Guide to GAMSAT Section 1 Fiction Questions

Section 1 of the GAMSAT contains fictional writing in various different formats; here is a guide to the most common types of fictional pieces that arise in section 1. Follow this guide and check out our online GAMSAT tutorial course to ensure top marks in section 1 of the GAMSAT!

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GAMSAT Fiction Short Story Questions

Fiction short story questions tend to be a bit trickier than other types of questions in section 1 of the GAMSAT. This is because the stories can be complex and are of course made up!

Always read the entire story first before looking at the questions. This will end up saving you time overall as it prevents you from missing small but significant details. There are a few things to look out for whilst reading a short story, these include:

The Main Idea – Be aware of the main idea, the plot and the meaning of the story

The characters and authors’ attitudes – Consider the attitudes and feelings of the characters and the author throughout the passage. Also be aware of any relationships between the characters and how they might develop throughout. 

Genre – Become familiar with different genres and practice categorising stories into these. 

Setting – Identify the physical, social and historical context of the story.

Check out our online GAMSAT tutorial course for videos on worked examples of fiction short stories and more tips to achieve high marks in section 1 of the GAMSAT!

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    GAMSAT Fiction Novel Questions

    Fictional novel questions are guaranteed in section 1 of the GAMSAT therefore improvement in this area is sure to increase your GAMSAT score! The novel passages might be long but I definitely recommend taking the time to read the entire passage first before moving on to the questions. This will save time overall as you will not have to refer back to the text as much when answering the questions. 

    As with other types of questions in section 1 of the GAMSAT, it’s vital you are familiar with different writing styles and literary terms. The best way to familiarise yourself with different writing styles is simply to read! Try to read from a range of different sources, such as novels, fictional articles, short stories. With regard to the literary terms, here is a list of the most common terms that appear on the GAMSAT:

    • Adage
    • Allegory
    • Archetype
    • Hamartia
    • Hyperbole
    • Irony
    • Metaphor
    • Paradox
    • Personification
    • Protagonist
    • Simile
    • Satire
    • Symbolism

    To achieve top marks in fictional novel questions, check out our online GAMSAT course! The course includes video tutorials on the individual types of questions that commonly appear in section 1 of the GAMSAT with in depth analysis and worked sample question. 

    GAMSAT Play & Dialogue Questions

    Plays and dialogues commonly come up in section 1 of the GAMSAT. They can be difficult to interpret as there may be more than one character speaking and the setting may be unknown. Another element that makes them difficult is that Shakespearean plays can appear in section 1 of the GAMSAT. Therefore it’s worth taking the time to read some Shakespearean passages to become familiar with the language and style of sentences used!

    Here are some tips that are universal to interpreting all plays and dialogues in the GAMSAT:

    • Pay attention to the speaker and setting
    • Appreciate views and reactions of characters
    • Interpret characteristics of the characters
    • Interrelate and identify connections

    For worked sample questions and more in depth analysis of plays and dialogues, check out our online GAMSAT course

    GAMSAT Online Course
    70+ Video Tutorials, GAMSAT Questions & Textbook
    Join now£99
    Download Free GAMSAT Notes

      Frequently Asked Question

      →What is the GAMSAT Section 1 Fiction Questions?

      The GAMSAT Section 1 Fiction Questions is a component of the Graduate Australian Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT). It is designed to test candidates’ comprehension, analytical and reasoning skills using various works of fiction as stimulus materials.

      →How many Fiction Questions are in GAMSAT Section 1?

      There are typically 40 questions in the GAMSAT Section 1, with approximately 10 of them being Fiction Questions.

      →What type of Fiction Questions are asked in GAMSAT Section 1?

      The Fiction Questions in GAMSAT Section 1 usually cover a range of genres and styles, such as contemporary fiction, classic literature, and short stories. The questions require candidates to analyze, interpret and evaluate various elements of the text, including character, plot, theme, and language use.

      →What is the format of GAMSAT Section 1 Fiction Questions?

      The Fiction Questions in GAMSAT Section 1 typically consist of a short passage of fiction, followed by a series of multiple-choice questions. Candidates are given a set amount of time to read the passage and answer the questions.

      →How can I prepare for GAMSAT Section 1 Fiction Questions?

      To prepare for the Fiction Questions in GAMSAT Section 1, it is important to read widely and regularly. You should familiarize yourself with a variety of genres, styles, and literary techniques. You can also practice answering past GAMSAT Section 1 questions, paying attention to the types of questions asked, the format of the exam, and the time constraints.

      →What skills are required to perform well in GAMSAT Section 1 Fiction Questions?

      To perform well in GAMSAT Section 1 Fiction Questions, candidates must have strong reading comprehension and analytical skills, as well as the ability to interpret and analyze literary texts. Candidates should be able to identify key themes and ideas in the text, understand the author’s use of language and literary techniques, and make logical and well-supported arguments based on the information provided.

      →What are some tips for answering GAMSAT Section 1 Fiction Questions?

      Some tips for answering GAMSAT Section 1 Fiction Questions include reading the passage carefully and taking notes on key themes and ideas, paying attention to the author’s use of language and literary techniques, and identifying the main argument or message of the text. Candidates should also carefully read each question and all the answer options before choosing the best answer, and should support their answer with evidence from the text whenever possible.

      →How important are GAMSAT Section 1 Fiction Questions?

      The Fiction Questions in GAMSAT Section 1 are a crucial component of the exam, as they test candidates’ ability to understand and analyze complex literary texts. These skills are essential for success in medical school and beyond, as they are crucial for effective communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

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