Outside Knowledge on the VR Section - MCAT

Outside knowledge is definitely a big no-no on the Verbal Reasoning section, whether on natural science passages or any other type. There have been times when some of my students have known enough about a passage topic to be able to argue the point with the author; don’t do this. For the purpose of the MCAT, go with what the author says, even if you believe that s/he is full of, ahem, excrement. You are being tested on your ability to understand the author’s argument and apply it to new scenarios, NOT on the objective validity of the argument. So stay focused on the point the author is making, and don’t ever think about your own beliefs on the topic.