What is SPEX AKT?

SPEX AKT (Applied Knowledge Test) provides focused support around exam preparation, revision strategies and exam technique, with additional 1 to 1 support available for GP Registrars (GPRs) approaching later attempts.

The SPEX AKT course is a one day course run online. The morning is run by the SPEX team and the afternoon by the RCGP.

Throughout the course there is a focus on revision strategies, exam technique, question formats and identifying individual learning needs.

This is a course offered to:

  • all GPRs who are enrolled on the SPEX courses.
  • any GPRs who have had a previous unsuccessful attempt at AKT

For repeated attempts at the AKT, the SPEX AKT course can be repeated up to 3 times if it is felt this will be helpful.

All GPRs who are on their 4th or 5th attempt at the AKT will be offered an AKT 1 to 1 with one of the SPEX team in addition to their meetings with their patch TPD/AD.

All GPRs on the AKT course will be eligible to receive a copy of the Fourteen Fish AKT package.

What is SPEX AKT 1 to 1

SPEX AKT 1 to 1 is a personalised meeting with a member of the SPEX team, available to GPRs who are approaching their 4th or 5th attempt at the AKT. This session aims to provide tailored support by exploring each doctor’s unique situation, previous AKT attempts, and any challenges they may have faced. While new insights cannot be guaranteed, these sessions focus on developing individualised exam and revision strategies. Advice is often drawn from doctors who have succeeded after multiple attempts, sharing techniques and approaches that proved effective in their journey to passing the AKT.

AKT Hints and Tips

Preparation

  • Allow plenty of time to revise (most candidates allow 16-24 weeks, with two to three evenings a week and some weekends).
  • Calculate how many quality hours of revision you need to do and create a revision timetable
  • Apply for the AKT at a time that suits you (eg. during quieter rotations and a stable period personally)
  • Complete the RCGP Self Test tool to identify specific learning needs.
  • Use the RCGP curriculum and condensed guides to plan your revision – focus on knowledge and skills self assessment

Revision strategies

  • Use at least two question banks (e.g. Passmedicine, GP SelfTest)
  • Aim to go through questions at least twice.
  • Focus revision on core GP topics (e.g. hypertension, asthma, COPD, diabetes, IHD).
  • Use NICE, BMJ and BNF resources to support knowledge gaps.
  • FourteenFish AKT package can be helpful for consolidating knowledge in key areas.
  • Use high‑yield topic checklists (eg. Emedica) to prioritise revision and focus on areas that are more commonly tested.
  • Identify learning needs during clinical practice (e.g. PUNs and DENs) and revise these topics.
  • Towards the end of revision, ensure data interpretation and admin topics are fresh.
  • The ACE GP Training podcast (“How to start preparing for the AKT”) can provide a helpful overview of revision approaches.

Using question banks effectively

  • Use question banks to identify areas of knowledge that you need to revise.
  • Do 10- 20 questions at a time and learn around the topics.
  • Identify commonly repeated themes and focus revision accordingly.
  • Review examiner reports and focus on topics that candidates commonly perform poorly in, as these may recur in future exams.
  • Avoid doing large volumes of questions without reviewing incorrect answers.
  • Towards the end of revision, complete 2–3 full mock exams to practise time management.

Memory and concentration

  • Study in shorter focused blocks (around 20 minutes), followed by short breaks.
  • After each block, test yourself rather than passively reviewing notes.
  • Avoid prolonged revision sessions (>2 hours) without longer breaks.
  • Use spaced repetition – recalling material after a delay improves long‑term retention.
  • Flashcards (e.g. Anki) can support spaced repetition and reinforce key learning points.

Exam technique

  • Read the question first, then the vignette, identifying key words.
  • Use the “cover test” – think of the answer before looking at options.
  • Avoid changing answers unless you are confident.
  • Think like a GP when answering questions (rather than a hospital doctor).
  • The night before the exam: avoid new learning, rest well, and focus on mindset

Guidelines and knowledge application

  • Start with questions to identify common themes and areas of weakness.
  • Use these themes to guide your review of relevant guidelines.
  • Focus on understanding key patterns in how guidelines are applied in exam questions.
  • Discuss topics with your Educational Supervisor, particularly around practice organisation and application in primary care.

Learning with others

  • Establish a regular revision routine.
  • Organise a revision group either in person or virtual.
  • Divide up topics between you to share with all.
  • Focusing on a tricky topic and then teaching to others is an excellent way to learn.
  • Learning as a group is active learning and helps embed to memory.
  • Write your own MCQs and create clinical scenarios to reinforce learning.

SPEX AKT Key resources

Resources to support your AKT preparation: