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MRCP PACES is the last step you need to successfully complete in order to achieve the highly prestigious ‘MRCP’ postnominal. It is the practical part of the MRCP exams, and it is not just about what you know, but how well you think, examine, communicate, and make decisions in front of examiners.
Even the most experienced and well-prepared candidates stumble at this stage. Not due to lack of knowledge, but due to some avoidable mistakes. Here are the top 10 mistakes that you should watch out for.
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Not understanding the PACES format
MRCP PACES has five stations, and each has different objectives. Not knowing what to expect at each station sets you up for failure.
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Neglecting practice with real patients
Reading alone will not help, as it is a practical exam. Hands-on practice with real or simulated patients is essential for improving examination skills.
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Poor time management during stations
Each station has a fixed timeframe. Candidates often rush or waste time. Practise pacing your approach within the allotted time.
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Weak communication skills
This is a core part of PACES. Clinical knowledge alone isn’t enough. Learn to communicate clearly, empathetically, and confidently.
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Inconsistent peer practice
Practising alone limits feedback. Group study or live circuits with peers provides valuable insight and correction.
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Not using feedback effectively
Ignoring feedback or failing to work on weak areas leads to repeated mistakes. Use every mock and session to improve.
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Lack of structure in examinations
Disorganised approaches to history taking or examinations confuse both you and the examiner. Learn and stick to structured methods.
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Overlooking ethics and professionalism
Ethical reasoning and professional behaviour are evaluated throughout the MRCP PACES exam. Practise ethical scenarios just as seriously as clinical ones.
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Underestimating common conditions
Many candidates focus only on rare cases. Common clinical findings are frequently tested. So, be thorough with the basics.
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Waiting too long to start practice
Last-minute preparation does not work for PACES. Start early, practise consistently, and build confidence over time.
That’s all about the common mistakes you need to watch out for while preparing for the final hurdle of MRCP. If you are an MRCP PACES aspirant targeting the upcoming exam, we offer various short and long-term MRCP courses, led by expert mentors, to help you clear the exam in one go. In addition, we offer 2-day live circuit courses that replicate real exam scenarios with expert examiners and role players.
You can even explore our premium study materials, curated by our mentors team, via StudyMEDIC LMS 3.0 completely free before you enrol.
Connect with our team today to know more about our courses.
Authored By: Sarath
By : Admin
