The Dos And Don'ts Of Studying For The MCAT

4 April 2018

Jaime Allen

If you are studying with the hopes of becoming a medical professional, you will likely be taking the MCAT in the future. The truth is that you can never begin preparing too soon.

There is no doubt that the MCAT is a difficult test. Anybody who accomplishes this undertaking is certainly ambitious. In your quest to pass this test, make sure to pay close attention to effective and ineffective study strategies so that you perform your best on the big day.

Do

Do study by taking practice exams in one sitting (at least sometimes). You should try to replicate the experience of taking the exam at least a few times before the actual test so you can see how well you can expect to perform.

Do take the time to memorize pertinent information, including important formulas and concepts. You need not focus on memorizing everything, but keep in mind that memorization does encompass many test questions.

Do branch out into less common means of study, like recording your voice. You can play your recordings when you are unable to read, and the contents will stick with you.

Do study in groups or with partners. Find other test-takers you can study with to emphasize the material.

Do find ways to bridge concepts. The material is anything but isolated, and your studying should be the same.

Do learn how to write a solid essay. Understand how to create a main point followed by carefully curated supporting points.

Do hone your reading skills. Reading comprehension is a major component of taking the test, and you certainly do not want to miss an important instruction due to skimming.

Do Not

Do not get so stuck on memorization that you forget the practical application of the material. You should know why the concepts are important and how they apply to the medical field.

Do not always study under the best conditions. It is beneficial to study in silence at times, but the test will not necessarily be a comfortable space. Be prepared to take the exam in any number of conditions.

Do not forget to shuffle your flashcards regularly. Failing to shuffle your cards means that you might be memorizing the order of your answers rather than the content of the cards themselves.

The MCAT is difficult, and there is no shame in considering a private MCAT tutoring service to help you manage your studying. Tutors are available all over the nation, and they are prepared to assist you in your preparations.

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