How to score well on interpersonal skills in PLAB 2 / PRES 3

Strong clinical knowledge won't carry you if you lose the Interpersonal Skills domain. The good news: these marks are learnable and largely within your control.

Open with rapport

Introduce yourself, confirm who you're speaking to, and acknowledge how they're feeling. A simple "That sounds really worrying" early on changes the whole station.

Use plain language

Drop the jargon. "A clot on the lung" beats "pulmonary embolism" with a frightened patient. Check understanding with a gentle "Does that make sense so far?"

Show empathy at the right moments

Name and respond to emotion when it appears. Empathy isn't a box to tick once — it's woven through the consultation.

Share control

Ask about the patient's ideas, concerns, and expectations (ICE). Offer choices. Bring family in where appropriate. Examiners reward a partnership, not a lecture.

Close safely and kindly

Summarise, agree a plan, safety-net clearly, and check if they have questions.

Rehearse the human part too

You can practise tone and structure against an AI patient that stays in character. Try a station free, no signup.

General exam guidance only — not medical advice.