This document provides guidance on taking a thorough medical history. It outlines the key components of a medical history, including identifying data, chief complaint, present illness, past medical history, family history, social history, and review of systems. The present illness section should provide a chronological account of the patient's symptoms and issues that prompted them to seek care. Gathering detailed information about symptoms, such as location, quality, timing and exacerbating/relieving factors is important for diagnosis. A comprehensive history helps health workers understand the patient's perspective and identify pertinent medical factors.