Practise — drug calculations
How to practise drug calculations: a 14-day plan
A simple practice plan that takes you from the basics to mixed tests, with links to theory and exercises for each topic.
14 days, one topic at a time
A little every day is better than a lot in one go. Adjust the plan to the time you have left.
| When | What | Page |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1–2 | Units and conversion | Unit conversion |
| Days 3–4 | Dosage calculations: tablets and liquids | Dosage calculations |
| Days 5–6 | Percentages and concentration | Percentage solutions |
| Day 7 | Revision and test | Free quiz |
| Days 8–9 | Dilution | Dilution |
| Days 10–11 | Drops and infusion rates | Drip rates and infusion rates |
| Day 12 | Daily dose, weight and body surface area | Daily dose and timing and dose per kg |
| Day 13 | Mixed test, against the clock | Practice questions |
| Day 14 | Analyse your mistakes and put them right | Drug calculation tips |
How to make practice effective
Work it out yourself first
Do not look at the solution until you have had a go. The attempt is what makes you learn.
Use a calculator from the start
Practise with the same tool you will have in your assessment, so the keys become familiar.
Write down your working
Then you can see where it went wrong, and showing your working is what earns marks.
Keep a record of your mistakes
Note which topic each mistake belongs to. The pattern shows what to practise more.
Mix the topics in the last few days
In an assessment you will not know which topic comes next.
Frequently asked questions
How do you practise drug calculations?+
Work through questions yourself, one topic at a time, with a calculator and your working written down. Keep a record of your mistakes and mix topics before your assessment.
How long does it take to practise drug calculations?+
It varies. Many people need a few weeks of regular practice. The plan on this page runs over 14 days.
Which topic should I start with?+
Start with unit conversion and dosage calculations. All the other topics build on them.
Is there an app for practising?+
Yes. Dos has practice tests of ten questions, with a calculator next to each question.
Make the plan easier with Dos
One test a day of ten questions, with a calculator next to each question. The statistics show which topics to spend your days on.
