How to Hack the MCAT

Lauren Lassiter
Apr 26
2 min read

The MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) is a challenging milestone on the path to medical school. It’s not just about testing your knowledge; it evaluates critical thinking, problem-solving, and endurance. While there’s no shortcut to success, there are strategies to help you “hack” the MCAT and maximize your potential.

1. Understand the Test Structure

Before diving into preparation, familiarize yourself with the MCAT’s format. The test has four sections:

Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior

Understanding what each section entails will guide your study plan and help you allocate time effectively.

2. Create a Targeted Study Schedule

Design a realistic study plan that spans several months. Break it into manageable blocks:

Content Review: Focus on mastering foundational concepts.
Practice Questions: Integrate questions from reputable resources like AAMC, UWorld, or Kaplan.
Full-Length Tests: Simulate exam conditions regularly to build stamina and identify weak areas.

Stick to your schedule, but remain flexible enough to adapt based on your progress.

3. Leverage High-Quality Resources

Some popular MCAT prep materials include:

Ibis Prep: Offers one-on-one tutoring with helpful and unique digital materials

4. Master CARS with Practice

CARS is a unique section that often trips up students. The best way to improve? Practice, practice, practice.

Read scientific papers, editorials, or philosophical essays.
Practice skimming for main ideas and understanding arguments without getting lost in details.
Time yourself to simulate test conditions.

5. Build Endurance

The MCAT is a marathon, not a sprint. Train your brain to stay sharp for over 7 hours.

Take full-length practice tests regularly.
Simulate testing conditions (no phones, scheduled breaks).
Develop strategies to stay focused, such as mindfulness techniques or breathing exercises.

6. Prioritize Weaknesses

Analyze your performance after every practice test. Are you struggling with biochemistry? Do certain question types trip you up? Focus your energy on these areas, but don’t neglect your strengths entirely.

7. Develop Test-Taking Strategies

Eliminate Wrong Answers: Often, ruling out incorrect options leads you to the correct choice.
Time Management: Don’t get stuck on a single question. Flag it and return later if time permits.
Guess Smartly: Never leave a question unanswered.

8. Take Care of Your Health

Get enough sleep; it’s essential for memory retention and focus.
Maintain a balanced diet and exercise regularly to stay energized.
Practice stress-management techniques like meditation or yoga.

9. Use Realistic Practice Tests

The AAMC practice tests are the gold standard for predicting your score. Use them strategically:

Take one early to gauge your baseline.
Reserve one for the final weeks before your test date as a “dress rehearsal.”

10. Know When to Ask for Help

If certain topics feel insurmountable, seek help. Whether it’s through tutoring, study groups, or online forums like Reddit’s r/MCAT, there’s no shame in reaching out for support.

Final Thoughts

Hacking the MCAT isn’t about finding shortcuts—it’s about working smarter. Stay disciplined, maintain a growth mindset, and believe in your ability to succeed. The journey to becoming a physician is long, but every step, including conquering the MCAT, is worth it.