Hello Students,
I’m Dr. Sehar, and today I want to talk about something that every AFK candidate asks at some point during their preparation:
“Should I focus more on clinical questions or theoretical ones?”
“Which one is harder?”
“How do I prepare for both without feeling overwhelmed?”
The truth is — you need to be strong in both to truly excel in the AFK. But don’t worry, I’m here to guide you through the differences, how to prepare efficiently for each type, and how we tackle this step-by-step in my one-on-one AFK coaching sessions.
The Two Pillars of the AFK Exam
What Are Clinical Questions?
Clinical questions present real-life dental scenarios. They’ll describe a patient case and ask you to:
- Choose the right diagnosis
- Select the best treatment
- Interpret radiographic or clinical signs
These questions test how you apply knowledge, not just recall it.
What Are Theoretical Questions?
These are fact-based or concept-based questions. You’ll need to recall:
- Drug classifications and mechanisms
- Anatomical structures
- Bacterial species
- Histology features
They’re more traditional MCQs — but the tricky part is recognizing the subtle details.
Why You Must Excel in Both to Score Well
Scoring high on the AFK means you’re consistently getting the right answers across all question types. Some students lean too much on theory and get stumped by clinical logic. Others rely on real-world experience but forget core facts.
My coaching program helps you build a balance—and we customize your plan based on where you’re stronger and where you need more focus.
Common Features of Clinical Questions in AFK
Case-Based Scenarios and Diagnosis
These questions often look like:
“A 40-year-old patient presents with pain on biting and thermal sensitivity. Radiograph shows no periapical lesion. What’s the most likely diagnosis?”
To answer correctly, you need to analyze symptoms, match them with disease patterns, and sometimes compare similar diagnoses.
Treatment Planning and Decision Making
AFK will ask:
- “What is the next best step in management?”
- “Which treatment option has the best prognosis?”
It’s not just about what you know, but how you think.
Common Mistakes in Clinical Reasoning
- Ignoring key words in the question (e.g., “asymptomatic” or “non-vital”)
- Jumping to conclusions without reading options
- Applying knowledge from other countries’ guidelines instead of Canadian standards
In our sessions, I help students break down these questions, analyze why a specific option is correct, and how to avoid falling for distractors.
Common Features of Theoretical Questions in AFK
Memorization-Based Topics
Here’s where flashcards and repetition shine. You’ll get questions like:
- “What drug class does Clindamycin belong to?”
- “Which nerve innervates the buccal gingiva of mandibular molars?”
They test your pure knowledge recall.
Recall of Drug Mechanisms, Anatomy, and Microbiology
Some areas to focus on:
- Pharmacology: Drug mechanisms, side effects, and contraindications
- Anatomy: Nerve pathways, muscle attachments
- Microbiology: Pathogen features, disease associations
Tricky Wordings and Conceptual Gaps
Theoretical questions can look simple but are often loaded with traps. AFK loves to test:
- Opposites (e.g., hyperplasia vs hypertrophy)
- Exceptions to rules
- Small differences in drug classes
That’s why we train in test-style thinking, not just fact memorization.
Study Techniques for Theoretical Content
Active Recall and Spaced Repetition
I teach my students to use Anki or Quizlet to build a strong recall base. Even 15 minutes a day with spaced repetition can do wonders.
Using Visual Aids and Mnemonics
To simplify heavy topics like pharmacology or microbiology, we use:
- Flowcharts
- Color-coded charts
- Funny mnemonics (yes, humor helps memory!)
Building Strong Foundational Notes
I help you organize notes that build understanding, not just copy-paste facts. Our coaching materials include condensed, exam-aligned summaries for faster review.
Study Techniques for Clinical Application Questions
Reading and Interpreting Scenarios
We practice reading patient case studies and real AFK-style questions weekly. You’ll learn how to:
- Spot red flags
- Use logic before choosing an answer
- Eliminate distractors
Practice With Case-Based Question Banks
In my sessions, I give access to exclusive case-based question banks that simulate the clinical logic of the real exam. Each case is followed by detailed explanation sessions.
Discussing Reasoning with a Tutor
One of the biggest game-changers? Talking through your reasoning with me. Many students find that just verbalizing their logic helps uncover gaps—and I provide feedback in real time.
How My One-on-One Coaching Helps Balance Both Areas
Here’s how I ensure you’re ready for both theoretical and clinical question types:
Personalized Plans Based on Your Strengths
Every student gets a custom study plan, based on:
- Mock test results
- Subject strengths and weaknesses
- Time availability
This helps you avoid overstudying what you already know, and zero in on what needs work.
Clinical Thinking Practice with Me
We meet weekly to solve clinical scenarios together. I walk you through the logic, highlight traps, and build your confidence with clinical reasoning.
Weekly Feedback to Strengthen Weak Zones
After each mock test or practice set, I provide feedback sessions to correct patterns, reinforce key concepts, and show you how to approach similar questions in the future.
Let’s Talk — Book Your FREE 30-Minute Orientation Call
Still unsure whether you’re studying the right way?
Book a free 30-minute orientation session with me. No pressure, no obligation—just expert advice on:
- Where your prep stands now
- What question types you’re struggling with
- How we can build your confidence in both clinical and theory questions
FAQs About Question Types in AFK
Q. Are clinical questions harder than theoretical ones?
Not always. Clinical questions seem harder because they require application. But with enough practice, they become very manageable.
Q. Can I pass the AFK by focusing on theory alone?
It’s risky. Clinical questions make up a large portion of the exam. You must balance both.
Q. How many clinical-style questions appear on the exam?
While exact numbers vary, over 50% of the questions involve clinical reasoning or patient scenarios.
Q. Do you provide practice cases during coaching?
Yes! I offer exclusive AFK-style case studies during our sessions, along with explanation walkthroughs.
Q. What’s the best way to improve reasoning?
Practice. But more importantly—reviewing that practice with feedback. That’s where I step in.
Q. Can I get help even if I’ve failed AFK before?
Absolutely. Many of my students are repeat test takers who turn things around through personalized strategy and support.
Conclusion: Master Both, and You’ll Master the AFK
You don’t need to choose between theory and clinical. You need to master both—with the right tools, the right mindset, and the right guide.
I’d love to be that guide for you.
Let’s create a study plan that finally makes sense.
Let’s build the confidence you need to walk into that exam room and say, I’ve got this.
Book your free orientation session with me today. Your success starts now.
Warmly,
Dr. Sehar