One of the biggest worries for students preparing for the MCAT is how to utilize the last few days before the test. The last week in particular is often characterized by sleepless nights, nerve-wracking anxiety, and frustrating studying hours. However, your experience doesn't have to contain the same narrative. You can change it by getting organized with your MCAT test prep. If anything, the week before your test should be a time of reflection and light study. All your hard work will surely pay off if you have been following the correct reading routine, from the beginning. Of course, not every student has a clue of how the last week before their exams should run. That's why we have prepared these handy tips to help you approach the tests with your best foot forward.
Visit The Testing Center
When we say visit, we mean getting inside the building and getting a feel of it. It doesn't matter how many times you have driven past it. Yes, it might feel familiar from the outside, but it might get a little scary when you step inside. The last thing you would want is to deal with such mixed feelings on the exam day.
The main purpose of the visit is to give you a glimpse of what to expect on the testing day. For instance, you get enough time to check out where your testing room will be, how you'll get into the building, and even where the restrooms are.
Consider this to be part of your studying time, because a single mess-up can ruin your entire day. Knowing exactly where to find the bathroom, warm your food, or hang your jacket, will save you time on the day of the exam. This also includes checking out the parking lot to see how much space it holds. If you're new in town, it's best to drive through the various routes to the center to help you determine the shortest one and one with fewer traffic issues.
Plan And Practice Your Routine
Figure out how you would want the day of the test to run. What time will you wake up? Will you eat first? If yes, how soon can you get it ready? Get everything figured out. Take the last week before the exam to practice this so that you don't miss anything. Remember, you have to be as calm as possible on your examination day, for best results. If for instance, you usually wake up late, start getting up early so that you get used to it. This way, it won't be difficult getting to the testing center on time.
Reflect
Take as much time as possible, reflecting on your progress since the day you began your MCAT test prep. What have you learned so far? Try remembering every bit of it so that you don't forget. You can also conduct a last-minute confirmation of details. All facts should be correct. So, if you had some doubt, use the last week before your test to clarify them.
Go through your notebook and see if anything is making you uncomfortable and correct it. Take this as an opportunity to ask your MCAT test prep tutor any last minute questions or review any areas you feel less confident in.
Conclusion
The last week before your MCAT exams plays a crucial role in your success. Instead of using it to harbor anxiety, use it to reflect and practice your steps. It's also the best time to visit the testing center to familiarize yourself with how things work over there. This will give you some much-needed peace of mind and readiness for your test.
