Overview
This lecture outlines an effective MCAT study schedule, recommended resources, and exam strategies that led to a 100th percentile score, including practical tips for study plans, materials, and test day preparation.
Study Timeline & Planning
- Typical MCAT prep period spans around 3 months (May to August in the example).
- MCAT prep can be adjusted to fit individual schedules, including gap years.
- MCAT study is often divided into content review/self-study and hard prep (practice exams/question banks).
- One and a half months were spent on content review, followed by practice exams and question banks.
Study Resources & Techniques
- Used the Kaplan seven-book set for content review.
- Prioritized studying less familiar topics first (e.g., started with Psychology/Sociology).
- Passive review techniques included hand-written notes for retention.
- Used Anki flashcards, especially effective for Psychology/Sociology.
- For Organic Chemistry, supplemented with YouTube (AK Lectures) due to difficulty with book explanations.
- For CARS section, used Jack Weston's materials and Khan Academy (partnered with AAMC).
- Third-party practice questions are helpful for speed and vocabulary, but AAMC questions are most representative.
Practice Exams & Question Banks
- July and August focused on practice exams and question banks (Blueprint, Kaplan, Princeton Review, UWorld).
- Blueprint exams (six-exam set) and free practice tests from Kaplan and Princeton Review were used.
- UWorld subscription provided MCAT-style questions with detailed explanations.
- Review all practice questions, correct and incorrect, for maximum improvement.
Exam Strategy & Review
- Always start with a diagnostic exam to set a baseline and goals (initial score: 506).
- Review of practice exams is more important than just taking them; dedicate time to thoroughly review.
- Simulate test conditions, including wearing a mask if required.
- Use a Google Doc or spreadsheet to track new concepts learned from question banks and exams.
- Improving exam stamina and test-taking endurance is crucial for the 7+ hour MCAT.
Test Day Preparation & Tips
- Adjust sleep schedule a week before to match test day timing.
- Bring food for breaks; avoid new foods or products that could cause adverse reactions.
- Extra precautions include not using unfamiliar lotions or makeup on exam day.
Reflective Advice
- Would have used Anki earlier for more active recall.
- Social and online forums (Reddit, SDN) can provide helpful explanations and community support.
- Adjust the plan to fit personal needs and circumstances; not all advice suits everyone.
Key Terms & Definitions
- MCAT — Medical College Admission Test, a standardized test for medical school admission.
- Content Review — Studying books or materials to learn or refresh foundational knowledge.
- Hard Prep — Practice with exams and question banks under test-like conditions.
- Anki — A flashcard app using spaced repetition for effective memorization.
- CARS — Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills, the MCAT reading comprehension section.
- AAMC — Association of American Medical Colleges, the official MCAT test maker.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Set a personalized 3-month study plan with clear content review and practice exam phases.
- Gather study materials (Kaplan/other books, Anki, UWorld, practice exams).
- Schedule a diagnostic MCAT exam before starting intensive study.
- Plan to adjust sleep and nutrition habits one week before test day.
- Consider joining online forums for community support and difficult question explanations.