With the advent of mobile devices such as laptops and smartphones, we have access to a world of information at our fingertips, and it is a key component of success in studying.
- Medical College Admission Test
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a computer-based standardized exam to test the knowledge of prospective medical students. Developed and overseen by the Association of American Medical Colleges, the test is administered around 14 times per year at Prometric Testing Centers. You can find registration for the MCAT on the AAMC official website and other test prep sites.
The test has recently undergone some changes and now takes eight hours to complete instead of five. The Writing Sample is no longer a part of the test, as it is not a good indicator of success in medical school. A new section has been added in the Sociology section to determine if test takers have the aptitude and understanding needed to deliver services across many cultures and sociological groups. The section was added due to rapid demographic changes in the United States. You can check the official website for other changes.
It’s essential to invest in technology such as a good laptop, tablet, or mobile device so that you can keep up to date with changes to the test and utilize apps or websites to help you research information.
- Study
The MCAT tests physical and biological sciences as well as verbal reasoning. In 2015, the AAMC added a new section called Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior. This section tests your ability to understand sociological, biological, and psychological influences on behavior and social interests. It also covers how people process stress and emotion.
The test is comprised of four sections:
- Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skill
- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
- Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
- Psychological, Social and Biological Foundations of Behavior
You can also access online study guides and apps to help you prepare for the test. You might also want to look into investing in a sturdy backpack that is packed with features like a built-in battery bank, lost and found tracker, anti-shock system and, resistant to dirt and water.
- Prepare
When preparing for the MCAT, you want to make sure you register early to secure your date and test location. Start in the junior or senior year of college and give yourself 12 weeks to prepare and around 23 hours per week to study. All of the questions are multiple-choice and are not adaptive. Each of the four main sections is scored separately with a maximum of 118-132 points per section. The total maximum score is between 472-528.
Look for study materials and test exams online from official and reputable sites. Enroll in a preparatory class either online or in person. Assess your strengths and weaknesses to evaluate which areas need more focus. Make a study schedule in your mobile device and set up reminders so that you can stick to it.
A great way to take notes is through the RocketBook notebook and app with the Pilot FriXion pens. Upload your notes through the app and have them sent directly to your cloud service of preference. The notebook is entirely erasable with a damp cloth. Reduce neck and back strain with the Roost Laptop Stand that is adjustable, lightweight and ultra-portable. It reduces neck and back strain by improving posture when studying allowing you to go for longer.
Final Note
You will worry less about passing the exam when you know you are studying efficiently. Technology is a key component of success in studying smarter and not harder.
