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

Identifying Author’s Tone and Purpose

Reading Between the Lines

The MCAT often tests whether you can pick up on the author’s attitude and intentions. Is the author neutral, critical, enthusiastic, or skeptical? Are they trying to inform, persuade, or entertain?

Clues to Look For

  • Word Choice: Positive or negative adjectives reveal attitude.
  • Syntax: Short, direct sentences can signal urgency or conviction.
  • Context: Consider why the author might be writing on this topic.

The Bigger Picture

Understanding tone and purpose not only helps on the MCAT but also prepares you to interpret emails, articles, and research papers with greater nuance in real life.

Examples

  • Spotting a sarcastic tone in a critique of a scientific theory.

  • Noticing that a passage is written to persuade readers to adopt a new public health policy.

In a Nutshell

Recognizing tone and purpose helps you understand where the author stands and why they wrote the passage.

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Critical Evaluation of Arguments