MCAT testing day can be a stressful event.
The day you take the MCAT can be a stressful event. You need to think that you have done everything you could have to prepare for the exam and feel confident in yourself and abilities. A few important tips can help you achieve your goals on test day.
Arrive Early
Arriving at least 30 minutes prior to the exam is highly recommended. This allows the test administrator to check you in in a timely manner and also allows you to get comfortable with the test site. Leaving your home early also allows time to get there in case problems such as traffic or a car problem arise.
Lay Out Test Materials the Night Before
Lay out your test materials the night before the exam. This will allow you to focus on relaxing before heading to the exam instead of a stressful rush to find your missing identification. These items can include your identification, pencils and erasers (if a written test), and a small snack or lunch.
When in Doubt, Choose "B" or "C"
If you are having trouble with a question (or time is running out), then a common practice is to choose "B" or "C." Choose one of these options and fill that letter in for all the questions you cannot answer.
A Good Night's Sleep
Studying all night will be a detriment instead of help. Getting a good night of rest is more important.
Make sure you get a full night of rest prior to the exam. Studies show this can be one of the most important factors, in addition to preparation, for your success on any standardized exam including the MCAT. If you do not think you will be able to sleep that night, try going to bed an hour or two earlier than you originally planned.
No Cramming
Pulling an "all nighter" before the MCAT is ill advised. This can be detrimental as you will not get that valuable rest you need and can cause you to forget information you have already learned. If you feel that you need to warm up prior to the MCAT, fullerton.edu suggests working through two verbal passages before you take the exam.
Eat Breakfast
Eating breakfast every day can help us get through our daily activities and this holds true for an exam such as the MCAT. Be sure to eat a healthy breakfast. This can include items like cereal, fruit, yoqurt, toast, or a combination of these items. Do not overeat however, as this will cause you discomfort and distract you during the test. Also try avoiding drinks that can cause you to crash later, such as caffeinated beverages like coffee.
Pack a Lunch
Pack a small, healthy lunch to eat during the halftime break of the exam. This will give you a boost in energy to finish the exam. Be sure to avoid foods that can cause you to grow tired such as turkey. A small sandwich, some chips, and a juice box is a common lunch at standardized exams such as the MCAT.
Go Over Your Testing Strategies
Chances are you have a sheet that has general strategies for actually taking the MCAT. Review this a few times before heading to the test site to get your mind prepared to use them. These often include things like "reading the directions first" or "coming back later to difficult questions if you have time."
Take a Few Deep Breaths
Take a deep breath and be confident that you will reach your goal soon.
Before and during the exam, take a few seconds to take a few deep breaths. This will relax your body and lower your stress levels. It is often suggested to do this after every two to three pages in a written exam.
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