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Julie Leff

Conquering the MCAT: Self-Study Strategies for Success




This guide is designed to give strategies to students who are determined to ace the MCAT through self- study. Remember, the most effective approach is unique to you. Some thrive with the structure of a prep course, while others excel at standardized tests. The ideal timeframe also varies – expect 2-6 months based on your academic foundation.


Building a Strong Foundation (1-2 Months):

  • Content Review: Explore resources like Kaplan review books and the newly released UWorld review books. Compare them to find the best fit for your learning style.

Sharpening Your Skills (2-4 Months):

  • Question Banks: Dive deep into UWorld's question bank, known for mirroring the real exam's difficulty, and the AAMC section banks. Daily practice is highly recommended.

Simulating Test Day (Throughout Your Prep):

  • Practice Tests: Take AAMC practice exams under realistic conditions – public setting, designated start time, and scheduled breaks. Building stamina is crucial for this marathon exam.

Mastering the Art of Review (Throughout Your Prep):

  • Analyze Every Question: Review each practice test question, especially those you missed. Identify patterns in how questions are phrased. Remember, the MCAT emphasizes critical reasoning and data interpretation, not rote memorization. Use this analysis to pinpoint knowledge gaps. Analyzing questions should take as long as the exam itself. This is where true score improvement happens.

Taking the MCAT: Strategic Planning

  • Target Score Not Met? Reschedule: Don't rush into the exam unprepared. A low score reflects poorly on your judgment and may be averaged with a potential retake score by some schools. Delaying the test until you're fully ready showcases thoroughness and sound decision-making.

Remember: There's no one-size-fits-all approach. If you find alternative materials that resonate more with you, embrace them! The key is to personalize your study journey for maximum impact.


Additional Support:

For personalized guidance on your pre-med journey, including undergraduate premed planning and complete medical school application advising, contact us today!



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