I actually found the FAA check rides that I've done relatively difficult - mainly because of interference from well-wishing examiners who start pratting about with stuff during the trip. Blowing my whole perspective on situational awareness.
One must learn to tune this extra distraction out.
Actually, I had one of these FAA inspectors for my original issue of an ATPL in the mid-sixties.
Two FAA inspectors actually.
One air carrier guy to watch the general aviation guy....who watched me.
The air carrier inspector was moaning about how I had not supplied a DC-6 instead of an AeroCommander.
I managed to bypass the DC-6 and bring him a Lockheed Constellation two years later.