From Prep to Exam Day: How to Conquer the MD/MS Test- By Dr. Anish
- Dr. Anish Dhakal
- Sep 16, 2024
- 11 min read
Updated: Oct 8, 2024
The MD/MS postgraduate entrance exam in Nepal stands out as one of the toughest challenges in the country. Amidst intense competition, the choice between studying and working, and the need to shine among the best candidates and brightest minds, medical doctors navigate a demanding and stressful period. Despite the overlapping content of the NMCLE and PGMEE exams, drawn from the vast MBBS syllabus, the fierce competition and intricate material pose a formidable hurdle to achieving a top rank. This guide offers the most comprehensive tips to conquer this examination successfully.
About Dr. Anish : A Journey of Dedication and Excellence 🩺📚
Introducing the one and only Dr. Anish, the medical wizard extraordinaire! 🎉 This remarkable individual not only conquered the prestigious All Nepal Rank 76 in the CEE MD/MS Exam 2080 but is also rocking his MD Radiodiagnosis studies at KUSMS like a boss. Dr. Anish doesn't just excel in his field; he practically lives, breathes, and dreams medicine! His journey is like a superhero saga, inspiring not only for his brainy brilliance but also for his undying love for guiding future medical rockstars on their epic quests to success! 🌟

Academic Excellence and Current Pursuits 🏆🎓
Securing the 76th rank in one of Nepal's most competitive postgraduate medical entrance exams is no small feat. This remarkable achievement reflects Dr.Anish deep understanding of the extensive medical curriculum and his ability to navigate the rigorous demands of the CEE MD/MS Exam. Now, as an MD Radiodiagnosis candidate at KUSMS, he continues to build upon his expertise, contributing to the medical community with both his knowledge and experience.
Author and Editor of Key Medical Resources 📖🖋️
His contributions extend beyond his personal academic accomplishments. He is the author of two essential guidebooks: NMCLE in a Nutshell and PGMEE in a Nutshell. These books have become invaluable resources for medical graduates preparing for the Nepal Medical Council Licensing Examination (NMCLE) and the Postgraduate Medical Entrance Examination (PGMEE). Recognizing the need for comprehensive, concise study materials, he distilled his insights and experience into these guides, offering readers a roadmap to success in these challenging exams.
In addition to his authorial work, he has served as the editor for Stepping Out of NMCLE and All Nepal PGMEE Easy Entry. These publications offer strategic advice, study tips, and practice questions, providing a thorough overview of the exams and the essential knowledge required. His editorial work reflects a commitment to clarity and accessibility, ensuring that complex medical concepts are presented in a manner that is both understandable and practical for exam preparation.
A Commitment to Medical Education 🎯👨⚕️
Dr. Anish achievements and contributions highlight his unwavering commitment to medical education. His journey from a medical student to an MD Radiodiagnosis candidate and a published author/editor demonstrates a drive to not only excel personally but also to empower others in the medical community. By sharing his knowledge and strategies, he aims to alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty that many medical graduates face when preparing for their postgraduate entrance exams.
Whether through his books, his academic achievements, or his current pursuits, the author continues to inspire and support the next generation of doctors in Nepal. His work serves as a testament to what can be achieved through dedication, hard work, and a passion for learning. 🌟📚
Expert Q&A: Dr. Anish Dhakal Addresses Common MD/MS Exam Questions
In this insightful blog post, Dr. Anish Dhakal, author of PGMEE IN A NUTSHELL, addresses the most frequently asked questions from MD/MS aspirants. From effective study strategies to handling exam-day stress, Dr. Dhakal shares expert tips and practical advice to help you confidently prepare for and succeed in your MD/MS entrance exams.
What is MECEE(MD/MS) Exam?
Previously, central universities and academies like IOM, PAHS, NAMS, KUSMS, and BPKIHS conducted their own entrance examinations for postgraduate admissions based on merit. However, with the establishment of the Medical Education Commission (MEC) under the prevailing legal framework, a single, unified entrance exam is now conducted annually. This centralized process applies to every postgraduate medical admission in Nepal, including select seats for foreign candidates, ensuring a rigorous merit-based selection.
The examination comprises 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) drawn from 19 subjects within the MBBS curriculum. This breadth of content can be daunting, as the questions can cover virtually any aspect of the extensive syllabus. The exam also includes mandatory CPD topics, such as medical ethics and communication skills. Each question has one correct answer, and incorrect responses incur a penalty of 0.25 marks. No marks are deducted for unanswered questions. The total duration of the exam is 3 hours, with questions that may range from direct to scenario-based, limited to a maximum vignette length of 60 words. In terms of difficulty, the questions are distributed as follows: 30% recall, 50% understanding, and 20% application or higher-order thinking. To qualify, candidates must score above the 50th percentile, effectively requiring them to outperform at least half of the examinees to be eligible for the matching process.
How do you choose the right resources for MD/MS entrance exam?📚
Selecting the right resources is crucial. Since you've already completed your MBBS and NMCLE, many topics will be familiar.
Recommended books include
"PGMEE in a Nutshell,"
"Mudit Khanna All India NEET PGMEE Pattern,"
"All Nepal PGMEE Easy Entry," and
"First Aid Step 1.
Online platforms like Pre-PG, Marrow, Prepladder, and CEE Success Nepal offer free content and subscriptions.
Physical coaching is an option, though it's a newer concept in some regions. Regardless of resources, consistent hard work and persistence are key to success.
Why are grand tests crucial for CEE (MD/MS) exam preparation, and how should I approach them? 🩺📈
During the revision pool phase, mock tests offers targeted resources like, practice questions, and high-yield summaries, helping you focus exclusively on revising critical content. By providing structured revision plans and a grand test each week, it ensures your preparation is both comprehensive and effective, boosting your confidence and readiness for the exam. 🎯📚
Grand tests play a pivotal role in CEE exam preparation and should be taken once a week in a simulated environment that mirrors the real exam. These tests, consisting of 200 questions, can be conducted online. After completing each test, it's crucial to thoroughly review the questions and understand the explanations, especially where confusion between options was intended by the examiner. This comprehensive approach helps deepen your understanding of concepts, rather than merely memorizing answers.
Focus on all levels of questions, not just the difficult ones, and use your test scores as motivation rather than comparison with others. Your progress may not always be linear, but what's important is continuous self-improvement. Additionally, when practicing MCQs, simulate real exam conditions by applying every technique to answer correctly, avoiding the habit of immediately checking answers. This methodical approach to grand tests helps build speed, accuracy, and confidence for the actual examination. 🎯
Why choose CEE Success Nepal CEE(MD/MS) Mocks?👨⚕️
Crafted by experts
Designed by 90+ experts, and near all toppers and rankers of past 3 years of competitive exams.
Master key questions
Master the high yield and most frequently tested questions. Simulate the real test in expected pattern.
Adjust efforts to excel
Review your Rank among others, and re-design the extra efforts required to ace the competitive exams.
Discover yourself
Discover your weakness and focus on it.
🎉 FREE LAST YEAR CEE(MD/MS) 2080 Mock Test! 🎉
What is the best strategy for approaching the CEE (MD/MS) exam, especially under pressure? 🧠📋
Staying calm and composed during the exam is crucial. Anxiety can impair your ability to recall information and lead to careless mistakes, particularly when filling out the OMR sheet. Your performance on the exam reflects your cumulative knowledge, preparation level, and sometimes a bit of luck. Here's an effective strategy to tackle the exam:
1. First Round: Confident Questions Only 🎯
Begin by answering only the questions you are certain about. If there is even a hint of confusion, skip to the next one. Remember, on the OMR sheet, you cannot change your answers once marked, so fill it out carefully. Pay special attention to avoid errors in marking your roll number and set number.
2. Second Round: Use Recall and Techniques 🔍
After your first pass, go back to the questions you marked for review. Attempt those where you have partial knowledge or a reasonable chance of deducing the answer. Use recall techniques and other strategies you’ve practiced to narrow down the options. Manage your time efficiently during this round.
3. Third Round: The Hardest Questions 🧩
In the final pass, address the questions where you were initially clueless. If there’s a negative marking system, it’s generally wise to leave out questions where you are completely unsure of all four options. However, if you choose to answer, avoid random guessing; instead, try to make an educated guess based on any hints or patterns you've identified.
4. Time Management and Accuracy ⏳
Throughout the exam, be mindful of the time. Allocate it in such a way that you can complete all three rounds without feeling rushed. The key is to make each attempt count—it's not just about answering as many questions as possible but ensuring that each response is carefully considered.
5. Keep a Calm Mind 🧘♂️
Your ability to remain calm directly influences your performance. Taking a moment to breathe and refocus can prevent errors and keep your mind sharp. Avoid panicking over difficult questions; instead, move on and return to them later if time allows.
By employing this multi-round strategy, you maximize your chances of selecting the correct answers while minimizing the risk of negative marking. Properly managing your time and staying composed can make a significant difference in achieving your best possible score. 📈🩺
What are some quick tricks for tackling tricky MCQs when unsure of the answer?
Here are some condensed strategies to help you navigate difficult MCQs:
Read Carefully: Look for keywords like "not" or "except" that can change the question's meaning.
Eliminate Options: Rule out choices you know are incorrect to increase your chances.
"All of the Above" Clue: If two options are correct, "all of the above" is often the answer.
Avoid Extremes: Options with words like "always" or "never" are less likely to be correct.
Favor Conditionals: Words like "usually" or "may" often indicate the correct choice.
Spot Errors: Incorrect answers may have grammatical mistakes or odd wording.
Gut Instinct: Trust your first impression, especially with familiar questions.
Opposites and Outliers: If two options are opposites, one might be correct.
Longest Option: The most detailed choice often contains the right answer.
Consistent Marking: If guessing, stick to the same option across several questions.
Use these tricks in combination with your knowledge for the best results. 🎯📚
Should you quit your job to focus on studying for the entrance exam? 💼📚
Deciding whether to quit your job to prepare for an entrance exam involves weighing several factors. On one hand, quitting allows you to dedicate 6 months to a year fully to your studies, which can significantly improve your chances. However, financial stability and personal circumstances often make this option challenging.
If quitting isn’t feasible, choose a job that allows flexible study time. Even limited, consistent study each day can lead to substantial progress over time. Remember, balancing work and preparation requires extra effort and sacrifices, but the long-term rewards can make it worthwhile. Prioritize your health and rest, especially after demanding shifts. With determination and effective time management, your dedication can lead to success despite the challenges. 🌟📈
What if I need a lower rank to get into my dream branch? 🎯📚
Choosing your medical specialty is a crucial decision that can define your career and identity. It’s essential to prioritize your desired field of study over the prestige of the college or financial scheme. Here’s why:
Branch Over College: Your specialty will shape your career and life long after your college years. It’s more important to choose a field you’re passionate about than to focus solely on the college’s rank or financial considerations.
Excel Regardless: Strive for excellence in your chosen field, regardless of the college's ranking. A lower-ranked college does not limit your potential. Your dedication and hard work will define your success and open up opportunities.
Aim High: Even if you target a lower rank to enter your dream branch, aim to perform at your best. Relying on a specific rank can be risky due to the competitive nature of exams. Aiming for a top rank will provide more flexibility and options.
Ultimately, focus on achieving the best possible rank to give yourself the best chance of entering your preferred specialty. Your career success will depend more on your effort and expertise than on the initial rank of your college. 🌟💪
What if you don’t get your dream branch after the exam? 🤔📉
Not securing your preferred specialty can be disheartening, but it's important to evaluate your options carefully. Here are some factors to consider before deciding whether to accept the available branch, explore opportunities abroad, or take a drop year:
Evaluate Your Preparation: Reflect on whether you gave your best effort. Did you study thoroughly, take sufficient tests, and revise properly? If you believe you could have done more, taking a drop year might lead to significant improvements.
Assess Improvement Potential: If you think your rank could improve with better preparation, and if this was your first attempt or if you have specific changes planned for your next attempt, a drop year might be beneficial.
Understand Your Current Branch: Research the branch you have been allocated. Sometimes, excelling in a less desired field can be more rewarding than struggling in a top-ranked specialty.
Financial and Personal Considerations: Ensure you can sustain yourself financially during a drop year. Consider whether you have the resources and support to handle another year of preparation.
Avoid External Pressures: Make sure your decision is based on personal goals and genuine interest rather than peer pressure or family expectations.
Learn from Mistakes: Identify any mistakes from your previous preparation that you can correct. This reflection can guide you in improving your strategy for the next attempt.
Commit to Your Decision: Whether you choose to take a drop year or accept the branch offered, commit fully to your decision. Ensure that you’re ready to handle the associated pressures and challenges.
Method for Decision: If you answered "Yes" to most of the above questions, taking a drop year might be a valid option. It’s important to weigh these factors carefully to make an informed decision that aligns with your long-term career goals. 🌟📈
What if you fail the exam? 😔
Facing failure can be tough, especially after investing so much effort into preparation. However, it's crucial to remember that failure is not the end, but rather a step in the journey. Here’s how to cope with and move beyond it:
Acknowledge the Reality: Accept that failure happens. Visualize the worst-case scenario to put things into perspective. Understand that this is not the end of the world; there are countless worse situations, and many doctors have faced similar setbacks.
Focus on Control: Concentrate on what you can control. Execute the steps necessary to improve and avoid dwelling on factors beyond your control. Keep working hard and making the most of your situation.
Embrace Positivity: Be grateful for what you have and continue doing your best. Keep faith and stay optimistic. Remember, there’s always hope and a chance for a better outcome in the future. As Gwendolyn Brooks said, “Even if you are not ready for the day, it cannot always be night.”
Prioritise Self-Belief: Understand that your self-worth and efforts matter more than anything else. Focus on what you believe is best for you and use failure as a learning experience, not a deterrent.
By accepting failure with a constructive mindset and focusing on positive actions, you can navigate through setbacks and find new paths to success. 🌟✨
As you embark on your journey to conquer one of the most challenging exams in Nepal, remember that success is not solely defined by the outcome, but by the resilience, dedication, and passion you pour into your preparation. The road may be tough, but every challenge you overcome brings you closer to your dreams. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, "What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." Keep pushing forward, believe in your abilities, and know that your hard work will pay off. Best of luck on your path to success! 🌟
Thank you for reading! We hope you found this guide helpful on your exam journey. Stay tuned, as we will be bringing more insightful MedTalks and Podcasts soon to keep you informed, motivated, and inspired. Until then, keep striving for excellence, and remember—you have what it takes to succeed! 🌟
Comments