FCPS - Synopsis Writing - Key Strategies

Writing a compelling synopsis for the FCPS (Fellowship of the College of Physicians and Surgeons) examination is a critical step in showcasing your expertise and readiness for this prestigious qualification. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of effective strategies for crafting a well-structured and impactful synopsis that meets the high standards of the FCPS.

1. FCPS Synopsis Writing This presentation will discuss the components of writing a synopsis for the Fellowship of the College of Physicians and Surgeons (FCPS) program. by Easy Store

2. Before Starting Before starting work on a dissertation or article, an FCPS trainee must submit a synopsis to the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Pakistan (RCPS) for approval. Synopsis A brief outline of your future work, typically 4 A4 pages or 1000 words. Approval The synopsis must be approved by the RCPS before you can proceed with your research.

3. Synopsis Headings A synopsis must include the following headings: Title, Introduction, Objectives, Operational Definition, Hypothesis, Material and Methods. 1 Title Should reflect the objectives of the study and be written after the synopsis is complete. 2 Introduction Provides background information on the topic, identifies the importance of the study, and states the purpose. 3 Objectives Clearly state what the researcher plans to achieve in their work. 4 Hypothesis A statement showing the expected relationship between two variables.

4. Objectives Objectives are statements that inform the reader about the researcher's plans. They should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). General Broad statements that outline the overall aim of the study. Specific Detailed statements that describe the specific actions the researcher will take.

5. Operational Definition An operational definition defines a term specifically by explaining how it will be measured. Morbidity Defined by factors like prolonged hospital stay, severe pain, complications, and long-term sequelae. Efficacy Measured by factors like time taken for symptom relief, number of side effects, and time taken for complete recovery.

6. Hypothesis A hypothesis is a statement that shows the expected relationship between two variables. Study Design Hypothesis Needed Interventional studies Yes Cohort Yes Case control Yes Comparative cross sectional Yes

7. Material and Methods This section details the research design, setting, duration, sample size, sampling technique, data collection procedure, and data analysis procedure. 1 Study Design Mention the name of the appropriate study design. 2 Setting Name and place where the research work is to be conducted. 3 Duration of Study How long will the study take with dates. 4 Sample Size How many patients will be included. If there are groups, how many per group? 5 Sampling Technique Type of sampling technique employed. 6 Data Collection Procedure A detailed account of how the researcher will perform research. 7 Data Analysis Procedure Relevant details naming software to be used, which descriptive statistics and which test of significance if and when required, specifying variables where it will be applied.

8. References References should be in Vancouver style (for detail refer to page 132). Data Collection Instrument The researcher must attach, as an annex, the proforma or questionnaire with the help of which he/she intends to collect data. Proforma or Questionnaire The proforma/questionnaire must match the objectives and must not contain irrelevant sections like inclusion and exclusion criteria etc.