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MRCP PACES (Practical Assessment of Clinical Examination Skills) is the third and last step in the journey towards the MRCP qualification and arguably the most challenging one. Unlike the theory parts of MRCP, this exam is clinical, which tests real-world skills, like communication, examination, professionalism, and clinical judgement.

So, structured practice and the right strategies are very important to meet examiner expectations and thus clear the exam in one go. Here we will share some essential tips and guidelines to help you prepare smartly for MRCP PACES.

Understand the exam format

The exam is based on five stations, which include 8 patient encounters, that test seven core skills. First of all, you must go through the MRCP PACES blueprint and examiners’ marking criteria. These guidelines explain exactly what the examiners look for.

Systematic clinical examination techniques

You must perform examinations in a logical, consistent, and examiner-friendly way. Try to practice these skills regularly with real or simulated patients and ensure your approach is aligned with what’s described in the PACES guidelines.

Communication and ethical reasoning

Communication stations can be unpredictable. Practice explaining diagnoses with clarity and confidence, delivering difficult news, and managing ethical dilemmas. Following ‘GMC Good Medical Practice’ and ‘PACES guidance notes for candidates’ will be very useful to make sure that your responses are structured and empathetic.

Time management

Each station has specific durations. Practice within the time limits to improve your ability to prioritise and deliver relevant information efficiently. It is an important aspect evaluated by examiners as per the assessment criteria.

Reflective practice

Reflect on your performance after each practice session or mock using the MRCP PACES marking domains. Identify areas where you need improvement and track your development.

Overall, aligning your preparation with MRCP (UK) guidelines ensures that you stay on the right track. Clearing MRCP PACES is within reach with consistent effort, proper mentorship, and strategic planning.

At StudyMRCP, we offer all this and a lot more through our expert-led MRCP PACES preparation courses. We have short and long-term MRCP courses that can seamlessly fit into your busy schedules. And the best part is our success rate stands at 97%. You can explore our high-quality study materials, curated by expert mentors, through the StudyMEDIC LMS 3.0 completely free before you enrol.

Want to know more about our courses? Connect with our team today.

Authored By: Sarath