How to prepare for MRCP PACES Station 2? 
Station 2 is the easiest station for most candidates. However, some overseas candidates may struggle a bit mainly because of language barrier. How should we practise?
Structure is very important. You should approach station 2 systematically, meaning that you should go from chief complaint, history of presenting complaint, past medical history, past surgical history and so on.
Ryder and Freeman (An Aid to the MRCP PACES) is a great book to practise Station 2. Try to practise those scenarios with a friend. Try to think of differential diagnosis, investigations, and management plans. Getting the diagnosis is not the only important matter. The examiners are looking for the approach and your thinking process too.
Watch online videos and practise as much as you can.
You have 5 minutes outside the room for preparation. Make good use of it. Write down the patient’s name, age, your role and all the important points. Write down the backbone of your history taking and also the possible differentials.
Don’t forget things like social history and offer help, personal history and advise to stop smoking and reduce alcohol intake. Don’t forget travel history and ask in details if necessary.
Avoid jargons. Never assume that they would know simple medical terms.
Do not forget asking patient’s concerns. Many people fail by this skill. Try to wrap up your history taking when 2 mins alert is up, and quickly ask concerns. Be honest if you do not know how to answer the patient’s questions. Do not make promises which you cannot keep. Always consider involving seniors or other specialties.
Tips for overseas candidates: try to speak English while you are practising with your friends. Make it a habit so that you will be smooth during the exam.
Finally, sympathy and empathy are the most important skills. Show the examiners that you are a safe and considerate doctor, and with good knowledge and practice, you will get full marks in Station 2.