How to Prepare for the MCAT Biological Sciences Section

Aspiring doctors must take the MCAT before applying to medical school. Although challenging, success on the MCAT requires only basic understanding of scientific concepts. To do well on the biological sciences section, you must master material covered in introductory biology and organic chemistry classes. Begin studying at least six months in advance and focus primarily on areas in which you are weakest.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Familiarize yourself with the format of the biological sciences section. The section, which is last on the MCAT, consists of several brief passages followed by a related series of questions. There are also a number of standalone questions. You have 70 minutes to answer 52 questions.

2. Understand the level of knowledge necessary to succeed on the biological sciences section. Although some passages deal with advanced biological subject matter, you only need introductory-level knowledge of biology and organic chemistry to correctly answer the questions.

3. Study biology. Concentrate on basic molecular biology principles, cellular properties, genetics and evolution as they relate to vertebrates and microbes. Expand vertebrate studies to include the structure and interconnectedness of body systems and the physiological effects of external phenomena on organizing their form and function. More specifically, focus on viruses, enzymes, cell division and all body systems, including the nervous system, muscular system and lymphatic system.

4. Review organic chemistry material. Concepts covered on the MCAT include hydrolysis and dehydration, stereochemistry, amino acids, proteins, hydrocarbons, oxygen-containing compounds and laboratory techniques. You must also understand organic compound nomenclature, structure and classification, synthesis and retrosynthesis and reactions and reaction mechanisms.

5. Take a practice test under simulated testing conditions. Once you identify your problem areas, you can structure a studying system tailored to your specific needs. If you are unhappy with the score you receive on the practice MCAT, sign up for a prep course.

Resources

• Official MCAT website.

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[tommcat]

on 8/12/2009 Check out ExamKrackers Biology book. It has color and great mnemonic devices. Salty rules !! It has the right amount of review you need for the test as well.
I found it on Amazon. All the EK books are great.