So, you’re studying for the MCAT: at this point, you’ve probably got your hands full with content review, practice problems, and trying out different test taking strategies.
So, what else can you do to make sure everything goes your way on test day?
One of the most important factors in performing your best on the MCAT is to walk into the test center feeling prepared and confident. While mastery of content is of course essential to fostering this mindset, preparing for the less academic aspects of the MCAT can also help to reduce stress and improve success on test day.
Below are three MCAT prep tips that do not involve “studying more"
1. Take full length practice tests
This one may seem obvious, but I think it’s still worth including. The MCAT is a long test and the best way to build up your mental endurance is to practice taking long tests. If you are like me and the idea of a 7.5-hour test is highly intimidating at first, take some time to work up to it. Start by taking 2 sections back-to-back, and then three. If you have access, utilize the shortened “covid era” MCAT tests that have a reduced run time. Before long, you will build up the endurance and confidence you need to tackle a full-length exam. (Note: Be sure to save the official AAMCAS tests for later in your studies when you are ready for full lengths.)
2. Simulate test taking conditions
This is another tip that is all over the internet, but I feel like it is not taken as seriously as it should be! Spending your Saturday taking a full-length practice test is no fun at all and it can be tempting to reduce discomfort by taking the test in bed, lengthening breaks, or keeping 3+ comfort beverages at your side (guilty!). If you can take practice exams at a desk, in a quiet space, exactly as you would on test day, this will not only make your practice scores more accurate but will also help you feel more comfortable and at ease when you are in the testing center. In addition to simulating a realistic test-taking space, I highly recommend taking at least one or two practice tests at the same time of day that you will take the real thing (see tip #3 for more on this).
3. Adjust your sleep schedule
Out of everything on this list, this is the tip I am most passionate about. I have talked to so many people who slept terribly the night before their MCAT and feel that this had a negative impact on their performance. In case you did not already know this, the MCAT is early. If you are a morning person, great. If you are like me and prefer to stay up late and sleep in late, then you have some work to do the week before your test. Trying to change your sleep schedule in one night is going to be difficult, especially when you are inevitably going to experience some stress about the imminent exam. To avoid spending the eve of your MCAT lying in bed awake and frustrated and then arriving to your test sleep deprived, I recommend starting to shift your sleep schedule at least a week in advance. While you still might not get a perfect night sleep, being on the right sleep cycle can only help you feel more rested and prepared on test day.
Comments