Five Mini-Scenarios Every AMC Candidate Should Practise

If you’re preparing for the AMC Clinical Exam, you’ve probably already practised dozens of full-length cases. But here’s something you may not have tried: short, focused mini-scenarios that reflect some of the most common themes — the ones where candidates often gain or lose valuable marks.

As a former National College Examiner, I can tell you: it’s not always the complex, obscure cases that catch people out. It’s the simple ones — the ones that test communication, judgement, and safety — that separate the good from the great.

Here are five mini-scenarios you can practise (with a friend, a mirror, or even your dog), each with a specific skill focus:

Scenario 1: The Angry Parent (Communication & Conflict Resolution) 

A mother storms into the room. Her child was seen yesterday for a sore throat but was not given antibiotics. “Now he’s worse! Why didn’t you treat him properly?”

What to practise: 

- De-escalation and active listening 

- Empathy without becoming defensive 

- Clear explanation of viral vs bacterial illness 

- Safety-netting and appropriate follow-up

Why this matters: Communication under pressure is a core skill, and how you handle frustration can make or break the case.

Scenario 2: The New Diagnosis of Diabetes (Education & Lifestyle Counselling) 

A 48-year-old man has just been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. He’s shocked and says, “But I feel fine. Do I really need medication?”

What to practise: 

- Explaining chronic disease in simple terms 

- The role of diet, exercise, and weight loss 

- When and why medication may be needed 

- Collaborative decision-making

Why this matters: Patient-centred care means meeting people where they are, not lecturing them. Examiners love to see shared decision-making in action.

Scenario 3: The Toddler with a Fever (Safety, Red Flags & Parental Reassurance) 

A 2-year-old has had a fever for 24 hours. The parent is worried about meningitis but there are no red flags in history or exam.

What to practise: 

- Clear, structured approach to fever in children 

- Spotting danger signs vs reassuring signs 

- Explaining what to watch for at home 

- Clear documentation and follow-up advice

Why this matters: These cases test clinical reasoning and reassurance skills — and the ability to avoid unnecessary investigations.

Scenario 4: The Woman with Vaginal Discharge (Sensitive History-Taking & STI Discussion) 

A 29-year-old presents with vaginal discharge and is concerned about a possible infection. She is anxious and reluctant to give details.

What to practise: 

- Taking a non-judgemental, trauma-informed sexual history 

- Normalising the discussion (“Many people experience this…”) 

- Discussing STI screening and confidentiality 

- Safety-netting for serious infections and partner treatment

Why this matters: Examiners watch closely for professionalism and sensitivity in sexual health scenarios. Don’t rush, don’t assume.

Scenario 5: The Sudden Collapse (Emergency Recognition & Prioritisation) 

A 67-year-old man collapses in the waiting room. The nurse calls you over. He is pale, sweaty, and complaining of chest pain.

What to practise: 

- Immediate ABCDE approach 

- Calling for help, oxygen, ECG, IV access, monitoring 

- Provisional diagnosis (e.g., acute coronary syndrome) 

- Safe and sensible plan before transfer

Why this matters: You don’t need to “treat” the whole thing — just show that you recognise an emergency and act appropriately. Marks are awarded for safe thinking, not fancy heroics.

Final Tip: Practise the Thinking, Not Just the Talking 

Use these mini-scenarios to rehearse your clinical reasoning, not just your speech. Pause after each one and ask yourself: 

- Was my approach logical and patient-centred? 

- Did I explain things clearly? 

- Did I show that I was safe?

Because in the exam — and in practice — that’s what really matters.