CurveballBeginnerMMI station
Three patients arrive: one an hour early, one an hour late, one on time. Who do you see first?
Curveball: Unexpected or playful questions that test how you think on your feet.
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Sample answer outline
- Ask for the missing information: is anyone sick? Clinical urgency outranks arrival time.
- If all three are stable, see the on-time patient first. It is fair and keeps the schedule.
- Fit in the early patient if a slot opens, and see the late patient if time allows, or rebook them kindly.
- Tell everyone waiting what to expect.
What makes it work
- Asking about urgency first shows clinical instinct.
- It turns a trick question into a clear rule: need first, then fairness.
How to approach curveball questions
- Take a breath. There is usually no right answer.
- Give a genuine answer quickly, then one reason that shows something about you.
- If it's a puzzle, ask a clarifying question and reason out loud.
- Keep it light and short.
What it tests
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Say it out loud
Confetto's AI interviewer asks you this question, follows up like a real interviewer and gives feedback on your answer.
Practice this question now7-day free trial