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...
Advanced Topics

Critical Evaluation of Arguments

Dissecting Arguments

The MCAT expects you to not just understand arguments but also evaluate their strength. Can you spot assumptions, logical fallacies, or gaps in reasoning?

Steps to Take

  1. Identify the Claim: What is the author asserting?
  2. Find the Evidence: What support is provided?
  3. Check for Assumptions: What is taken for granted?
  4. Spot Weaknesses: Are there logical leaps or missing links?

Real-World Relevance

These skills are vital for reading scientific studies, evaluating policy proposals, and making informed decisions in your professional and personal life.

Examples

  • Detecting that an argument against a new drug lacks adequate scientific evidence.

  • Identifying a hidden assumption in a passage advocating for educational reform.

In a Nutshell

Evaluate arguments by examining claims, evidence, and underlying assumptions.

Key Terms

Assumption
An unstated premise that must be true for an argument to hold.
Logical fallacy
A flaw in reasoning that weakens an argument.
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Drawing Inferences and Making Predictions