Quantitative Test Woes: 3 Questions Left, How Many Points Did I Lose?

In summary: I took the SAT back in october and scored a 1400. I just took the ACT today and scored a 25. My scores from the SAT and ACT are both in the top 1%. My question is, am i still in good enough shape to take the MCAT?Based on your scores, it is likely you are still in good enough shape to take the MCAT. However, you should re-take the MCAT if you want to have the best chance of being accepted. Based on your scores and your interests, there may be other medical schools that are a better fit for you.
  • #1
rjs123
90
0
So i took the test today and did personally well in the quantitative section...680...but i ran out of time with 3 questions left when i did the 28 question section. How many points do you think that cost me and do you think it would have been better to randomly select answers?
 
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  • #2
According to the ETS website:

If you are running out of time at the end of a section, make every effort to complete the test. Data indicate that most test takers get higher scores if they finish the test. In fact, based on analyses of test takers, a majority of test takers will score higher if they finish the test than if they do not attempt to answer all of the questions. There is a chance that guessing at the end of the test can seriously lower your score. The best strategy is to pace yourself so that you have time to consider each test question and won't have to guess.

There might be a minor statistical advantage one way or the other, but it's impossible to say whether or not it would've been better for your particular case. I'm a cautious person, so I would say it's better to take the +0 than risk losing points, but that's just personal preference.

As for how many points it cost you, it's impossible to say because the point values of the questions are scaled.

First, a raw score is computed. The raw score is the number of correct answers minus one-fourth the number of incorrect answers.

The raw score is then converted to a scaled score through a process known as equating that accounts for differences in difficulty among the different test editions. Thus, a given scaled score reflects approximately the same level of ability regardless of the edition of the test that was taken.
Also the average Quant score for people in the physical sciences (which I assume you are) was 691 from the latest data I could see on their website, so you may want to consider retaking the test.
 
  • #3
davesface said:
According to the ETS website:



There might be a minor statistical advantage one way or the other, but it's impossible to say whether or not it would've been better for your particular case. I'm a cautious person, so I would say it's better to take the +0 than risk losing points, but that's just personal preference.

As for how many points it cost you, it's impossible to say because the point values of the questions are scaled.




Also the average Quant score for people in the physical sciences (which I assume you are) was 691 from the latest data I could see on their website, so you may want to consider retaking the test.

I'm attempting to go into compsci
 

1. How is a quantitative test different from other types of tests?

A quantitative test assesses a student's ability to solve numerical and mathematical problems, as opposed to other types of tests which may focus on memorization or essay writing. It requires a strong understanding of mathematical concepts and the ability to apply them to solve problems.

2. How can I avoid losing points on a quantitative test?

To avoid losing points on a quantitative test, it is important to carefully read and understand each question. Pay attention to key words and instructions, and make sure to show all of your work and calculations. Double check your answers and make sure they are accurate. Practicing and reviewing material beforehand can also help improve your performance on a quantitative test.

3. Is it better to guess or leave a question blank on a quantitative test?

This depends on the specific test and your level of knowledge on the subject. In general, if you have some knowledge of the topic, it may be beneficial to make an educated guess rather than leaving a question blank. However, if you have no knowledge of the topic, guessing may not be helpful and could potentially result in losing points. It is important to weigh the risks and benefits and make a decision based on your own understanding and familiarity with the material.

4. How many points can I expect to lose on a quantitative test if I leave 3 questions blank?

The number of points lost on a quantitative test for leaving 3 questions blank will depend on the total number of questions on the test and how many points each question is worth. For example, if there are 50 questions and each question is worth 2 points, leaving 3 questions blank would result in a loss of 6 points. It is important to read the instructions and understand the point value of each question to determine the potential point loss for leaving questions blank.

5. Are there any strategies I can use to improve my performance on quantitative tests?

Yes, there are several strategies that can help improve performance on quantitative tests. These include practicing and reviewing material beforehand, carefully reading and understanding each question, showing all work and calculations, and double checking answers. It may also be helpful to break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts and to use process of elimination when selecting an answer. Additionally, managing time effectively and staying calm and focused during the test can also improve performance.

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