📅 How to Structure a 6-Month Study Plan for the AMC Clinical Exam

The AMC Clinical Examination tests communication, clinical reasoning, and practical management across multiple stations. A six-month structured study plan ensures systematic coverage, steady progress, and exam readiness.

🔹 Month 1–2: Build the Foundation

• Understand the Exam Format

  • 16 stations (14 scored, 2 pilot).

  • Focus: history, examination, counselling, emergency management.

• Review Core Resources

  • Talley & O’Connor’s Clinical Examination.

  • AMC Clinical Handbook.

• Start Systematic Revision

  • Go through one body system per week (Cardio, Resp, Neuro, GI, Endocrine, Paeds, Psych, O&G).

• Begin Practice

  • Join/organise small study groups.

  • Start role-playing stations with peers.

🔹 Month 3–4: Case-Based Practice

• Daily Practice: At least 2–3 cases per session.

• Use Recall Scenarios (commonly shared by past candidates).

• Develop Key Skills:

  • Focused history taking.

  • Clear structure in short clinical exams.

  • Communication skills (breaking bad news, counselling).

• Seek Feedback: Record sessions or get peer/tutor feedback.

🔹 Month 5: Mock Exam Focus

• Simulate Exam Conditions

  • Full 14–16 stations in one sitting.

  • Strict time management (2 minutes reading, 8 minutes performance).

• Identify Weak Areas

  • Emergencies (e.g., anaphylaxis, seizure).

  • Psych/ethics stations (consent, confidentiality).

  • Paediatrics & O&G scenarios.

• Refine Strategies

  • Use checklists to avoid missing steps.

  • Improve fluency and confidence.

🔹 Month 6: Final Preparation & Confidence Building

• Focus on High-Yield Topics:

  • Paediatrics, Psychiatry, Emergency, Cardiology, O&G.

• Polish Communication:

  • Practice empathy, reassurance, and clear explanations.

• Last 2 Weeks:

  • Short, structured daily revision.

  • Light practice of 1–2 stations per day.

  • Avoid overloading yourself with new material.

✅ Key Tips for Success

• Practice out loud, not silently.

• Always think: What is the examiner testing here?

• Prioritise safety and patient-centred care.

• Use Australian guidelines (eTG, RACGP) in management answers.

🗝️ Bottom Line

A six-month structured approach—foundation study, case-based practice, full mock exams, and focused final review—gives the best chance of passing the AMC Clinical Exam. Consistency and communication skills are as important as knowledge.