I’m not sure how it happens, but most of us know about the MCAT super early. Many times, we’re not even officially premeds before we have our first stress dream about it!
Despite this, many students miss critical MCAT knowledge, or worse, they end up with flat-out wrong information. So, I’m going to tell you some of the things I wish I had known before I took my MCAT exam.
1. Don’t Underestimate Your Prep Time
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is underestimating how LONG it takes to prepare for the MCAT. Ideally, you should start four to six months in advance.
Create a detailed MCAT study schedule that outlines what topics you’ll be covering each week. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks, focusing on both content review and practice questions.
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2. Don’t Skip Full-length MCAT Practice Tests
Full-length practice exams are critical to your MCAT prep. They’re one of the few opportunities you get to simulate the exam, so don’t waste them.
Take them under realistic test-like conditions. Your goal should be to complete at least six practice full-length exams before your actual MCAT test date.
Don’t get upset at your practice exam scores. Use them as diagnostic tools to identify your weaknesses to maximize your score gains.
3. Don’t Fight CARS
The CARS section is often challenging for students because it requires a different kind of thinking. You can’t rely on rote memorization here; instead, focus on improving your critical reading and analytical skills. Emphasis on SKILLS.
Nobody was born literate. We all had to learn how to get here. CARS is just a different kind of reading, and you have to learn what the AAMC is looking for in order to get the questions correct.
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4. Don’t Focus Solely on Content Review
Next, oftentimes we hyper-focus on content review because we feel like we don’t “know enough” to do well on the exam.
Is content review overrated? No, but while content review is essential, it doesn’t have to be video modules or textbooks. Every time you complete practice questions and review your work, it’s an opportunity to do “content review”.
Teach yourself the material as you review your answers. Don’t just focus on the score. Make sure you can answer the question correctly, on your own, before moving on.
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5. Take Care of Yourself
This MCAT tip gets a lot of eye-rolls, but it’s just as important as everything else!
I was very much of the grind mindset. I kept pushing myself even when I was miserable, and my MCAT score kept going down. I didn’t think it was real, but I was in the process of burning out.
Once I adopted a much more reasonable mindset and attitude toward the exam, my stress levels went down and my score went up.
Don’t ignore your mental or physical health. They’re just as important as getting through all your content review.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! Don’t make the same mistakes I and many other MCAT students before you did. Keep these MCAT tips in mind when preparing for the MCAT and you’ll be on your way to success.
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