The Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) section of the MCAT is often considered one of the most challenging components of the exam. Unlike other sections, CARS doesn’t rely on prior knowledge but instead tests your ability to understand, analyze, and evaluate complex passages. As medical students, we understand how daunting this section can be, but with the right strategies, you can navigate CARS with confidence and precision. In this post, we’ll explore some essential tips to help you excel in the CARS section.

I received a score of 130 in the CARS section scoring in the 98th percentile. Unlike the science-based courses you may have taken in undergrad such as chem, physics or bio, the CARS section focuses on your ability to think critically, understand complex passages, and read between the lines.

Start your journey with our introductory MCAT guide—everything you need to kick off your prep and ace the test!

What is the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills Section of the MCAT?

The CARS section evaluates your critical thinking, reading comprehension, and ability to apply reasoning skills to a variety of humanities and social sciences topics. The passages cover diverse subjects, including ethics, philosophy, history, and the arts, requiring you to interpret, evaluate, and apply information presented in unfamiliar contexts.

There are 53 questions in this section. With 9 passages, you can expect to see 5-7 questions per passage. The CARS section takes 90 minutes to complete, and like other sections, it is scored between 118 and 132.

The breakdown of the content is as follows:

• Foundations of Comprehension, 30%
  • This area tests your ability to understand the basic components of the text, such as the main idea, tone, and the purpose of the passage.
• Reasoning Within the Text, 30%
  • Here, you are assessed on your ability to draw inferences, identify relationships, and critically analyze the information presented in the passage.
• Reasoning Beyond the Text, 40%
  • This section evaluates your capacity to apply the information or arguments from the passage to new situations or to synthesize ideas from multiple sources.

The CARS section will include the following types of passages:

• Humanities Passages: Topics may include ethics, literature, philosophy, and the arts, often requiring you to understand and analyze complex and abstract ideas.
• Social Sciences Passages: Topics may cover areas such as psychology, sociology, and history, focusing on the interpretation of social and cultural phenomena.

Tips and Tricks to Acing the MCAT CARS Section

#1. Skim Each Passage First.

One of the most effective strategies for tackling the CARS section is to skim each passage before diving into the questions. Skimming allows you to get a general sense of the passage’s structure, tone, and main ideas without getting bogged down by details. When skimming:

• Focus on the Structure: Notice how the passage is organized, identifying the introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Identify the Tone: Determine whether the author’s tone is neutral, persuasive, or critical, as this can provide clues for understanding the passage.
• Highlight Key Sentences: Pay attention to the first and last sentences of each paragraph, as they often contain critical information.

#2. Label Each Paragraph with a Main Idea.

After skimming, go back and label each paragraph with a main idea. This process helps you break down the passage into manageable parts and ensures that you understand the primary focus of each section. To do this:

• First and Last Sentences: Look at the first and last sentences of each paragraph. These often encapsulate the paragraph’s core message.
• Identify Key Themes: Recognize recurring themes or arguments that might be central to the passage’s overall purpose.
• Summarize Briefly: Write a brief note or keyword next to each paragraph that captures its essence.

#3. Highlight Names and Numbers.

Names and numbers are often referenced in the question stems, making them essential details to keep track of. Highlighting these elements as you read can save you time when answering questions. Here’s how to manage this:

• Highlight Names: Whether it’s an author, historical figure, or fictional character, names are frequently central to the passage’s argument or narrative.
• Mark Numbers: Numbers can include dates, statistics, or other quantifiable data. Highlight them to quickly locate and reference these details during the questions.
• Cross-Reference: Use your highlighted names and numbers to cross-reference with questions, ensuring that you can quickly find the relevant information.

For question types 1 and 2, you do not necessarily need to read the whole passage again. Simply skim the passage for the relevant info you have highlighted as the correct answer will often be found from the important names and numbers. 

#4. Go with Your Gut—Never Change Your Answers.

One of the most common pitfalls in the CARS section is second-guessing your initial answers. It’s important to trust your instincts, especially after thorough preparation. Here’s why you should avoid changing your answers:

• Avoid Overthinking: Overanalyzing can lead to confusion and doubt. If you find yourself unsure, it’s better to stick with your initial choice. If you’ve been consistent in your approach to studying CARS, your gut feelings are usually reliable.
• First Instincts Are Often Correct: Your first answer is typically based on your initial understanding of the passage, which I have found to often be the most accurate.

#5. Practice, Practice, Practice.

The CARS section is unique because it requires a specific skill set that can only be honed through consistent practice. Regularly practicing with CARS passages will help you:

• Improve Reading Speed and Comprehension: Regular practice helps you become more efficient in reading and understanding complex texts. By practicing with tools such as Spreeder, you can increase the speed that you read passages at. Conversely, if you happen to be an extremely fast reader and find that you can skip over small details, practice reading intentionally and mindfully.
• Identify Patterns: With practice, you’ll start to recognize common question types and passage structures, making it easier to navigate the section.

#6. Stay Calm and Focused During the Exam.

Finally, staying calm and focused during the exam is crucial. The CARS section can be mentally taxing, but maintaining a clear mind will help you perform at your best.

• Deep Breathing: Practice deep breathing techniques to keep anxiety at bay during the exam.
• Time Management: Keep an eye on the clock but don’t rush. Pacing yourself will help ensure that you have enough time to thoughtfully answer each question.
• Stay Positive: A positive mindset can make a significant difference. Trust in your preparation and approach each passage with confidence.

Need some additional guidance? Check out our tips for acing the Chemistry/Physics, Biology/Biochemistry, and Psychology/Sociology sections.

Final Thoughts

Acing the CARS section requires a combination of strategy, practice, and mental discipline. By skimming passages, labeling paragraphs, highlighting key details, trusting your instincts, and staying calm, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle this challenging part of the MCAT. Remember, the key to success in CARS is consistent practice and confidence in your abilities. Good luck!