Six Lifestyle Tips for MCAT Prep
As the famous saying goes "a sound body keeps a sound mind", it takes good health to keep the mind sound and well-functioning. Likewise, the best way to approach MCAT prep is with the combined effort of a sound mind and a sound body. Here is a list of handy tips that can help students to be well prepared to take on this responsibility.
- Early to bed, early to rise
Plan the study schedule in such a way that the body is allowed sufficient sleep. Lack of sleep makes it difficult to focus and results in students spending additional hours readying the same topics over and over again. A preset plan must be followed and sleep should never be compromised on or before the day of the exam.
- Follow a healthy diet
Research indicates that food has a direct impact on the functioning of the brain. Careful choice of food intake can help tremendously throughout the MCAT prep time. Students are advised to avoid food items that may cause allergies or are high in sugar content that could elevate insulin levels which cause a sugar crash. Vitamin supplements such as B complex, - A, and E play a vital role in enhancing the concentration and memory of the students. The food you take helps the mind to concentrate and therefore will help you study more efficiently.
- Avoid excessive pressure
MCAT is a challenging exam but it can be overcome by choosing the correct prep courses and streamlined preparations. This starts with a customized study plan that fulfills the particular need of the student. 30-60 minutes in a day must be allotted to focus on the topics that were taught on a specific day, as this kind of memory reinforcement improves test performance. If opting for MCAT training in the weekends, allow few hours of socializing in between in order to avoid any burning out.
- Do not postpone
A common yet often overlooked problem of exam prep is the tendency to postpone. Learning difficult concepts, details, or any exam-related activities like getting your questions answered with the tutor, completing a practice test within the stipulated time and so on must be completed in time. This ensures that you will feel comfortable with the exam before the test date.
- Form a study group
MCAT study groups are considered as an effective study technique that aids in the sharing of ideas and useful information. A dedicated group of 4-6 members from different academic backgrounds create the opportunity to leverage on each other's skill. Study groups are also an important way of enhancing communication skills and team skills which will ultimately help students when moving on to medical school.
- Learn to trust yourself
Finally, self-confidence is the key to success in any examination and individuals must learn to trust their abilities and commitment towards the big challenge.
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