H Brittany,

How efficiently are you eliminating answer choices? A lot of times, when we have trouble putting our finger on what the author believes and their opinion isn't obvious, it can be easier to eliminate what we know can't be correct. Then, whatever is left, don't spend too much energy trying to validate it. If it isn't what the author doesn't believe, then it has to be the correct answer. Remember, there are no perfect answer choices -- sometimes, just the best answer from a really poor list.

If you're being misled by questions and answer choices, try to restate the question in your own words. Since you just read the passage, a lot of the times your words will borrow from what you just read. This can be a really effective way to rephrase the question in a way that leads you to the correct answer choice.

And, very often, more practice is just what is needed to get a better feel for the wording of the passages. Try to focus your attention on the AAMC material, since that will be closest to your actual exam.

Sincerely,
Meaghan