-
Step 1
Become familiar the writing section's format. Test takers must write essays in response to two prompts. Each prompt, or topic sentence, is followed by a set of instructions that ask respondents to perform three tasks in essay form. The first task is usually to describe the meaning of the given statement; the second and third tasks will vary, depending on the prompt.
-
Step 2
Know how essays are evaluated. The essay is your opportunity to demonstrate critical thinking skills through discussing opposing views on a given topic and situating those alternate perspectives in a larger context. Those who evaluate responses look for test takers' ability to develop a thesis, maintain focus, synthesize seemingly unrelated ideas, present clear arguments and follow the conventions of the English language.
-
Step 3
Practice writing under timed conditions. On test day, you have one hour to type two essays on a computer. The computer program in which you write usually allows respondents to cut and paste and to check spelling. Simulate the test environment and write in response to practice prompts available online or in MCAT study guides.
-
Step 4
Learn to write or practice writing an outline. Those who fare best on the MCAT writing section create an outline before writing their essays. Outlines organize your thoughts, which drastically improves work quality. Break the MCAT essay into five distinct sections: a brief introduction, one section for each of the three assigned tasks and a succinct conclusion.
-
Step 5
Submit practice essays for scoring. Some test prep companies, like the Princeton Review, provide sample prompts to which future test takers can respond and submit for scoring according to MCAT guidelines. Fees associated with this service vary, but most prospective medical students benefit from the feedback.
