BOOKS

Recommended books

You do not need all of these. Pick one reference for the AKT, one for examination and communication for the CPSA, and add the rest as you need them.

AKT

Wilkinson, Juniper, Hayes and colleagues

The pocket reference most UK trainees carry. Concise, bedside-oriented summaries.

How to use it: Look up a topic after a missed question, then check current NICE guidance.

AKT

Feather, Chapman, Fraser

A full textbook of adult medicine with the depth a handbook lacks.

How to use it: Read the chapter on one hard system; do not try to read it cover to cover.

CPSA

Thomas, Monaghan

Step-by-step examination routines and procedures you can rehearse.

How to use it: Learn each sequence until you can say it aloud while you perform it.

CPSA

Douglas, Nicol, Robertson

Clear, illustrated guidance on history and examination, and what each sign means.

How to use it: Use it to understand findings so you can state them confidently.

CPSA

Silverman, Kurtz, Draper

The standard text behind the Calgary–Cambridge consultation model taught in UK schools.

How to use it: Read the chapters on gathering information and explaining; practise the phrases.

AKT and CPSA

Hope, Savulescu, Hendrick

A readable guide to consent, capacity, confidentiality and the UK legal framework.

How to use it: Read it alongside Good medical practice; both feed questions and stations.

After the UKMLA

Wilkinson and colleagues

Written for new UK doctors: ward jobs, prescribing, escalation and on-call.

How to use it: Read it before your first shift and keep it in your bag.

Buying tips

Choose the **latest edition**; guidance and drug doses change.
Check your library, colleagues or a second-hand copy for older editions, but use current guidelines for treatment.
A good handbook plus the free official sources beats five overlapping books.