PLAB 1 is a key step in the PLAB exam series for international medical graduates who wish to practice medicine in the UK. This exam focuses on testing your practical medical knowledge and skills, rather than just your ability to memorize facts. It includes questions that are based on the most up-to-date medical practices in the UK, using the kind of equipment you would typically find in UK hospitals.

The content of the PLAB 1 exam is designed to assess your understanding of common, significant, or urgent health conditions that you're likely to encounter in your second year of the Foundation Programme, as well as how to manage ongoing health conditions commonly seen in a primary care setting. However, it does not cover the more advanced responsibilities of a general practitioner (GP).

The format of PLAB 1 is a written test consisting of 180 multiple-choice questions. You will be given three hours to complete the exam. Each question begins with a brief patient scenario, followed by a question. You'll need to choose the correct answer from five options provided.