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- Feb 24, 2008
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So I am sure this topic has been addressed. I used the search function, but couldn't find it. Why don't more people take the real MCAT as a practice test, say 1/2 or 2/3 of the way through their prep, voiding it at the end? I wished I had.
Pros:
-more realistic picture of what test day is like
-knowing the general level of difficulty of the real test vs. older AAMC practice tests
-you can better target the rest of your test prep
-If you get lucky and have a great test (which is possible since you would be more relaxed) don't void the score and celebrate.
Cons (and fixes)
-cost (worth the $$$)
-Ability to find a seat at your true target test date (You can find a seat if you keep checking AAMC and/or are willing to drive a ways to get there)
-Every test is different (true, but an up-to-date test is a heck of a lot better practice than a 10 year old test)
-only allowed to take 3 MCATs a year. (Just be sure you are READY when you take your real real test)
In sports this strategy, "specificity of training", is sacrosanct. Seems like it would make a lot of sense to do it with the MCAT. Yet I have never heard of a prep company or even many people here on SDN suggest this. Am I missing something? Why NOT take a real MCAT as practice???
Pros:
-more realistic picture of what test day is like
-knowing the general level of difficulty of the real test vs. older AAMC practice tests
-you can better target the rest of your test prep
-If you get lucky and have a great test (which is possible since you would be more relaxed) don't void the score and celebrate.
Cons (and fixes)
-cost (worth the $$$)
-Ability to find a seat at your true target test date (You can find a seat if you keep checking AAMC and/or are willing to drive a ways to get there)
-Every test is different (true, but an up-to-date test is a heck of a lot better practice than a 10 year old test)
-only allowed to take 3 MCATs a year. (Just be sure you are READY when you take your real real test)
In sports this strategy, "specificity of training", is sacrosanct. Seems like it would make a lot of sense to do it with the MCAT. Yet I have never heard of a prep company or even many people here on SDN suggest this. Am I missing something? Why NOT take a real MCAT as practice???