physicians. Academic Medicine, 100(1), 94–102.
RACGP Exam Mistakes: Common Pitfalls That Stop Candidates Passing the RACGP Exams
AKT Exam Preparation: Study Strategies That Work
AKT vs KFP: Which RACGP Exam Is Harder (and How to Prepare for Both)