MCAT Verbal

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

Active Reading SkillsIdentifying Main Ideas and DetailsUnderstanding Author’s Tone and Purpose
Analyzing Arguments and Logical ReasoningDrawing Inferences and ImplicationsNavigating Complex Text Structures
Reading Scientific and Humanities PassagesInterpreting Graphs and Data in PassagesApplying Verbal Reasoning to Everyday Life
Timing and Pacing TechniquesElimination and Guessing StrategiesPre-Reading and Passage Mapping
Active Reading Skill...Identifying Main Ide...Understanding Author...Analyzing Arguments ...Drawing Inferences a...Navigating Complex T...Reading Scientific a...Interpreting Graphs ...Applying Verbal Reas...Timing and Pacing Te...Elimination and Gues...Pre-Reading and Pass...
Study Strategies

Elimination and Guessing Strategies

Smart Choices Under Pressure

Not sure of an answer? Use elimination to narrow your options and make an educated guess. The MCAT does not penalize for wrong answers, so never leave a question blank!

  • Cross out obviously wrong choices: Look for extreme language or answers not supported by the passage.
  • Compare remaining answers: Find subtle differences and match to the passage’s tone and purpose.
  • Trust your instincts: If stuck, your first impression is often correct.

Why It Works

These strategies help maximize your score, even when you’re unsure, and are valuable in decision-making beyond the MCAT.

Examples

  • Eliminating an answer choice because it introduces information not found in the passage.

  • Choosing between two close options by recalling the author’s attitude.

Next
Pre-Reading and Passage Mapping
Elimination and Guessing Strategies - MCAT Verbal Content | Practice Hub