12 Aamc Common Words To Boost Scores

The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) is responsible for developing and administering the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). The exam is designed to assess a candidate's knowledge in areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, and critical thinking. One crucial aspect of preparing for the MCAT is familiarizing oneself with the vocabulary that frequently appears on the test. In this context, we will explore 12 common words that can help boost scores on the MCAT, along with their definitions, examples, and relevance to the exam.

Understanding the Importance of Vocabulary on the MCAT

Vocabulary plays a vital role in the MCAT, as it is used to convey complex scientific concepts and ideas. A strong grasp of vocabulary can significantly improve a candidate’s ability to comprehend and analyze the content presented on the exam. The AAMC has identified a list of common words that are frequently used on the MCAT, and mastering these words can help candidates to better understand the material and answer questions more accurately.

12 Common Words to Boost Scores

The following 12 words are commonly used on the MCAT and can help candidates to improve their scores. Each word is accompanied by its definition, an example sentence, and an explanation of its relevance to the exam.

1. Hypothesis: A supposition or proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation. Example: "The researcher formulated a hypothesis to explain the observed phenomenon." Relevance: The MCAT frequently requires candidates to evaluate hypotheses and experimental designs.
2. Empirical: Based on observation or experience rather than theory. Example: "The empirical evidence supported the researcher's hypothesis." Relevance: Empirical evidence is a crucial aspect of scientific research, and candidates must be able to evaluate and analyze empirical data on the MCAT.
3. Variable: A factor or element that can be changed or controlled in an experiment. Example: "The researcher identified several variables that could affect the outcome of the experiment." Relevance: Understanding variables is essential for designing and evaluating experiments, a key aspect of the MCAT.
4. Control: A standard or reference point used for comparison in an experiment. Example: "The control group received a placebo to compare with the treatment group." Relevance: Controls are essential in experimental design, and candidates must be able to identify and evaluate controls on the MCAT.
5. Correlation: A relationship between two or more variables. Example: "The researcher found a correlation between the two variables." Relevance: Correlations are frequently discussed on the MCAT, and candidates must be able to evaluate and interpret correlation coefficients.
6. Predictive: Able to forecast or predict a future event or outcome. Example: "The model was predictive of the patient's response to treatment." Relevance: Predictive models are used in various fields of medicine, and candidates must be able to evaluate and interpret predictive models on the MCAT.
7. Random: Made or done without method or conscious decision. Example: "The researcher used random sampling to select participants for the study." Relevance: Randomization is a crucial aspect of experimental design, and candidates must be able to evaluate and interpret randomized controlled trials on the MCAT.
8. Spatial: Relating to space or the relationship between objects in space. Example: "The spatial arrangement of molecules affected their interaction." Relevance: Spatial relationships are essential in understanding molecular structures and interactions, a key aspect of the MCAT.
9. Temporal: Relating to time or the relationship between events in time. Example: "The temporal sequence of events was crucial in understanding the patient's condition." Relevance: Temporal relationships are essential in understanding disease progression and treatment outcomes, a key aspect of the MCAT.
10. Causal: Relating to cause and effect. Example: "The researcher identified a causal relationship between the two variables." Relevance: Causal relationships are essential in understanding disease mechanisms and treatment outcomes, a key aspect of the MCAT.
11. Homeostasis: The ability of an organism or system to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions. Example: "The body's homeostatic mechanisms helped to regulate blood sugar levels." Relevance: Homeostasis is a crucial concept in physiology, and candidates must be able to evaluate and interpret homeostatic mechanisms on the MCAT.
12. Plasticity: The ability of an organism or system to change or adapt in response to external conditions. Example: "The brain's plasticity allowed it to reorganize in response to injury." Relevance: Plasticity is a crucial concept in neuroscience, and candidates must be able to evaluate and interpret plasticity in the context of brain development and function on the MCAT.