Getting Started on GAMSAT Prep: 5 Key Things to Know

In this article, we will provide you with essential insights and strategies to kickstart your GAMSAT preparation. We understand the unique nature of the GAMSAT exam and the specific skills it assesses.

Let's delve into the key things you need to know to begin your GAMSAT preparation on the right foot.

1. Understanding the GAMSAT Exam

The GAMSAT exam is not your typical university exam. It is a psychometric test that evaluates your logical thinking and cognitive abilities. Unlike traditional exams that focus on knowledge, GAMSAT is designed to gauge your capacity for clear and concise reasoning when presented with complex information. So your GAMSAT prep should differ from University exam.

To illustrate this, let's consider a scenario: Imagine you are a doctor who has completed medical school and is now an intern. A new patient comes to you with a highly rare condition, and their primary symptom is vomiting. This condition is so uncommon that you have never seen, studied, or even heard of it before. However, you are provided with a few crucial details about the patient's vomiting, such as its colour, appearance, and the events leading up to it.

In this situation, the GAMSAT exam, much like the medical field itself, aims to determine your response. Are you the type of student who would panic and feel completely unsure of how to approach such a rare condition? Or would you be able to think critically, reason logically, and make informed decisions based on the given information?

It's important to note that the GAMSAT exam goes beyond the expectation of merely regurgitating knowledge or relying solely on essay-writing skills acquired from books or podcasts. Instead, it challenges you to analyse a given theme or information and develop a logical, sensible, and engaging response.

2. Start Planning in Advance

Early planning and preparation are crucial for GAMSAT success. To effectively allocate your time, we recommend following the FAS approach: Fundamentals, Application, and Simulation.

• Fundamentals: In the initial phase focus on building a strong foundation. Obtain a resource of GAMSAT-style questions and approach them with a logic-based mindset. Analyse your thinking process and understand why you may have answered questions incorrectly.
• Application: As you progress, shift your focus to applying what you've learned. Continue practicing with more questions, aiming for accuracy and consistency.
• Simulation: In the final stretch simulate the exam environment by taking mock papers. This helps you familiarize yourself with the time constraints and conditions of the actual GAMSAT exam.

3. Reflection (Learning from Mistakes) is the Key

Reflection is a vital aspect of GAMSAT preparation, as it allows you to learn from your mistakes and improve your performance. By examining the thought processes that led to incorrect answers, you can gain valuable insights into your thinking patterns and make necessary adjustments.

For example, let's say you encountered a stem on poetry and selected the wrong answer (B) instead of the correct answer (A). Through reflection, you can analyse why you made that choice. You might recall that you were thinking about XYZ factors, which led you to select option B. However, upon reflection, you realize that focusing on ABC factors would have led to the correct answer. This process of reflection helps you identify the flaws in your thinking and guides you towards developing a more effective approach.

Reflection is particularly important because the GAMSAT is a logic-based exam that assesses your ability to think critically and make reasoned judgments. If you find yourself consistently getting questions wrong, it indicates that your thinking process may be flawed and not based on sound reasoning or good judgment. By reflecting on and understanding the thought processes that led to incorrect answers, you can strive to change your approach and develop a more accurate and logical way of thinking.

‍GAMSAT Section 1 Question Log

‍GAMSAT Section 3 Question Log

4. Effective GAMSAT Study Strategies

To maximize your GAMSAT study sessions, consider the following strategies:

• Time Management: Determine how much time you have available for preparation and create a study schedule that suits your needs. Check out our GAMSAT study planner which may come handy for you to create the study schedule.
• ‍Content Familiarization: While science subjects are important, remember that logic plays a significant role. Ensure you understand the underlying principles and apply them effectively.‍
• Practice and Review: Regularly practice with GAMSAT-style questions and thoroughly review your answers. Focus on areas where you face challenges.‍
• Seek Guidance: Consider joining study groups, seeking help from tutors, or utilizing online resources to enhance your understanding and learning experience.

5. Getting Started with GAMSAT Prep

If you're starting from scratch, you may wonder how to approach GAMSAT preparation. Here are some practical steps to guide you:‍

• ‍Set Clear Goals: Define your objectives and establish realistic study goals to keep yourself motivated and on track.
• ‍Assess Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Identify the subjects or areas where you need improvement and prioritize them in your study plan.
• ‍Seek Support: Connect with peers, join online communities, and engage in discussions to share knowledge, tips, and encouragement throughout your GAMSAT journey.
• ‍Utilize Learning Resources: When it comes to GAMSAT preparation, selecting the right study resources is crucial for success. At Fraser's, we understand the importance of having access to comprehensive and reliable materials that cover each section of the exam. That's why we offer a wealth of resources to support your GAMSAT journey.

For GAMSAT Section 1, start with reading our article that focuses on enhancing your reasoning and interpretation skills. This resource is designed to give you an in depth understanding of Section 1. GAMSAT Section 2 requires strong essay writing skills. We have a dedicated resource that will help you get an in depth understanding of Section 2. This resource offers valuable guidance the purpose of Section 2, and what this means for GAMSAT Section 2 essay preparation 

GAMSAT Section 3 demands a solid foundation in scientific and mathematical concepts. This article provides better understand the GAMSAT. By dissecting this section at a fundamental level, we can begin to look at the possible ways any students can achieve a high section 3 score.

In addition to these section-specific resources, Fraser's GAMSAT offers free access to Fraser’s Learning Academy (LMS) that serves as a central hub for your preparation. Our LMS provides a range of features to support your learning, including practice questions, mock exams, personalized feedback, and progress tracking. With our LMS, you can effectively monitor your performance, identify areas of improvement, and track your progress throughout your GAMSAT preparation.‍

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

How long should I prepare for the GAMSAT?

The recommended timeframe for GAMSAT preparation is typically between 3 to 6 months. While the three-month plan is not an absolute requirement, it serves as a safe preparation timeline for an average biomedical science student. It allows for comprehensive coverage of the exam content and sufficient practice. However, it's important to adjust your study plan based on your individual circumstances and level of preparedness. 

Remember, quality study sessions and consistent practice are key factors in GAMSAT success.

Is six months enough for GAMSAT preparation? 

Six months can be sufficient for GAMSAT preparation, provided you have a well-structured study plan, dedicate sufficient time to practice, and focus on developing your logical reasoning skills. It is crucial to make the most of the time available and utilize reliable resources to enhance your preparation.

How do I study for the GAMSAT from scratch? 

If you are starting your GAMSAT preparation from scratch, begin by assessing your weaknesses and prioritizing your study accordingly. Create a study schedule that allows ample time for each subject, and be consistent in following it. Utilize available resources such as Fraser's Free Learning Academy, which offers comprehensive support and study materials tailored to GAMSAT preparation.

How can reflection help in GAMSAT preparation? 

Reflection plays a vital role in GAMSAT preparation. By analysing the thought processes that led to incorrect answers, you can identify patterns in your thinking and rectify them. This process enhances your logical reasoning abilities and helps you avoid repeating the same mistakes. Utilize reflection tools such as Fraser's reflection log for section 1 & section 3 to track your progress and improve your performance.‍

Why is logic more important than knowledge in GAMSAT?

GAMSAT is designed to assess your logical thinking and reasoning abilities rather than pure knowledge. While a foundational understanding of scientific concepts is necessary, the exam primarily evaluates your ability to think critically and solve complex problems. Developing your logical reasoning skills is crucial for success in the GAMSAT exam.