For an exam as tough as the MCAT, it only makes sense that you take MCAT practice exams to build up your confidence and skills for the actual test. Just studying and memorization alone won’t help you understand the pacing and exam structure. This is why it complements more traditional studying techniques like memorization and note-taking without complicating things.  

If you’re on the fence about whether or not MCAT tests are effective in helping you prepare for the real deal, there are several things you should consider about the effectiveness of MCAT practice tests. 

Pros of Practice Tests

Unless you’re using MCAT practice tests as the only means of preparation, which can make things difficult for you, there are a lot of benefits of taking MCAT practice tests. MCAT practice tests are usually more challenging than the real deal, so you’ll be more prepared than just studying and taking notes.

When you take MCAT practice exams, there is still the risk of failure. As a result, you can practice and focus on the sections you need extra work in without the stress or pressure of a real test. Also, you’ll start to get a good idea of how long each section is taking you to answer and which ones are the easiest for you. Using the right strategy, you can easily optimize your score.

How Effective Are Practice Tests? 

To make the most out of your MCAT preparations, you need to study with the best MCAT practice tests along with the best notes and reviews you can find. Practice tests should be treated like taking the actual MCAT exam to be more accurate. This means a student should take more than one practice test and space them out to track improvements.

Students should review both correct and incorrect answers on the practice test and realize the decisions that led them to make right or wrong choices. This way, you can exponentially increase the effectiveness of MCAT practice tests. Since the practice tests are usually harder than the real ones, don’t get too discouraged if you fail to get a few questions right at the end of each test.

Keep the following things in mind when gauging how well-prepared you are for the MCAT:

• The Difference in Utility– Unlike the actual MCAT exam, practice MCAT exams don’t include multiple sections with breaks. This is good in the beginning when you’re getting used to taking the tests at your own pace, but once you’re ready, it’s highly advised you time your practice MCAT test sections like the actual one.
• Perfection Through Repetition– It will take you at least half a dozen attempts to get familiarized with the question structure and figure out your strengths and weaknesses. Try to take an MCAT practice test every week to see significant improvement.
• The Right Environment– When you take MCAT practice tests at your own pace, you might find yourself getting too relaxed. In the actual test venue, there will be distractions, noises, and the presence of other people that won’t be a factor in the comfort of your own home. So try to simulate an actual MCAT test venue when taking practice MCAT tests. For example, try taking the test with music or other distractions turned on. This will help you develop focus and attention for the real exam.
• Don’t Forget to Review– Last but not least, don’t forget to check and review your mock tests to see how well you performed. Most good MCAT prep books and programs come with solutions to the tests, which can help you accurately gauge your results. 

Make the Tests Count

MCAT practice tests are a great way to improve your chances of getting a good score in your MCAT exam, which improves your chances of getting into a decent medical school. So prioritize them from the very beginning so that you have an edge during the actual exam. Prepare as much as possible and remain confident when you enter the test venue.