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Strategy · 5 min read · Updated 2026-08-11

FRCR Part 1 Physics: what to study first

A sensible topic order for FRCR Part 1 Physics — foundations first, then high-yield modalities, with radiation protection threaded throughout.

You do not need a perfect order — you need an order that builds shared concepts early and revisits radiation protection often. The sequence below works for most first-time Part 1 Physics candidates.

Suggested sequence

  • 1. X-ray production & interactions — language of dose, attenuation, and image formation.
  • 2. Image quality & digital radiography — MTF, noise, detectors.
  • 3. CT physics — reconstruction, artefacts, CT dose metrics.
  • 4. MRI physics — sequences, contrast, safety.
  • 5. Ultrasound & Doppler — wave physics and artefacts.
  • 6. Fluoroscopy / interventional dose — ABC, DAP, staff protection.
  • 7. Nuclear medicine — radionuclides, SPECT/PET basics.
  • Throughout: radiation protection — dose quantities, legislation themes, ALARA.

Why this order

X-ray and image-quality vocabulary shows up inside CT, fluoro, and DR stems. MRI and ultrasound are more self-contained but still rely on a calm true/false technique. Nuclear medicine is often left late — schedule it explicitly so it is not squeezed into the final weekend.

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Practice next

Pair this guide with Topic Focus and timed mocks inside FRCRX when you are ready.