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Preparation for the medical college assessment test remains significant. MCAT stands as a computer-based exam and was created to evaluate your knowledge of biological and physical sciences, your writing skills, and your verbal reasoning. A student’s MCAT prep determines whether they will pass or fail, which is why it is very important that the student prepare accordingly. However, most students fail or obtain low scores on their first MCAT due to varying factors. These reasons may include:
Focusing on Some Subjects More Than Others
Four main components make up the MCAT: Behavioral Science, Chemical and Physical Foundation, Critical Analysis, and Biochemical and Biological foundation. Every component is equally important and will play a major part in the overall grade. It is therefore important to concentrate on all the four parts without neglecting any sections to achieve the desired marks. Every person would love a specific subject in their study to be the main focus, however, one should resist the urge to concentrate on the specific areas they are already strong in while neglecting the others.
Studying all sections equally ensures balance and ensures a student performs well and obtains high scores in their exams. Students need to study for every component of the exam so that they have better chances of passing their MCAT.
Inadequate Simulation of the Real Exam
The MCAT exam is important and taking the time to practice remains vital. One should not just solve the problems but should instead take time to simulate the actual exam. This translates to timing yourself on different subjects, and taking lunch and bathroom breaks only during allocated times. That way you will feel more comfortable during their official MCAT exam as it would be the same as your daily routine. An important part of your MCAT prep should also involve taking practice exams, and by timing yourself during practice the same way the real exam will be timed, you’ll be less likely to panic come exam day.
Poor Grasp of Reading Materials
One of the most difficult things on the MCAT is the breadth of the material. Specifically, the understanding of the four important aspects of the exam. Despite the material needed for the exam, one needs to grasp and master the material they cover on a daily basis in their classes. The student needs to know the material inside and out. For an individual to properly grasp the material, they need thoroughness and good review skills.
Neglecting Weak Areas
Such areas always arise in our studies and a student needs to put more focus on them. Doing well and passing in the weak areas will ensure that a student gets high scores. However, only practicing the parts that you are already good at won’t help to boost your score. When the weaker areas remain neglected, the student will undoubtedly continue to score poorly. The surest way of improving the grade will arise through focusing on the weak areas and working on them.
Incorrect Practice and Review
Reviewing your practice tests remains just as important as taking the tests. Therefore, the time spent on taking a test should match the time taken to review that test. The review brings to light issues like what the student thought and breaks down every component to allow and enhance understanding. Ignoring this step prevents the student from correcting their approach to specific questions and will eventually lead to a low score on the official exam.
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This content is sponsored by Eliza Nimmich.
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