Passage mapping fundamentals
Write a 3-bullet map of each passage before answering questions.
CARS rewards structure, not trivia. A passage map is your anchor. It keeps you focused on the authors purpose and the role of each paragraph. With a good map, the questions become retrieval tasks rather than rereading tasks.
- Structure beats detail memorization
- Main idea controls most answer choices
- Tone helps eliminate traps
- Map each paragraphs role
- Use the map to justify answers
After your next passage, compare your map to the questions you missed. Which paragraph role did you misread?
Generate a short quiz from this lesson. Choose the formats you want, then run it.
Use this for step-by-step support. This is learning-first and shows reasoning.
Use official CARS guidance and practice materials.
Use the CARS section for passage practice (link only).
Official MCAT overview from AAMC (link-only).
Register for the official free MCAT practice exam (link-only).
Official MCAT content outline (link-only).
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