The aim of this book is to allow candidates to orientate themselves towards the intercollegiate speciality examination in orthopaedics leading to the FRCS (Tr & Orth) award. It affords guidance on the appropriate examination skills and approaches, which hopefully will lead to success in this examination.

The FRCS (Tr & Orth) continues to evolve with significant changes in both the written part of the exam, which must now be successfully completed prior to entry into the clinical, and to the oral.

This book has been written by those who have recently successfully completed the examination. It is written from the candidate's point of view and experience in the way the examination is conducted.

While no single book can be a substitute for wide clinical experience and knowledge of the orthopaedic literature, I believe that this text will be of value to candidates preparing to sit the examination. There is no doubt that presentation in the examination setting is important in ensuring success.