OAT Preparation Exam Overview
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Questions and Answers

What is the total time allotted for the OAT test?

  • 4 hours
  • 5 hours (correct)
  • 3 hours
  • 6 hours

Which section of the OAT includes questions on Cellular and Molecular Biology?

  • Survey of Natural Sciences (correct)
  • Physics
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Quantitative Reasoning

How many questions are there in the Biology section of the OAT?

  • 60 questions
  • 40 questions (correct)
  • 50 questions
  • 30 questions

What is NOT allowed to be brought into the OAT testing room?

<p>All of the above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the Organic Chemistry section in the OAT?

<p>Mechanisms and Reactions of Functional Groups (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes the highest number of questions within the Survey of Natural Sciences?

<p>Biology (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During which portion of the OAT is your time still counted if you request a new noteboard?

<p>During a section of the test (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which topic is covered in the General Chemistry section of the OAT?

<p>Solutions and Acids/Bases (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should students primarily adjust in their study plan as they progress through their OAT program?

<p>Focus on strengths and weaknesses (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a major distraction students face when studying at home?

<p>Television and internet (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can studying in a library benefit students compared to studying at home?

<p>It eliminates distractions and promotes efficient studying (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might students struggle with understanding practice questions during their OAT prep?

<p>Not reading questions carefully enough (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What approach can help students focus better while studying?

<p>Changing study locations regularly (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common reason for miscalculations on practice questions?

<p>Failure to memorize important procedures (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might happen when a student gets distracted while studying?

<p>They lose time recovering their previous concentration (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these study environments is least likely to help a student focus?

<p>Home with family around (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using Smart Reports after taking a Full Length practice test?

<p>To identify areas of opportunity for improvement (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you consistently perform well on Review Problems at the end of a chapter?

<p>Quickly skim through the chapter (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to regularly review notes and practice questions?

<p>To enforce long-term retention and skill sets (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might happen if you neglect to schedule time for review in your study plan?

<p>It can hinder your overall test performance (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach when encountering content that looks unfamiliar or particularly difficult?

<p>Read more thoroughly and take notes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of maintaining a 'Why I Missed It Sheet' (WIMIS)?

<p>To identify patterns in missed questions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does reviewing the explanations for questions you missed help you?

<p>It reinforces brain connections and knowledge retention (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you find a chapter content difficult after attempting its Review Problems?

<p>Spend additional time reading the chapter thoroughly (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does research affirm about the OAT in relation to optometry school success?

<p>It is correlated with success when combined with undergraduate GPA. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which skill areas does the OAT primarily test?

<p>Higher-order thinking skills such as analytical reasoning and problem solving. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should test takers maintain in their approach to the OAT?

<p>Recognize the test sections as variations on a similar theme. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What foundational knowledge is essential for success on the OAT?

<p>Basic knowledge of biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why do applicants need to go beyond just knowing the basics for the OAT?

<p>Basic knowledge alone is insufficient for passing the test. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What misconception do many test takers have regarding the OAT preparation?

<p>They think they can pass with just knowledge of basic facts. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the suggested approach for learning the content necessary for the OAT?

<p>Take foundational courses in biology and chemistry followed by thorough review. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the OAT measure about applicants beyond their knowledge?

<p>Their capability to creatively solve problems. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it beneficial to change study locations?

<p>It makes studying less monotonous. (B), It prepares you for different environmental distractions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended strategy to minimize distractions when studying at home?

<p>Complete essential tasks before starting your study block. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can practicing in a library environment help prepare for Test Day?

<p>Library environments are similar to Prometric testing centers. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should you do to simulate the testing environment while studying?

<p>Turn off distractions like music and television. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which practice should be avoided during intensive study blocks?

<p>Listening to music to enhance focus. (C), Chewing gum to keep alert. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should you consider doing as Test Day approaches?

<p>Practice at the same time of day as your official test. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key benefit of making your practice test-like?

<p>It strengthens the association of memory with the senses. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action should you take if the Internet distracts you while studying?

<p>Temporarily disable social media accounts. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary aim of personalizing your study approach?

<p>To tailor studying to your individual effectiveness (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to simulate the testing environment during study blocks?

<p>It helps you to learn faster and more effectively (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What strategy can best enhance your performance on the OAT?

<p>Implementing test-taking strategies alongside content knowledge (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What unique challenge does the OAT present regarding its question format?

<p>All questions are presented in a multiple choice format (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can knowing the test structure benefit an individual on the OAT?

<p>It helps in determining correct answers using test structures (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one way to effectively organize scratchwork during the test?

<p>By using a noteboard strategically (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an overarching principle to apply throughout OAT preparation?

<p>Utilize effective test-taking strategies in conjunction with study plans (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested to improve the efficiency of your study blocks?

<p>Following a detailed calendar of study blocks and breaks (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is the OAT?

The OAT is a challenging exam that assesses your knowledge of university-level science, reading comprehension, physics, and quantitative reasoning. It features four timed sections with a total of 230 multiple-choice questions, requiring almost five hours to complete.

What is the Survey of Natural Sciences section?

The OAT's Survey of Natural Sciences section is the most comprehensive and covers a wide range of biology, chemistry, and organic chemistry topics.

How many questions and time are allocated for the Survey of Natural Sciences section?

The Survey of Natural Sciences section includes 100 multiple-choice questions divided into Biology, General Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry. You have 90 minutes to complete these questions.

What topics does the Biology section cover?

The Biology section of the Survey of Natural Sciences focuses on key concepts like cellular/molecular biology, diversity of life, structure/function of systems (anatomy/physiology), developmental biology, genetics/evolution, ecology, and behavior.

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What does the General Chemistry section encompass?

The General Chemistry section covers various areas like stoichiometry, gases/liquids/solids, solutions, acids/bases, chemical equilibria, thermodynamics/thermochemistry, chemical kinetics, oxidation/reduction reactions, atomic/molecular structure, periodic properties, nuclear reactions, and lab techniques.

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What kind of knowledge is tested in the Organic Chemistry section?

The Organic Chemistry section delves into mechanisms, chemical/physical properties of molecules, stereochemistry, nomenclature, reactions of functional groups, synthesis of compounds, acid-base chemistry, and aromatics/bonding.

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What is the OAT like?

The OAT requires strong endurance and stamina, as it is a lengthy exam with multiple sections and a significant duration.

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Why is it important to prepare well for the OAT?

Before the OAT, it's crucial to have a plan and a clear understanding of each section's content, format, and timing. Familiarize yourself with the test structure to approach it confidently and efficiently.

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Intellectual Potential

The ability to absorb new information, make connections between ideas, and solve problems confidently and creatively.

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OAT: Underlying Theme

The OAT assesses analytical reasoning, abstract thinking, and problem-solving skills, regardless of the specific subject matter.

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Scientific Fluency

The ability to understand and use scientific concepts, principles, and terminology.

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Basic Science: Necessary but not sufficient

Knowledge of basic science concepts is crucial, but it's not enough to succeed on the OAT.

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Test Makers' Battle Plans

Understanding the test's structure, question types, and the test makers' strategies.

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Beyond Basic Knowledge

Beyond basic knowledge, a deeper understanding of the test is crucial to succeed on the OAT.

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Mental Shifting of Gears

The ability to adapt and change your approach to different sections of the test.

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Success Recipe: Knowledge and Strategy

The combination of foundational knowledge and strategic test-taking skills is key to success.

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Focus on Weaknesses

To improve OAT performance, focus on your weaknesses rather than spending time on topics you already understand.

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Use Practice Materials to Guide Your Study

Use practice materials to identify areas where you need the most improvement and focus your studying accordingly.

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Use Smart Reports for Focused Study

After taking a full-length OAT practice test, utilize the Smart Reports to pinpoint specific areas needing more attention.

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Skim Over Familiar Material, Read Carefully When Needed

When reviewing material, quickly scan over sections you're already proficient in. Pause and read more thoroughly when you encounter unfamiliar or difficult concepts.

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Start With Review Problems, Then Dive Deeper If Needed

Begin with the review problems at the end of a chapter if you feel confident with the topic. If you struggle, delve into the chapter for more in-depth study.

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Regularly Review Notes and Practice Questions

Regularly review notes and practice questions to reinforce learning and build lasting memory.

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Track Mistakes with a "Why I Missed It Sheet"

Create a "Why I Missed It Sheet" to track mistakes and identify patterns. This helps you understand your weaknesses and avoid making the same errors.

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Schedule Time for Review

Allocate dedicated time for reviewing past material. It is crucial for solidifying knowledge and enhancing long-term retention.

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Study Location Variety

Changing your study environment can help you adapt to the test setting, especially if you're used to studying in different places with varying degrees of quiet.

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Proactive Distraction Removal

Reducing distractions before you study, like completing chores or disabling distracting websites, limits interruptions and allows for focused study time.

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Library vs. Test Center Similarities

Studying in similar quiet environments like libraries helps you get used to the noise levels and distractions you might encounter during the OAT.

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Simulate Test Day Conditions

Practicing in the exact test-like setting helps you adapt to the experience and improves your comfort level on Test Day.

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Time-Specific OAT Study

Learning at specific times of day and on the same days of the week as the OAT, especially as Test Day approaches, helps build a routine and improves memory recall.

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Multisensory Study Environment

Creating a study environment that engages all your senses mimics the real test experience and strengthens memory recall.

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Where To Study

The most important study environment advice is to study in a distraction-free space, like a library or quiet coffee shop. This creates a focused, efficient environment and allows you to fully engage with the material.

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Study Environment

Minimize distractions and maximize productivity by studying in a place like a library, instead of at home. This helps you stay focused and avoid the temptation to do other things.

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Home Distractions

Distractions at home can easily derail your concentration. This is why it's beneficial to seek out a distraction-free environment, like the library, to focus on your studies.

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Efficient Studying

Avoid the temptation to study haphazardly at home. Instead, find a dedicated study space like a library and focus for a set period, allowing yourself to enjoy the rest of the day off from studying.

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Focus and Concentration

Focus and concentration are key to successful studying. They allow you to absorb information fully.

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Losing Focus

When you lose your focus due to distractions, it takes time and effort to regain the same level of concentration. This inefficient method can actually waste more time.

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Focused Study Sessions

You're going to spend a lot of time studying, so get used to studying for a set period, like 3 hours, at a distraction-free location like a library.

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Adjusting Study Plan

It's okay to adapt your study plan through the OAT program based on your study time, practice test results, and your evolving strengths and weaknesses.

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Test-taking strategy

This strategy involves understanding the test question formats and having a clear plan for tackling each question while finishing every section on time.

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Kaplan Question Strategy

This strategy focuses on recognizing relationships and patterns in the answer choices rather than memorizing facts.

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Test timing

This principle emphasizes the importance of managing your time effectively during the test.

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Noteboard strategies

This strategy involves organizing your scratchwork and notes in a clear and logical manner.

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Kaplan's Top 10 OAT strategies

These strategies are specific tips and techniques that help you improve your performance on the OAT.

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Focusing on weaknesses

This approach involves prioritizing your study time by focusing on topics where you need the most improvement.

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Using practice materials to guide your study

This involves using practice materials to identify your weak points and tailor your study plan accordingly.

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Using Smart Reports for focused study

This involves analyzing your performance on practice tests and targeting specific areas for further study.

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Study Notes

OAT Preparation Overview

  • OAT is an endurance test, lasting almost five hours with four timed sections and 230 multiple-choice questions.
  • Includes a Survey of Natural Sciences, Reading Comprehension, Physics, and Quantitative Reasoning.
  • Each subject has specific content requirements (e.g., Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry).
  • The OAT assesses higher-order thinking skills (analytical reasoning, abstract thinking, problem-solving).
  • Success is not solely about scientific knowledge, but also about test-taking strategies.

OAT Content Review

  • Survey of Natural Sciences (90 minutes): 100 multiple-choice questions. Subdivided into Biology, General Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry.
    • Biology (40 Q): Cellular & Molecular Biology, Diversity of Life, Anatomy & Physiology, Developmental Biology, Genetics & Evolution, Ecology & Behavior.
    • General Chemistry (30 Q): Stoichiometry, Gases/Liquids/Solids, Solutions, Acids/Bases, Chemical Equilibria, Thermodynamics, Kinetics, Redox Reactions, Atomic/Molecular Structure, Periodic Properties, Nuclear Reactions, Lab Techniques.
    • Organic Chemistry (30 Q): Mechanisms, Molecular Properties, Stereochemistry, Nomenclature, Functional Group Reactions, Acid/Base Chemistry, Aromatics/Bonding.

OAT Approach & Strategies

  • Test-Taking Strategies: Essential for optimizing performance.
  • Kaplan Question Strategy: Focuses on recognizing relationships and patterns rather than rote memorization of facts.
  • Proctor Assistance: Replace noteboard/marker by asking proctor. Proctors do not allow external materials like calculators, writing utensils, or paper.
  • Study Environment: Simulate test conditions during practice. Change locations, reduce distractions (remove internet access, disable social media).
  • Effective Study Habits: Personalized study plan, use time effectively, identify areas for improvement and review them. Regular review of notes and practice problems. Track incorrect answers to find patterns.

OAT Score & Success

  • OAT correlates with success in optometry school.
  • Schools prioritize applicants' intellectual potential (information absorption, critical thinking) over extensive scientific knowledge.
  • Learning content for the OAT is just the first step; mastering test-taking strategies is critical for a high score.

Practice & Review

  • Practice Materials: Use practice materials to identify areas needing improvement.
  • Smart Reports: Utilize Smart Reports to evaluate performance and pinpoint weak areas.
  • Review Process: Review practice questions and notes. Review incorrect answers for understanding mistakes and identify patterns.
  • Consistency: Study at the same time of day as the test, to build memory associations and prepare the brain for test conditions.
  • Long-Term Retention: Regular review and repetition of concepts are crucial for long-term retention.

Studying That Suits You

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Quiz Team

Related Documents

Kaplan OAT Prep Plus 2019-2020 PDF

Description

This quiz covers essential contents for the OAT, including the Survey of Natural Sciences, Physics, Reading Comprehension, and Quantitative Reasoning. It focuses on important topics in Biology, General Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry, emphasizing both knowledge and test-taking strategies. Prepare to enhance your analytical reasoning and problem-solving skills for the OAT exam.

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