MCAT assertion incorrect

I agree with the overall positive view expressed in The Chronicle article of Nov. 18, 2005 with regard to the computer-based MCAT.  There will be a number of advantages to the computer-based format.  However, I wanted to clarify a misconception that I have heard from some students and that also appears in your editorial ("A new test, a new test culture," Nov. 29 issue).  You state, "Students cannot skip sections or return to check their answers."   This is misleading.  There are four sections on the MCAT-Verbal Reasoning, Physical Sciences, Biological Sciences and a Writing Sample.  MCAT takers have never been able to go back to one of those sections after it was completed.  Within a section, the paper and pencil test allowed applicants to answer questions in any order and return to questions to go over and to change answers as they wished-until the time was called for that section.  The same will be true with the computer based format of the MCAT.  I recently confirmed this fact with Dr. Ellen Julian, VP of the Association of American Medical Colleges and Director of the MCAT.

Dean Kay Singer

Director, Health Profession Advising Center