Demystify the Certifying Exam

Replacing Uncertainty with Confidence

"What does the examiner want me to say?" "What and how should I study?" "I'm anxious about the exam." "How can I defend myself from the examiner?" "How do I prove that I am a safe surgeon?" These are some of the most common questions and concerns I hear from candidates — and for good reason. For most surgeons, the exam is an unknown, cloaked in mystery. It is the last major test you will ever take, it is difficult (only about a 76% average pass rate over the last five years), and it is high-stakes, because the outcome determines board certification and, potentially, your career.

Where can you find answers? Everyone you talk to has a different opinion about what you should or should not do — so much so that you only become more confused. The Guide solves the mystery.

You'll discover how the exam really works, with its two fundamental building blocks — organized process thinking and effective communication — playing out in a dynamic interaction under exam conditions. You'll understand what it takes to present yourself promptly, clearly, and logically. You'll realize that effective preparation is analogous to learning a new, subtle, sophisticated surgical procedure.

With this Guide, your ability to master powerful presentation skills under experienced guidance will be faster, more effective, and more efficient. Emotions like anxiety and confusion will be replaced with confidence and certainty.

Whatever your discipline — general surgery, cardiothoracic, colon and rectal, vascular, or plastic surgery — let Demystifying the Surgery Certifying Examination give you the understanding you need to optimize your preparation for, and performance on, your Certifying Examination.