Strategies for Standardized Tests and Mastering the MCAT

Introduction

• Session Title: Strategies for standardized tests and mastering the MCAT exam and beyond.
• Speakers: LaShawn Sturgis (Assistant Dean for Academic Advising at the Medical College of Georgia), Dr. Siobhan Nguyen, a first-year medical student.

Importance of a Growth Mindset

• Essential for improving test-taking abilities.
• Reframe the narrative around being a "bad test taker".
• Belief in your ability is crucial for success.

Test-Taking Skills

• Test-taking is a learnable skill, similar to medical procedures like suturing.
• These skills are useful for all exams in medical school and beyond.
• Emphasizes continuous improvement and resilience.

Understanding the Purpose of the MCAT

• Tests critical thinking and application skills.
• Different from K-16 exams, the MCAT focuses on "best answer" questions.
• Prepares students for medical school by emphasizing critical thinking.

Medical School and Assessment

• Continuous assessment through quizzes, exams, self-testing, feedback, and self-reflection.
• Emphasis on growth and resilience rather than perfection.

Study Strategies for the MCAT

Creating a Study Plan

• Use resources like the AAMC’s guide on creating a study plan.
• Understand what's on the MCAT and required coursework.
• Ensure you’ve taken necessary prerequisites or allocate more time for content you haven't learned.

Time Management

• Common Mistake: Not allocating enough time for MCAT preparation.
• Balance MCAT study with other commitments.
• Consider taking time off other activities.

Review vs. Learning

• Review: Brush up on previously learned material.
• Learning: New or unfamiliar material.
• Use diagnostic exams to assess and differentiate between the two.

Practice Questions

• Aim for completing around 3,500 practice questions.
• Utilize spaced repetition techniques to enhance memory retention.
• Engage in retrieval practice to enhance learning and strengthen recall.

Managing Test Anxiety

• Control anxiety by practicing under timed conditions in different environments.
• Avoid changing answers based on emotions.

Panel Discussion with First-Year Medical Student

• Importance of confidence and self-belief in test-taking.
• Study habits developed during MCAT prep aid in medical school.
• Practice and self-reflection are crucial for improvement.

General Tips

• Maintain balance and avoid burnout by incorporating breaks and personal time.
• Utilize resources like Anki for spaced repetition.
• Understand that failure and mistakes are part of the learning process.

Final Thoughts

• Embrace self-reflection and the ability to adapt and change strategies.
• Continuous practice and preparation build confidence.
• Each exam is a stepping stone to improving skills required for a medical career.