UCAT Decision Making Questions
The UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) is a crucial step for aspiring medical and dental students. The second subtest, Decision Making, challenges your ability to evaluate information and make informed decisions. This section isn’t just about knowledge; it also tests your critical thinking skills.
Interestingly, in 2023, the average score for Decision Making was 623, showing its moderate difficulty compared to other subtests. Mastering this section can really boost your overall UCAT score, making your application more competitive.
In this guide, we’ll dive into what the Decision Making section involves, why it’s important, and how to prepare effectively to achieve a high score.
What Is UCAT Decision Making?
The UCAT Decision Making subtest, introduced in 2016, is a critical part of the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT). Alongside Verbal Reasoning, Situational Judgement, Abstract Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning, this subtest assesses your ability to analyse information, evaluate arguments, and apply logical reasoning to make decisions. It replaces the earlier Decision Analysis subtest and is essential for gauging the decision-making skills necessary for a career in medicine.
Decision Making Test Format
The Decision Making subtest comprises 29 questions that test your ability to interpret and analyse data presented in various formats, such as text, charts, tables, graphs, and diagrams. The questions are standalone and do not share data between them. You will encounter multiple-choice questions where you select the correct answer from four options and questions that require you to respond to five statements with ‘yes’ or ‘no’.
How Long Is the UCAT Decision Making Test?
The UCAT Decision Making subtest is 31 minutes long, plus an additional 1-minute instruction section. This gives you approximately 1 minute per question, ensuring you have enough time to read, analyse, and respond to each question thoroughly.
Is UCAT Decision Making Hard?
The Decision Making subtest can be challenging due to the diverse types of questions and the need for quick, logical thinking. The complexity of interpreting data from different formats and applying logical reasoning under time pressure can make this section particularly tough. However, with practice and familiarity with the question types, you can improve your performance and manage the challenges effectively.
UCAT Decision Making Questions
In the UCAT Decision Making subtest, you’ll encounter various types of questions designed to assess your logical reasoning and decision-making skills. Here are a few examples of the types of questions you might face, along with their answers:
Example Questions
Question 1
Antioxidant supplements, often referred to as “free-radical scavengers,” were originally developed to support general health and wellbeing. These supplements are now widely marketed, claiming to combat ageing and enhance physical endurance. Yet, this trend has sparked a debate regarding self-prescribing without a thorough understanding of the potential risks and benefits. Notably, while professionals exposed to high oxidative stress, such as athletes or firefighters, might find theoretical justification for their use, the widespread adoption by the general population, including many teenagers, is harder to support.
Place “Yes” if the conclusion does follow. Place “No” if the conclusion does not follow.
- No antioxidant supplement companies recommend consulting a healthcare provider before use.
- Firefighters are regularly taking antioxidant supplements to improve their performance.
- Antioxidant supplements were not originally produced to enhance physical endurance.
- The passage suggests that teenagers may not have a solid justification for using
antioxidant supplements regularly. - The main concern regarding the use of antioxidant supplements is their potential to
disrupt natural metabolic processes.
Question 2
Samantha gathered some data indicating which fruits 210 people preferred eating during summer.
- ● 60 people did not prefer any of the fruits listed but the rest preferred at least one of the fruits: apples, bananas, or oranges
- ● 55 people preferred only bananas
- ● 40 people preferred only oranges
- ● 35 people preferred both apples and oranges, and of these 15 had a preference for all three fruits
- ● 80 people preferred apples
- ● 55 people preferred bananas
- ● 75 people preferred oranges
- How many people preferred apples but not bananas or oranges?
a. 5 - b. 10
- c. 25
- d. 35
Example Question Answers
Question 1
- No – No antioxidant supplement companies recommend consulting a healthcare provider before use. The passage does not mention whether companies recommend consultant health providers before usage so no conclusion can be made. This statement does not follow.
- No – Firefighters are regularly taking antioxidant supplements to improve their performance. While firefighters might find justification for their use, the passage does not confirm that they are regularly taking these supplements. This statement does not follow.
- Yes – Antioxidant supplements were not originally produced to enhance physical endurance. The passage suggests that the original development of antioxidant supplements was for general health and not specifically for physical endurance. This statement does follow.
- Yes – The passage suggests that teenagers may not have a solid justification for using antioxidant supplements regularly. The widespread adoption by teenagers is described as harder to support, implying a lack of solid justification. This statement does follow.
- No – The main concern regarding the use of antioxidant supplements is their potential to disrupt natural metabolic processes. The passage discusses the debate around potential risks and benefits but does not specify that disrupting natural metabolic processes is the principal concern. This statement does not follow.
Question 2: D
This is a Text to Venn Question that is best solved by drawing out a Venn Diagram to represent the information.
60 people did not prefer any of the fruits. 30 people preferred only bananas while 40 people preferred only oranges.
35 people preferred both apples and oranges, and of these 15 preferred all three fruits.
75 people preferred oranges and 55 people preferred bananas
The orange circle in the Venn Diagram already adds up to 75 so there are 0 people who preferred oranges and bananas and not apples.
The banana circle currently adds up to 45, which means there are 10 people who like apples and bananas and not oranges.
80 people preferred apples
The apple circle in the Venn Diagram currently adds up to 45 which means that there are 35 people who like apples only.
Tips for Answering Questions
- Read carefully: Make sure you understand what the question is asking before attempting to answer.
- Use logic: Apply logical reasoning and eliminate options that are clearly incorrect.
- Practice regularly: Familiarise yourself with different question types to improve your speed and accuracy.
Ready to master UCAT questions? Dive deeper into each question type with this comprehensive UCAT Question tutorial—it’s your key to sharpening those decision-making skills!
UCAT Decision Making Scores
Below is a table showing the mean scaled scores for the UCAT Decision Making subtest from 2018 to 2023:
| Year | Number of Candidates | Mean Scaled Score |
| 2018 | 27,466 | 624 |
| 2019 | 29,375 | 618 |
| 2020 | 34,153 | 625 |
| 2021 | 37,230 | 610 |
| 2022 | 36,374 | 616 |
| 2023 | 35,625 | 623 |
What Is an Average Score for UCAT Decision Making?
The average score for the UCAT Decision Making subtest varies each year, reflecting the overall performance of the candidates. From 2018 to 2023, the average scores ranged between 610 and 625. This information gives you a benchmark to gauge where your score stands in comparison to other test-takers.
What Is a Good Score for UCAT Decision Making?
A “good” score in the UCAT Decision Making subtest is typically considered to be about 20 to 30 marks above the average score for that year. For instance, based on the 2023 mean score of 623, a good score would be approximately 643 to 653. Achieving a score within this range can significantly enhance your chances of being competitive in the UCAT.
To aim for a good score, focus on consistent practice, familiarising yourself with the different types of questions, and hone your logical reasoning and decision-making skills.
How to Prepare for UCAT Decision Making
Preparing effectively for the UCAT Decision Making subtest is crucial to achieving a competitive score. Here are some key strategies and tips to help you prepare:
Know the Format
Familiarise yourself with the format of the UCAT Decision Making subtest. The test includes various question types such as logical puzzles, syllogisms, interpreting information, recognizing assumptions, Venn diagrams, and probabilistic reasoning.
The UCAT website suggests focusing on revising probability and Venn diagrams, which are specifically needed for the probabilistic reasoning and Venn diagrams questions. Knowing what to expect can help you approach each question with confidence.
Practice, Practice Practice
Practice is essential for success in the UCAT Decision Making subtest. Use UCAT practice questions and mock tests to simulate exam conditions and improve your speed and accuracy. Focus on all six types of questions to ensure you are prepared for any scenario you might face on test day.
Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses
Pay attention to the types of questions you find challenging during practice. Identify your strengths and weaknesses early on so you can allocate more time to improve areas where you need additional practice. Utilise adaptive question banks or study resources that tailor practice sessions to your individual needs.
Brush Up on Relevant Skills
Certain mathematical and logical skills are particularly useful for the Decision Making subtest. Review basic probability concepts, Venn diagrams, and logical reasoning principles. Strengthening these skills can improve your ability to tackle questions efficiently during the exam.
Manage Your Time
Manage your time effectively during the UCAT Decision Making subtest. With 31 minutes for 29 questions, aim to spend approximately 1 minute per question. Practice pacing yourself during mock tests to ensure you can complete the subtest within the allotted time without rushing or leaving questions unanswered.
Put Resources and Tools to Good Use
Take advantage of available resources such as UCAT preparation courses, question banks, and online tutorials. These resources often provide valuable insights into question-solving strategies and offer opportunities for additional practice. Familiarise yourself with the on-screen calculator and other tools provided during the exam to maximise efficiency.
You can also check out the FREE UCAT notes co-written by Kunal Dusani (who scored 900). With over 2,000 practice questions and 100+ comprehensive lessons, it’s your ultimate preparation resource.
Top 7 UCAT Decision Making Tips
Preparing effectively for the UCAT Decision Making subtest requires a strategic approach to maximise your performance. Here are seven effective tips to help you excel:
Tip #1: Master Question Types:
Become proficient in recognising and handling the various question types found in the UCAT Decision Making subtest, such as logical puzzles, syllogisms, and interpreting information. Understanding each type’s nuances will enhance your ability to respond accurately and efficiently.
Tip #2: Consistency is Key:
Regular and consistent practice is essential for mastering the Decision Making subtest. Utilise UCAT practice questions and mock exams to simulate real test conditions and refine your ability to analyse and interpret data swiftly and accurately.
Tip #3: Pace Yourself Effectively:
Manage your time during the subtest by pacing yourself appropriately. With 31 minutes allocated for 29 questions, aim to allocate approximately one minute per question. Practice pacing yourself during mock tests to ensure you can complete all questions within the allotted time frame.
Tip #4: Revise Fundamental Concepts:
Review essential concepts such as probability and Venn diagrams, which are crucial for answering questions in the probabilistic reasoning and Venn diagrams categories. Strengthening these foundational skills will streamline your problem-solving approach.
Tip #5: Utilise Test Tools:
Familiarise yourself with the on-screen calculator and note-taking tools provided during the exam. These tools are designed to aid in solving complex problems and organising information effectively. Practice using them beforehand to optimise their utility on test day.
Tip #6: Read Closely:
Carefully examine the information presented in each question. Misinterpreting data can lead to incorrect answers, so take your time to comprehend the context and details provided before selecting your response.
Tip #7: Stay Calm and Focused:
Maintain a composed and focused mindset on test day to optimise your performance. Techniques to improve focus include deep breathing exercises before the exam, maintaining a positive mindset, and practising mindfulness.
If you encounter a challenging question, flag it for review and move on to ensure you complete the entire subtest within the allocated time.
For more tips and advice, check out our popular articles here.
UCAT Decision Making Practice Questions
Practice questions and tests are essential for preparing effectively for the UCAT Decision Making subtest. They allow you to familiarise yourself with the types of questions you’ll encounter and develop strategies to answer them confidently and swiftly.
To access free UCAT practice tests and a question bank that adapts to your strengths and weaknesses, visit Medic Mind’s UCAT Practice Tests. This resource uses artificial intelligence to personalise your learning experience, helping you focus on areas that need improvement and maximise your UCAT preparation time effectively.
Final Words
Preparing for the UCAT Decision Making subtest requires dedication and strategic practice. By mastering question types, managing your time effectively, and utilising practice resources such as our UCAT Practice Tests, you can enhance your readiness and confidence for exam day.
To further boost your UCAT preparation, consider exploring Medic Mind UCAT tutoring and online courses. Start your journey to UCAT success today!
Boost your UCAT Score with our Expert Tutors!
Book a session with one of our expert UCAT tutors to boost your chances of scoring highly! Call us on +44 (0) 203 305 9593 for a free consultation.
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FAQs
Improving your speed involves both familiarity with question types and effective time management. Practise regularly with mock tests to hone your ability to interpret data swiftly. Additionally, focus on recognising key information in each question to streamline your decision-making process. Setting timed practice sessions can also help simulate exam conditions and improve your pacing.
Logical puzzles require careful analysis and deduction. Start by identifying the key components and relationships presented in the puzzle. Consider breaking down complex information into simpler parts to unravel the logic behind the puzzle. Utilising the on-screen notepad during the exam can help in visualising problem-solving steps and ensuring accuracy in your answers.
If you encounter a challenging question, it’s beneficial to flag it for review and move on to other questions. This strategy prevents wasting time and allows you to complete the easier questions first. Upon completing the rest of the subtest, revisit flagged questions with a fresh perspective. Sometimes, taking a brief mental break by focusing on another question can provide insights for solving the challenging one.
Reviewing your answers is crucial to catch any mistakes or oversights. Allocate a few minutes at the end of the subtest to revisit flagged questions and ensure that your answers align with the information provided. Double-checking your reasoning and calculations can potentially improve your overall score by correcting any errors made in haste during the initial attempt.
Critical thinking is fundamental to answering UCAT Decision Making questions accurately. It involves assessing the validity of arguments, evaluating evidence, and making logical connections based solely on the information provided. Practising critical thinking skills through exposure to diverse question types and scenarios can enhance your ability to approach questions methodically and arrive at well-reasoned conclusions.
The on-screen calculator is a valuable tool for performing calculations quickly and accurately. Familiarise yourself with its functions before the exam to minimise time spent navigating the calculator interface. Use it strategically for complex calculations or verifying numerical data presented in questions. However, avoid over-reliance on the calculator by practising mental maths skills, especially for simpler calculations, to maintain efficient time management during the test.
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