ABR Radiation Oncology study plan

Build a one-page formula sheet covering photon and electron dosimetry, inverse square, and PDD/TMR relationships from memory

Derive and explain percent depth dose versus TMR conversions and when each is valid

Sketch and label a linear accelerator beamline from electron gun through flattening filter and target

Solve 10 photon and electron monitor-unit calculations without notes

Explain treatment planning algorithms (pencil beam, superposition/convolution, Monte Carlo) and state their limitations

Compare 3D conformal, IMRT, VMAT, and SBRT in terms of planning and delivery constraints

Describe QA programs for linacs, including daily, monthly, and annual test categories

Interpret a DVH and identify plan-quality metrics for target and OAR coverage

Explain brachytherapy source calibration, dose specification, and TG-43 formalism

Describe radiation protection principles, dose limits, and shielding concepts for staff and public

Summarize targeted and immunologic agents that modify radiation response

Connect DNA damage response pathways to radiosensitization strategies

Draw and explain the classic radiation survival curve and its parameters

Compare the linear-quadratic model with alternative models and state where each breaks down

Calculate BED and EQD2 for at least 5 fractionation schemes

Explain the 4 R's of radiobiology and their clinical relevance

Describe acute versus late normal tissue effects and the volume and fractionation dependence of each

Summarize mechanisms of hypoxia, reoxygenation, and their therapeutic targeting

Explain tumor heterogeneity, stem cells, and radioresistance mechanisms

Interpret key preclinical and clinical radiobiology trials that shaped practice

Outline workup, staging, and treatment approaches for breast, prostate, and lung cancers

Explain target volume definitions and margin concepts for common disease sites

Describe acute and late toxicities and their management for those sites

Compare definitive, adjuvant, and palliative treatment intents with supporting evidence

Outline workup, staging, and treatment for head and neck, GI, and CNS tumors

Explain the role of concurrent chemotherapy and evidence for common regimens

Describe palliative radiotherapy indications and dose-fractionation options

Summarize pediatric and reirradiation considerations

Complete a timed 100-question mixed-domain practice set and score it by domain

Review every missed item and write a one-sentence correction for each

Re-derive the 5 formulas you most often missed and re-solve related problems

Build a final one-page high-yield review sheet covering all three domains