MCAT Writing Sample

Class Location: The Internet.

Description: This class will prepare students for taking the Writing Sample section of the MCAT.

Objective: Score high on the Writing Sample section of the MCAT.

The MCAT writing sample tests your ability to communicate ideas clearly and effectively, an important skill since physicians must often communicate with patients, colleagues, and the public. The writing sample includes two 30-minute essays designed to test your ability to develop a main idea; integrate concepts and ideas; present ideas in a clear and logical manner; and write coherently using proper grammar, syntax, and punctuation.

Each portion of the writing sample provides a statement on a topic such as history, art, or politics. The topics are not related to science or med school. The statement expresses an opinion, philosophy, or policy. You then have three writing tasks. First, you must explain or interpret the statement as thoroughly as possible. Next, you must illustrate your understanding of the statement by describing a situation that contradicts it or in which it is not accurate. This essentially requires you to express an opposing viewpoint. Finally, you must describe ways in which the two opposing viewpoints might be resolved. This requires you to apply your understanding of the topic to conflict resolution. You may organize the three tasks in any order, but be sure to respond to all three.

To earn a good score on the writing sample, you must organize your ideas in a logical order with a well-developed central idea. You should present your response in clear, well-constructed prose. You should thoroughly detail the meaning and implications of the provided statement and clearly define any complex terms included in it. You should support your assertions with specific examples that illustrate your points.

The essays are scored holistically, meaning you don’t receive separate scores for individual elements such as organization, development, or grammar. Your scores are based on how well you articulate and support your positions and on the essay’s overall effectiveness, including the depth, organization, and clarity with which you complete the three writing tasks.