The aim of this briefing paper, which includes some guidelines
on ‘what is an essay’, is to assist candidates to prepare for the
paper.
Candidates are required to write one essay from
a choice of three during a one and a half hour
examination.
The essay paper requires candidates to integrate
knowledge rather than to repeat facts, to
synthesise diverse information, and to develop a
reasoned argument. Candidates are expected to
communicate their views succinctly and clearly and
to demonstrate knowledge of relevant literature.
In the essay paper there will neither be a division of questions
between general adult psychiatry and psychiatric specialities nor
specific questions from one of the specialities. All three
questions in the paper will encompass aspects of general adult
psychiatry and one or more of the different psychiatric
specialities. Candidates must read the questions
carefully. For example if the question states ‘throughout
the life cycle’ it will be necessary for the candidate to consider
the relevant aspects of the question from the perspective of
childhood, adulthood, and old age. Failure to do so is likely to
lead to a poor mark.
A panel of examiners, led by the Chair of the Essay Panel, meets
to mark the essays. Particular attention is paid to content,
coherence of argument, literacy, and use of appropriate literature.
Whilst it is not necessary to quote specific research papers in
order to obtain a pass mark, accurate and appropriate inclusion of
research findings is rewarded.
What is an essay?
An essay is a short literary composition dealing with a subject
informatively and logically in legible prose
style. It is not acceptable to submit merely a list
facts. The Essay seeks not just factual information but
the evaluation of this information. It is the one
paper which requires candidates to use their
judgement and to argue their
case.
It is helpful and arguably essential to make a rough
plan of an essay. A plan allows development of a
systematic and logical approach to the structure of the essay. A
plan enables the candidate to check that all the points have been
covered.
A good essay starts with an introduction which
should define the subject matter and place it in its context. This
should be followed by the body of the essay which should state the
main themes and develop a discussion of each.
It is important to communicate clearly when stating the evidence
and developing the arguments, referring to studies and relevant
literature. Where appropriate, research cited should be critically
reviewed. Tables and/or diagrams may be
appropriate.
The essay should end with a succinct conclusion
which encapsulates the main points covered.
Preparation
Essays require practice. It may be useful for candidates to
enlist the help of their tutor or another senior colleague to set
and mark practice essays and then to discuss their attempt in
respect of style, factual information and their ability to bring
together knowledge and argument.