A few years ago Marvin Munzu from Pre-Reg Shortcuts shared advice and guidance for pre-reg pharmacists preparing for the GPhC exam. This article was one of the first on the Locate a Locum blog yet the tips are still relevant to those sitting their exam in November.

1. What are you going to focus on?

What are you focusing on in relation to your exam? Are you focusing on what you do well, when maybe you should be focusing on the areas that you struggle with?

You should focus on your strengths because that’s where you’ll get your confidence from, but you need to acknowledge that you do have weaknesses. Addressing your weaknesses will also give you great confidence as you see improvements.

2. Deciding how to handle your experiences

How are your mock exams and practice questions progressing? Are you becoming stressed because you’re getting questions wrong? Or are you going to view these small discretions as temporary blips and take confidence from the improvements that you’re making?

Your mindset is your choice. Failure doesn’t have to be a failure. Try to view it is a chance to grow and as a learning experience.

3. It’s your decision what happens next

It’s up to you what result you get, the power is in your hands! If you aren’t confident of passing, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you won’t. You still have time to change your habits. Go and talk to a friend from your class and help each other.

Sharing knowledge is power when it comes to working in pharmacy. You don’t do this alone. Learn from your friends and share your doubts. Understanding that your peers aren’t perfect can help you deal with the unnecessary pressure that you place on yourself. So, don’t give up!

At this stage in your revision preparation the most important aspect of your development is your ‘mental strength’.

Approach your exams with positivity. Learn from mistakes and see mistakes as room for development. A positive mindset can help to reduce stress and can bring enjoyment to your professional development. A happy mind can recall information with greater ease than a foggy mind.

Stay positive!

Get in contact with Locate a Locum

When you receive the good news from your GPhC exam results, get in contact with us whether you are searching for a locum role or a permanent full time job. Our friendly and helpful team will be able to guide and advise you on the best solution for you.