Preparing for the MCAT can be an overwhelming experience for many students, especially when it comes to the science sections. With a vast range of topics across biochemistry, biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology, it can be challenging to determine just how much knowledge you need to succeed. However, rather than obsessing over memorizing every single detail, a more effective strategy is to focus on understanding core principles that will allow you to apply scientific concepts in a variety of situations. This article will discuss how to approach science preparation for the MCAT, providing insight into which topics to prioritize and why.
The MCAT: A Test of Conceptual Understanding, Not Memorization
The MCAT is not a traditional exam that tests your ability to memorize and regurgitate facts. While factual knowledge is important, the MCAT is designed to test your ability to apply what you know in new and challenging contexts. The exam is structured in such a way that even if you have memorized a vast array of scientific facts, it won’t guarantee success unless you can connect those facts with other information and demonstrate critical thinking.
Understanding this core principle should shape your preparation strategy. Instead of trying to memorize every minor detail of each topic, focus on gaining a deep understanding of the essential principles and concepts that govern the different scientific disciplines. Whether it’s understanding how the laws of thermodynamics apply to biological systems or recognizing the fundamental biochemical pathways that drive human metabolism, building a strong foundation in these core concepts will enable you to approach questions with confidence and clarity.
The MCAT Science Sections: What You Need to Know
The MCAT consists of several science-based sections, each designed to assess different areas of knowledge. These include biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and social and biological foundations of behavior. Let’s break down each of these sections to understand which topics are critical for success and how much you should focus on each one.
Biology and Biochemistry: Focus on Core Principles
Biology and biochemistry make up a significant portion of the MCAT, and while memorizing facts about cellular structures or biochemical reactions is important, it’s even more critical to understand how these concepts fit into larger biological systems. For example, rather than simply memorizing the steps of the Krebs cycle, think about how it relates to cellular respiration and energy production.
Key concepts in this section include genetics, molecular biology, metabolism, and physiology. A strong understanding of cell biology and biochemistry is vital, as many of the MCAT’s most challenging questions rely on applying these concepts to real-world situations. Focusing on understanding how these topics intersect will help you perform better in this section.
Chemistry: Build Conceptual Understanding
Like biology, chemistry questions on the MCAT test your understanding of underlying principles, such as chemical reactions, molecular interactions, and equilibrium. Organic chemistry is often cited as one of the most challenging areas, but instead of simply memorizing reaction mechanisms, focus on understanding how different chemical compounds interact with one another, particularly in biological systems.
In general, the chemistry section of the MCAT includes general chemistry, organic chemistry, and biochemistry. Organic chemistry, while complex, can be navigated with the right understanding of functional groups, reaction types, and molecular structures. In general chemistry, focus on principles like acids and bases, thermodynamics, and kinetics, as these concepts are foundational to many questions in the MCAT.
Physics: Understand the Principles Behind the Equations
Physics is another area that can seem daunting due to its heavy reliance on equations and formulas. However, the key to excelling in this section is not just memorizing equations but understanding the principles behind them. Focus on learning how concepts like energy, force, motion, and electricity apply to biological systems.
While mathematical calculations are important, they are not the primary focus of the MCAT physics section. Instead, conceptual understanding is paramount. You will be expected to think critically about how physical laws govern biological phenomena, such as how the body responds to forces, how light affects vision, or how fluids move through the circulatory system.
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior
This section assesses your understanding of psychology, sociology, and the biological foundations of behavior. While it is not as heavily focused on scientific principles as the other sections, it still requires a strong conceptual understanding of how the mind and behavior function. Key concepts in this section include cognitive processes, human development, and the influence of social structures on individual behavior.
To excel in this section, focus on understanding theories of human behavior, psychological disorders, and the impact of genetics and environment on mental health. Critical thinking is crucial in answering questions that integrate behavioral sciences with other biological concepts.
Approach to Studying: Quality Over Quantity
With so many topics to cover, it can be easy to fall into the trap of trying to memorize everything. However, it’s important to remember that quality is more important than quantity when it comes to MCAT preparation. An in-depth understanding of key concepts will serve you better than surface-level knowledge of a wide range of topics.
A strategic approach to studying should prioritize:
- Core Concepts: Identify the most important principles in each scientific discipline and ensure you have a deep understanding of these foundational ideas.
- Practice Questions: Apply your knowledge through practice questions and exams. The more you engage with the types of questions on the MCAT, the better prepared you will be for test day.
- Integration of Knowledge: Recognize the connections between different scientific disciplines. The MCAT is designed to test your ability to integrate information from various fields, so focus on how concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics intersect with one another.
- Active Learning: Instead of passively reading through textbooks, engage with the material through active learning techniques. This can include teaching the concepts to others, creating mind maps, or using flashcards to reinforce your memory.
Making the Most of Your MCAT Preparation Time
Time management is an essential aspect of MCAT preparation. Given the vast amount of material to cover, you must allocate your time efficiently to ensure that you are thoroughly prepared for all aspects of the exam. Prioritize your study sessions based on your strengths and weaknesses, focusing on the areas where you need the most improvement while maintaining a solid understanding of the areas you already know well.
Consider breaking down your study schedule into blocks of focused study time, with periodic breaks to avoid burnout. Regularly assess your progress through practice exams to determine which areas require more focus and which concepts you have already mastered.
In conclusion, succeeding on the MCAT requires more than just memorizing scientific facts, it demands a strong understanding of core principles that can be applied across various situations. By focusing on conceptual knowledge, connecting ideas across disciplines, and practicing consistently, you can build the necessary foundation to perform well on the exam. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we will delve deeper into specific strategies for mastering each scientific discipline and making the most of your MCAT prep time.
Applying Scientific Knowledge: Mastering the MCAT with Critical Thinking
In the first part of this series, we explored the importance of building a strong foundation in the core scientific concepts required for the MCAT. Now that we understand the significance of mastering the basics, the focus shifts to one of the most critical elements of the MCAT: the application of that knowledge. The test is not just about remembering facts—it’s about using your understanding to solve complex, multi-faceted problems. This part of the article will delve into how to approach the MCAT by sharpening your ability to apply scientific knowledge in practical, real-world contexts.
The MCAT: A Test of Applied Knowledge
The MCAT is structured to assess your ability to think critically and apply scientific principles across a range of different scenarios. Each section of the MCAT challenges you to integrate your knowledge of biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology in new and often unfamiliar ways. Success on the exam, therefore, is not solely about memorization but about utilizing your foundational understanding to navigate complex problems.
Whether you’re interpreting experimental data, analyzing scientific passages, or answering questions based on hypothetical scenarios, the ability to apply your knowledge is essential. In this section, we will explore strategies to enhance your ability to effectively apply what you have learned and tackle MCAT questions with confidence.
Understanding the Science Behind MCAT Questions
MCAT questions often take the form of passages that present scientific scenarios, followed by a series of questions that require interpretation and analysis. These questions are not just about recalling facts; rather, they are about understanding the principles behind the information presented and applying them to answer specific questions.
For example, a passage in the biology section may describe an experiment about enzyme activity, and the question might ask how the pH of the environment affects the enzyme’s function. To answer this question, you need more than just a memorized fact about pH—what’s required is an understanding of enzyme structure, the impact of environmental conditions on enzymes, and the ability to synthesize these concepts into a coherent answer.
This type of question is designed to test your ability to think critically and apply your knowledge, rather than just recalling rote information. Therefore, it’s essential to practice not just recall, but also application, with particular focus on the scientific principles that underpin the MCAT questions.
Techniques for Applying Scientific Knowledge on the MCAT
Now that we understand the importance of applying knowledge, let’s discuss the techniques that will help you sharpen your application skills.
Focus on Problem-Solving, Not Just Memorization
One of the most effective ways to prepare for the MCAT is by practicing problem-solving. While memorizing facts is important, the MCAT assesses how well you can use your knowledge to solve problems in different contexts. Therefore, focus on practicing questions that require you to apply concepts rather than just recall them.
For example, in the biochemistry section, you may be asked to predict the outcome of a biochemical reaction under certain conditions. Instead of memorizing the steps of the reaction, try to understand the underlying mechanisms and how changes in the environment (such as temperature or pH) could affect the reaction. By honing your problem-solving skills, you will be better prepared for the types of complex, application-based questions on the exam.
Break Down Complex Questions
When faced with a challenging MCAT question, it’s important to break it down into smaller, manageable pieces. Start by identifying the key scientific concepts being tested in the question, and then use your foundational knowledge to address each part. By deconstructing the question in this way, you can avoid feeling overwhelmed and ensure that you are addressing all the necessary components of the problem.
Let’s consider an example: You are given a passage describing the physiological changes that occur during exercise, followed by a question asking about the relationship between heart rate and oxygen consumption. Instead of panicking at the complexity of the question, break it down into steps—identify what you know about heart rate, oxygen consumption, and how they are related during physical activity, and then use that information to answer the question. This systematic approach will help you apply your knowledge more effectively.
Practice Active Recall and Application
Active recall is a highly effective learning technique in which you test yourself on the material you’ve learned, rather than passively reviewing notes. To enhance your ability to apply your knowledge, practice active recall with questions that require you to explain concepts in your own words, solve problems, or apply scientific principles to new scenarios.
For example, after studying a concept like the Krebs cycle, test yourself by explaining how changes in certain conditions (such as oxygen availability) could affect the cycle. By constantly challenging yourself to apply your knowledge in different contexts, you reinforce your understanding and improve your ability to apply it on the exam.
Connect Concepts Across Disciplines
The MCAT frequently tests your ability to integrate knowledge from multiple scientific disciplines. A question might involve both biology and chemistry, requiring you to apply concepts from both fields in a cohesive way. For instance, a question might ask you to apply your understanding of protein structure (from biochemistry) to explain how enzymes function (from biology).
To effectively tackle these integrated questions, it’s essential to connect concepts across disciplines. When studying, try to make connections between the different topics you’re learning. For example, understand how biological processes rely on chemical reactions or how physical principles apply to biological systems. By integrating knowledge across fields, you will be better equipped to answer questions that require you to synthesize information from different areas.
The Role of Practice Exams in Application
One of the best ways to practice applying your knowledge is by taking full-length practice exams. These exams simulate the real test experience and provide an opportunity to apply everything you’ve learned in a timed environment. Moreover, practice exams expose you to the types of questions that you will encounter on the MCAT, allowing you to fine-tune your test-taking strategies.
As you take practice exams, pay attention not only to the content of the questions but also to how they are framed. Practice questions often test your ability to apply concepts in nuanced ways, so reviewing them carefully will help you identify patterns in question types and enhance your problem-solving skills.
After completing a practice exam, spend time reviewing the questions you got wrong. Focus on understanding why the correct answer is right and why your answer was incorrect. This reflection process will deepen your understanding of the material and improve your ability to apply your knowledge moving forward.
Cultivating Critical Thinking
The MCAT is designed to challenge your ability to think critically about scientific principles and their application. To perform well, you need to cultivate a mindset that is analytical, open to new ideas, and willing to challenge assumptions. Practice thinking critically about the material, ask yourself why certain principles are true, and explore how they can be applied in various situations. The more you practice critical thinking, the more equipped you will be to handle the diverse range of questions on the exam.
The Path to MCAT Success Lies in Application
In conclusion, the key to mastering the MCAT lies not in memorization but in the application of scientific knowledge. By developing problem-solving skills, practicing active recall, breaking down complex questions, and connecting concepts across disciplines, you can significantly enhance your ability to apply what you’ve learned. Use practice exams to hone your application skills and always focus on understanding the “why” behind the science.
As you continue your preparation, remember that critical thinking and the ability to integrate and apply knowledge are at the heart of MCAT success. In the next part of this series, we will explore specific strategies for tackling the different science sections of the MCAT, ensuring that you are well-prepared to approach the test with confidence.
Scientific Integration and Time Management for MCAT Success
As we continue to delve into the complexities of the MCAT, it’s important to understand that success isn’t just about having a strong grasp of scientific concepts or applying knowledge effectively; it’s also about managing your time, synthesizing information, and integrating all that you’ve learned to tackle the exam efficiently. In this part of the series, we will explore the essential strategies for mastering time management and scientific integration, two vital aspects of MCAT success.
The Challenge of Time Management on the MCAT
One of the most common challenges students face when preparing for the MCAT is time management. The test is designed to assess not only your scientific knowledge but also your ability to work efficiently under pressure. With each section containing a large number of questions, you must pace yourself carefully to ensure you have enough time to answer every question with thoughtfulness and accuracy. Mastering time management is crucial to performing well on the MCAT.
Understanding the MCAT’s Structure and Time Constraints
The MCAT is divided into four sections: Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems, Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems, Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior, and Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS). Each section has its time constraints, and while the time limits are generous compared to many standardized tests, the large volume of material covered makes it essential to manage your time wisely.
- Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems – 95 minutes for 59 questions
- Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems – 95 minutes for 59 questions
- Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior – 95 minutes for 59 questions
- Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) – 90 minutes for 53 questions
As you can see, the time limits are tight, and you need to balance speed with accuracy. The key to managing this challenge lies in practice, strategic planning, and making every second count. Let’s explore the strategies that will help you master time management during the MCAT.
Effective Time Management Techniques
Practice with Full-Length Timed Exams
The most effective way to improve your time management skills is by practicing with full-length, timed exams. These exams simulate the real test experience, giving you a realistic sense of how much time you can afford to spend on each question. They also allow you to practice the pacing you’ll need to maintain throughout the exam.
Start by taking full-length exams early in your preparation process, but don’t focus too much on your score at first. Instead, focus on pacing—how long you are spending on each question and whether you can maintain the pace required to finish each section. Over time, you’ll get a sense of how much time you should spend per question and how to prioritize the most challenging questions without letting them eat up too much time.
Know When to Move On
One of the hardest lessons to learn on the MCAT is knowing when to move on from a question. There will be times when a question stumps you or you find yourself spending too much time trying to recall a detail or figure out a solution. The key to managing time effectively is not to linger on difficult questions. You need to learn to recognize when you’re spending too much time on one problem and when it’s better to guess, mark the question, and move on.
In each section, allocate a rough amount of time per question. Typically, you’ll have around 1 minute and 30 seconds per question, but some questions will require more time while others will be quicker. If a question is taking longer than this average, don’t let it derail your entire section. Mark it for review and come back to it later if time allows.
Utilize Strategic Skipping and Review
Strategic skipping is an essential time management skill. If you encounter a question you find confusing or difficult, it may be better to skip it initially and return to it later when you’ve answered the other questions. The MCAT allows you to mark questions for review, so don’t hesitate to use this feature to your advantage. Skip tough questions and return to them if you have time left in the section.
Reviewing flagged questions will allow you to reconsider answers you might have been unsure about. Many times, after completing the easier questions in a section, you’ll find that you have a clearer understanding of the more difficult ones. This approach can often lead to better, more accurate answers without compromising your time.
Practice Efficient Question Reading
The MCAT doesn’t just test your ability to solve problems—it also tests your ability to read and comprehend complex passages quickly. In sections that require reading comprehension, such as the Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems or CARS sections, you’ll need to practice reading with efficiency.
- Skim the Passage: Quickly skim the passage before diving into the questions. Try to get a sense of the main ideas and the structure of the passage. This will allow you to navigate the questions more efficiently.
- Read Strategically: Focus on the key points in the passage, such as definitions, conclusions, and data presented. Avoid getting bogged down in details that aren’t directly related to the questions.
- Answer Questions Based on the Passage: After reading the passage, answer the questions based on the information you just read. Don’t second-guess yourself unless you’re unsure. The MCAT questions are designed to be answered directly from the passage, and overthinking can waste precious time.
Scientific Integration: Bridging Knowledge Gaps
The MCAT tests your ability to integrate knowledge from multiple scientific disciplines. One of the hallmarks of the exam is its interdisciplinary nature—questions often require you to combine principles from biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology to answer a single question. This integration of knowledge is not only vital for success on the exam but also mirrors the way medical professionals need to synthesize diverse fields of knowledge when making patient care decisions.
Building Bridges Between Disciplines
On the MCAT, you will often find questions that require you to apply knowledge from multiple disciplines to answer them effectively. For example, a question in the chemical and physical foundations section may involve understanding the principles of thermodynamics (physics) in the context of biochemical reactions (biology). To succeed on such questions, it is essential to understand how concepts overlap between subjects.
When studying, try to make connections between the disciplines. For instance, when studying cell biology, also review the chemical principles that underlie biochemical processes like enzyme activity or the transport of molecules across membranes. When studying physics, think about how the principles of energy transfer apply to biological systems, such as the way muscles work or how the heart pumps blood. This integrated approach will prepare you for the types of questions that require interdisciplinary knowledge.
Practice Scientific Integration with Cross-Disciplinary Questions
To enhance your ability to apply knowledge across different subjects, practice with questions that integrate multiple disciplines. You can find these types of questions in MCAT practice exams, review books, or online resources. These questions are designed to mimic the interdisciplinary nature of the actual MCAT and will help you become more comfortable with integrating scientific concepts.
The more you practice this skill, the more you will improve your ability to draw connections between different areas of knowledge. Over time, this integration will become second nature, allowing you to answer complex questions efficiently during the actual test.
Review Fundamental Concepts in Context
One of the most effective ways to build your ability to integrate scientific knowledge is to review fundamental concepts in context. For example, when reviewing the concepts of chemistry, focus on understanding how they relate to biological processes. Instead of studying chemical reactions in isolation, consider how enzymes catalyze reactions in the body and how changes in pH or temperature affect enzyme function.
Similarly, in physics, focus on understanding how physical principles, such as fluid dynamics or mechanics, apply to biological systems. For example, consider how blood flows through the circulatory system in terms of pressure gradients and resistance.
By reviewing concepts in context, you will develop a deeper understanding of how they interrelate and how to apply them effectively to solve MCAT questions.
Mastering Scientific Integration and Time Management
As you approach the MCAT, mastering both time management and scientific integration is essential for success. Practice with full-length, timed exams, develop efficient reading and answering strategies, and build connections between scientific disciplines to enhance your ability to solve complex, interdisciplinary questions. Effective time management will allow you to pace yourself and answer all questions thoughtfully, while scientific integration will enable you to tackle questions that require you to apply knowledge across multiple domains.
Advanced Strategies for MCAT Mastery – Focused Review and Test-Day Success
As we near the conclusion of this comprehensive MCAT preparation series, we dive into the final critical aspects of mastering the exam: focused review, optimal test-day strategies, and maintaining peak performance under pressure. In this part of the series, we will discuss advanced review techniques, how to avoid common pitfalls on test day, and the mental preparation needed to ensure that you are fully prepared when the time comes to take the MCAT.
Focused Review: Maximizing Your Study Sessions
After months of preparation, it’s time to shift your study strategy toward a more targeted and focused approach. As you near your exam date, general content review becomes less effective, and it’s time to refine your knowledge by honing in on weak areas, ensuring that you have a thorough understanding of complex concepts, and reinforcing your ability to answer challenging questions accurately.
Identify Weak Areas with Targeted Practice
By now, you should have a clear sense of your strengths and weaknesses across the various MCAT subjects. It’s crucial to identify these weak spots early in your preparation process and consistently revisit them in the weeks leading up to the exam.
Start by reviewing your practice exam results. Which areas did you score lower in? Are there specific topics—such as biochemistry pathways or physics concepts—that consistently trip you up? Focus on these areas in your review sessions. Use question banks, review books, or online resources that offer targeted practice in these subjects.
Moreover, focus on areas where you made conceptual errors, rather than just procedural mistakes. For instance, if you answered a question incorrectly about the Krebs cycle because you misunderstood the function of NADH, it’s more effective to go back and review the concept of electron transport rather than simply retaking similar questions. Understanding why you made a mistake is often more important than practicing similar questions over and over.
Active Recall and Spaced Repetition
Two of the most effective review techniques as your exam date approaches are active recall and spaced repetition. Both of these methods are based on research that shows how memory retention improves when you repeatedly retrieve information from long-term memory and space out the intervals between review sessions.
- Active Recall involves testing yourself on the material you’ve studied without looking at your notes. This could be through practice questions, flashcards, or verbal quizzes. By recalling information, your brain strengthens its neural pathways, improving memory retention and deepening your understanding of complex concepts.
- Spaced Repetition refers to the practice of reviewing material at increasing intervals. The idea is that the more you revisit material, the longer it will stay in your long-term memory. Apps like Anki or Quizlet can help automate spaced repetition, allowing you to focus your study time efficiently.
When combined, these techniques ensure that you are actively engaging with the content, which is far more effective than passive review methods like rereading notes or textbooks.
Review with High-Yield Resources
Focus your review on high-yield material—the concepts and topics that appear frequently on the MCAT and that carry the most weight across the four sections. High-yield content often includes foundational biological systems, organic chemistry reactions, biochemical pathways, and psychological theories. Review materials that have been specifically designed for MCAT preparation, such as Kaplan’s MCAT review books, The Princeton Review’s MCAT prep materials, or UWorld question banks. These resources are tailored to the exam’s structure and often highlight the most important concepts.
Focusing on high-yield content allows you to maximize the time spent in review without getting bogged down in obscure topics that are unlikely to appear on the exam.
Test-Day Preparation: Setting Yourself Up for Success
The MCAT is a long and intense exam, and how you prepare on the day of the test can have a profound impact on your performance. On test day, you need to maintain focus, stay calm under pressure, and execute your strategies with precision.
Get Plenty of Rest
Although it might be tempting to cram the night before the exam, it is essential to get a full night’s rest. Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation and cognitive function, and being well-rested ensures that you can think, maintain focus, and stay alert throughout the entire test.
The night before the exam, try to avoid late-night studying and focus on winding down instead. Prepare your materials (ID, snacks, etc.), ensure you know the testing location, and relax. You’ve put in the work, and a good night’s sleep is the best preparation.
Pack Your Essentials
On the morning of the exam, make sure you have everything you need. Some essentials include:
- A valid ID (passport or driver’s license)
- Your MCAT scheduling permit
- Approved snacks and water for breaks
- Comfortable clothing for a long day (it can get cold in some testing centers)
- Pencils, erasers, and other permitted writing materials
Prepare these items the night before, so you don’t feel rushed in the morning. Ensuring that you have everything ready to go will help reduce test-day anxiety.
Arrive Early and Stay Calm
On the day of the exam, arrive at the testing center early to allow yourself time to check in and get settled. Arriving early will also prevent you from feeling rushed, which can increase anxiety.
Once you’re in the testing room, take a few moments to center yourself. Remember, the MCAT is just one step in your journey toward becoming a healthcare professional, and while it’s important, it does not define your entire future. Maintain a calm and composed attitude, focus on each question as it comes, and stay positive.
Test-Taking Strategies: Maximizing Performance
While test day preparation is critical, executing effective strategies during the exam is equally important. The MCAT requires a combination of critical thinking, strategy, and stamina. Let’s explore strategies that can help you optimize your performance during the test.
Prioritize Understanding Over Memorization
While rote memorization may help you recall facts, the MCAT is designed to test your understanding and application of scientific principles. Focus on understanding concepts deeply rather than simply memorizing isolated facts. For example, instead of memorizing the steps of glycolysis, understand the biochemical principles behind energy production and enzyme function. This will help you tackle questions that require application rather than simple recall.
Skip and Return to Tough Questions
As discussed earlier, time management is a critical aspect of the MCAT. If you encounter a question that you don’t understand immediately, don’t panic. Skip the question and move on. Once you’ve completed all the questions in the section, return to the ones you skipped. Often, you’ll find that after answering other questions, you may have a clearer perspective on the ones that stumped you.
Stay Calm Under Pressure
The MCAT is a long exam, and you may face moments of stress, especially as you near the end of a section or the test itself. It’s important to stay calm and focused throughout the exam. Deep breathing techniques and short mental breaks can help you regain focus during difficult moments. Remind yourself that you’ve prepared and that you can rely on the strategies you’ve practiced.
Conclusion
In this final part of our MCAT preparation series, we’ve covered the crucial aspects of focused review, test-day preparation, and advanced test-taking strategies. The key to success on the MCAT is a combination of consistent practice, effective review techniques, and maintaining a calm, focused mindset on test day.
As you move forward in your preparation, remember that the MCAT is just one part of the journey toward your medical career. With focused effort, a strategic approach, and the right mindset, you can achieve the score you desire and continue on the path to medical school.
Good luck, and remember: preparation is key. You’ve got this!
