MRCP PACES
MRCP PACES is a very difficult practical examination because the overall pass rate is below 50%. I passed PACES on my first attempt and got 157 out of 172. If being an IMG and non-native English speaker I can do this then there is no reason for you not to be able to pass it. However, if you are completely new to the PACES preparation then I recommend you to watch the following video to get familiar with the examination structure.
It takes time to prepare for the PACES examinations, especially for those who are like me, who have never faced an NHS examiner before. Here, I am going to give you some important tips to race through the PACES.
What to do?
- Please try to find out the appropriate study materials as early as possible. There are many books, videos, podcasts, and courses out there. It might be difficult for you to find out the right materials. You have to do some research to identify the resources right for you.
- Do an online course. Try to find out a PACES mentor as early as possible. The mentor will guide you on how to approach each of the stations and how to gather all skills necessary in PACES. Your mentor should also tell you what cases are the most important ones. If you are not aware of any good online PACES courses then you can have a look at my course. My course link: The best MRCP PACES Course.
- Make a study partner. You need to practice the examination sequences, history taking, and communication skills with your study partner. You have to practice talking with a surrogate without using a medical jargon. It is very difficult to find out your own mistakes if a partner is not pointing them out to you.
- There are many good PACES resources available on YouTube and SoundCloud. You should try to search for those resources.
- If you work in the UK then you can ask for help from your consultant and PACES examiners. But they are very busy people, so, don’t expect much from them.
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What not to do?
- Don’t be too bookish. After all, it is a practical examination where you have to demonstrate your skills. At least 60% of your afford should go into practicing the PACES skills. You have already gathered enough textbook knowledge from MRCP part 1 and part 2.
- There is a book called Great Golden Guide. Don’t read this book. This book is a complete waste of time. Instead, read a few renowned PACES books and you would find out which cases are important and which are not. I recommend my own collection of books in my PACES course.
- Don’t study till the last minute. Try to minimize your stress level during the examination. Don’t appear late for the examination. If your home is too far from the examination center then book a hotel near the exam center and check-in 2 days ago. In the last 2 days, have had enough sleep and relaxation.
- Don’t be depressed if you fail the examination even after giving your 100 %. Remember, the majority fails in the first attempt so don’t be dishurted. Take the test again after six months with a better preparation.
My English is not good, what can I do?
A lot of IMGs asked me this question. PACES is not an English-speaking test. You don’t need to have a British accent. If you are able to make the examiners understand what you are saying then you are good to go. I am not a native English speaker but I got 16 out of 16 in the communication station. So, don’t think too much about your English speaking skills.
Can you recommend any PACES books?
You need to select the PACES books according to your skill level. But there are some good general recommendations:
Also, try to briefly read the MRCP Part 2 books as well to rejuvenate a lot of forgotten memories.
