OSCEs are practical exams at Med School where students get supervised doing examinations and taking history on volunteers/ actor patients and get assessed on these competencies that are key for a doctor. These can be quite stressful and daunting for students- especially if you're not sure how to best prepare for them. But don't worry, I've got some tips for you!
Preparation is really important for OSCEs as they are quite different to other exams. I would suggest for you to be organised and have a plan of action, going step by step, starting early and studying regularly! Hope you find this article helpful and let me know if you have any questions!
Step 1: Learn/ revise the content
I always start with making a list of topics I need to learn and have a timetable of which day I am going to go over which topic.
For each topic, I like reading the related textbook/lecture chapter first, where they go over all the steps in order for each history and physical examination. Then it’s up to you if you want to make your own revision cards or own notes, or if you keep the handouts, uni slides or textbook information. Whichever format you use make sure you have everything in the same place so you can go through them often when you revise.
Resources I recommend (not sponsored)
Simple OSCE website
Geeky Medics YouTube and website
OSCE stop website
Step 2: Practice the skills
This is a really key step! After having learnt the steps and watched videos to know the theory now is the time to put everything into practice!
At the beginning aim to just practise the steps and patient manner, then later start putting yourself in exam conditions with a timer and someone actually marking you.