MCAT Verbal

Mastering reading comprehension and critical analysis for the MCAT Verbal section.

Understanding Passage StructureActive Reading TechniquesIdentifying Author’s Tone and Purpose
Critical Evaluation of ArgumentsDrawing Inferences and Making PredictionsSynthesis Across Multiple Passages
Applying Critical Analysis in Medical PracticeReading Scientific Literature EfficientlyCommunicating Complex Ideas Clearly
Time Management on the Verbal SectionElimination and Educated GuessingReviewing Mistakes to Improve
Understanding Passag...Active Reading Techn...Identifying Author’s...Critical Evaluation ...Drawing Inferences a...Synthesis Across Mul...Applying Critical An...Reading Scientific L...Communicating Comple...Time Management on t...Elimination and Educ...Reviewing Mistakes t...
Basic Concepts

Active Reading Techniques

Engaging With the Text

Active reading means going beyond passively processing words. It’s about questioning, predicting, and annotating as you read.

Techniques to Try

  • Ask Questions: Pause and wonder about the author’s purpose or possible implications.
  • Summarize Paragraphs: After each paragraph, mentally rephrase the main point.
  • Highlight Key Ideas: Mark thesis statements, shifts in argument, or bold claims.

Why It Works

Active readers retain more information and are better at answering inference and main idea questions. This is crucial for MCAT success, where time is limited and stakes are high.

Beyond the MCAT

These skills help in college lectures, lab meetings, and staying sharp with scientific literature throughout your career.

Examples

  • Highlighting the author’s main argument and jotting a quick note in the margin.

  • Mentally summarizing each paragraph to check understanding.

In a Nutshell

Active reading boosts comprehension and retention, making you a more efficient reader.

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Identifying Author’s Tone and Purpose