Doing Right: A Practical Guide to Ethics

Recommended for: Preparing for the MMI

This book is a case-based approach to ethical dilemmas that occur in medicine. It has been touted by many students as being extremely helpful with providing a framework and strategy for interview questions that deal with ethics.

Bemo's Guide to the MMI

Recommended for: Approach to the Multi-Mini Interview

The guide includes great tips that some might miss, sample MMI questions and answers, two full length Mock MMIs and access to a sample mock MMI simulator. There is also an excellent section on “stress management” – a component not talked about often enough. The book teaches you an approach that can apply to any type of MMI question.

PA School Interview Guide: Tips, Tricks & Techniques to Impress your Interviewers

Recommended for: Preparing for PA Panel Interview & Multi-Mini interview

The Author is a Pre-PA Admissions and Interview Coach in the United States, and she has some great strategies and tips for how to answer traditional PA school questions, behavioural questions, ethical questions, and MMI questions. She covers what to do before and after the interview takes place, a Master Question List (over 300!) and a Mock Interview Guide.

BeMo's Ultimate Guide to CASPer Test Prep

Recommended for: Preparing for CASPer test (Univesity of Manitoba's PA program) and Kira Talent (typewritten questions)

This is one of the most comprehensive guides to the CASPer test, a situational judgement test that has candidates respond to hypothetical scenarios in a 5-minute type-written response. This book includes a framework for how to answer questions effectively, and provides examples of excellent vs. poor answers. In addition it covers the format of the test, types of CASPer scenarios and questions, timing and preparation for the test. This thorough breakdown will help you increase your confidence and effectiveness after reading it, in a clear and concise manner! It also comes with a free practice CASPer test.

The Elements of Style: Grammar Guide

Recommended for: Writing your PA Supplemental Application or Written Statement of Intent

This book is a concise guide on grammar that teaches readers how to write effectively and clearly. This includes how to start a written piece, punctuation, avoiding misused words, style, steps for revision, and common grammatical mistakes to avoid. Its a great book to help you improve your writing skills.

Social Determinants of Health: Canadian Perspectives

Recommended for: Background reading for PA Supplemental Applications and PA School Interviews, or if you're unfamiliar with Canadian health care

This is a book that provides key issues and themes on Social Determinants of Health and its impact on Health Care Systems and Communities across Canada. It dives into socioeconomic factors that result in inequality in health. It is informative, concise and thought provoking book that will help you build background knowledge on issues that are faced by patients in the Canadian health care system.

Recommended Books for Pre-PA Students