While you are looking at getting the appropriate strategy to adopt in the race for flying in colours, there is pertinent need to figure out what are or is the Best subject to start studying for MCAT exams.
It goes beyond just a question, it is a positive indication that excellence is a priority, not an option! Achieving a high MCAT score takes hard work and preparation. MCAT prep starts with choosing classes that teach you content you’ll see on the exam. A lot of MCAT content is taught in college-level science courses.
Based on a recent AAMC survey, applicants reported studying for three months on average for 20 hours weekly. This works out to approximately 240 hours of MCAT prep time.
The MCAT exams
As an exam that is designed to assess problem solving, critical thinking, written analysis and knowledge of scientific concepts and principles, the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a computer-based standardized examination for prospective medical students in the United States, Australia, Canada, and the Caribbean Islands.
Historically, the MCAT was created in 1928 by the Association of American Medical Colleges for one purpose: admissions to medical colleges (primarily in the U.S. and Canada).
In the 1920s, there was a great influx of med school dropout rates (5 to 50%). This led to the development of the MCAT, a test that measures readiness for medical school.
The test went through multiple different phases as times changed. The most recent change was released five years ago.
The largest changes in the exam consist of psychology, sociology, and biochemistry concepts. Biochemistry was added because survey results showed these concepts to be one of the determining aspects for success in medical school curricula.
The addition of cultural and behavioral material was also recommended in the last decade to provide a solid foundation for learning this material in med school.
The Exam Format
The MCAT consists of four distinct sections that are individually scored.
Each section is allotted either 90 or 95 minutes and tests between 50 and 60 questions.
The full examination lasts approximately 7+1⁄2 hours including breaks.
The information for each of the science sections is organized into 10 foundational concepts and four Scientific Inquiry & Reasoning Skills.
Best Subject to Start Studying for MCAT
One of the very strategic ways of passing the MCAT exams successfully is knowing what subject to study very perfectly prior to the time scheduled for it.
Preparing for the MCAT includes having a well-rounded undergraduate education. You should have a broad education and include the humanities, accounting, psychology, and literature, which will help you with MCAT prep in the four core test sections.
These subjects include:
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- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
- Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
- Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior
- Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
As you take these science courses, practice applying the concepts you’re learning, you can start by using the challenge questions often included at the end of your textbook chapters.
Note: When preparing for the MCAT, make sure you also get the support you need from a study partner or group, an online forum, or a trusted professor or advisor, all of whom might be able to help you better understand a concept that’s just not sticking.
How to Excel in Your MCAT Exams
Here are few things to do to fly in colours in the MCAT exams:
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Get Familiar with the MCAT
The first step is to understand what the MCAT is, says Sierra. The MCAT is a standardized, multiple-choice, computer-based test that has been a part of the medical school admissions process for more than 90 years, according to the American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC).
Nearly all medical schools in the United States and several in Canada require MCAT scores, and many schools and graduate programs now accept MCAT scores in lieu of other standardized tests. The MCAT exam tests you on the skills and knowledge that medical educators, physicians, medical students and residents have identified as key prerequisites for success in medical school and practicing medicine.
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Select Undergraduate Courses Wisely
Many pre-med students think they should cram in science classes, and take multiple science classes in one semester. It’s good to major in a field that relates to the kind of doctor you want to become, but it’s also important not to overload yourself on one subject.
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Sit MCAT Prep Early
When should you start preparing for the MCAT? The answer depends on the strength of your MCAT study skills, but the AAMC recommends that the average pre-med student spend between 300 and 350 hours over several months on MCAT prep. Remember the rule of three (months) – the general rule of thumb is that you’ll need to dedicate about three months studying for the MCAT.
It is important to start your MCAT prep well in advance, which will give you plenty of time to master the core concepts. While you may have scored favorably on standardized tests for undergraduate admission—the American College Test (ACT) or Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)—the MCAT is a totally different challenge.
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Have Comfortable Study Schedule
As you wonder how to start studying for the MCAT, remember to keep your learning style at the forefront. Everyone has a different study routine for MCAT test prep, from flashcards to concept maps to study groups, but the most important thing is to gain a deep understanding of concepts you may be tested on so that you can apply that knowledge.
Memorization won’t work. Comprehension is truly the name of the MCAT prep game. Make sure to also schedule time to review content you’ve already studied to continue to reinforce these topics over time. Creating a study plan schedule can help you maximize your time, and stay on track for your test date.
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Be Frequent with Practice Questions
Once you’ve got a firm grasp on the concepts, start to look at MCAT practice exams and questions. Practice problems are a great way to determine if you are ready to sit for the test.
You should also take full-length practice exams to ensure you have the stamina for the actual test day. When you take your practice tests, try to mimic the testing environment as much as possible. For example, if you plan on taking the MCAT at 8 am on test day, take your practice exam at 8 am, too.
