PAT Keyholes

[Leo Messi]

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Hey guys, writing the DAT in 2 weeks and I just cannot seem to get my head around keyholes. I'm using Bootcamp for practice and the one thing I can't get straight is keyholes. The last 3 or 4 tests I've been getting 5/15 on the keyholes at best, they are the one section I consistently am doing terribly in.

I've tried looking at some previous posts regarding keyholes and tips in general for the PAT, and that the only answer is practice practice practice, but is there really nothing to do other than practice? I've been trying to just keep doing problems and trying to figure out what works best for me but nothing seems to be working for me haha! Any videos or tips would be greatly appreciated!!

Thank you!

 

[timbaland702]

The keyhole section is actually not that hard on the real test. Bootcamp actually over prepares you in my opinion. But keep preparin on that area and I think you'll be fine.

 

[TourdeTeeth]

The highest I got on the PAT section using bootcamp was a 16. I got a 19 on the PAT during the actual DAT. Just keep practicing. That's the only advice I can give.

 

[Alectrify]

How are you approaching these problems? Yes, BC was more difficult than the actual DAT, but it highlighted all the ways that the DAT could trick you. Instead of looking for the right answer, you must eliminate every wrong answer. By doing this, you can prevent yourself from impulsively picking an answer just because it looks correct. If you're already doing this, then I would suggest analyzing BC solutions again. They have the most elaborate explanations for the PAT sections by far IMO.

 

[FeralisExtremum]

How are you approaching these problems? Yes, BC was more difficult than the actual DAT, but it highlighted all the ways that the DAT could trick you. Instead of looking for the right answer, you must eliminate every wrong answer. By doing this, you can prevent yourself from impulsively picking an answer just because it looks correct. If you're already doing this, then I would suggest analyzing BC solutions again. They have the most elaborate explanations for the PAT sections by far IMO.

Spot on.

The best strategy for approaching keyholes (and TFE for the trickier ones) is the systematic elimination of every incorrect answer choice. This might be easier said than done, but BC thoroughly explains why the other choices are incorrect, and what you should have identified to reach the same conclusion. Exposing yourself to enough of these problems and going through the analysis will improve your ability to do the same.

 

[Leo Messi]

Thanks for all the replies guys!

@Alectrify, I've been only really analyzing the one I chose incorrectly and the correct answer. I will start looking at the other explanations as well!