The MCAT Chemistry Book - Aryangat A. 2012

Introduction

The science portion of the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) consists of questions that test the basic concepts in general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and biology. The concepts are tested with respect to application, problem solving, and analytical thinking. These skills, which are measured by the test, are considered essential in the study of medicine. Most of the questions asked are based on passages. There will be independent questions as well. On the MCAT, the general chemistry questions appear as a part of the physical sciences section, and the organic chemistry questions as a part of the biological sciences section.

The MCAT Chemistry Book provides all the key concepts in general chemistry and organic chemistry that are required for the MCAT. The topic reviews in this book have been written with respect to their relevance to the MCAT.

The MCAT tests your ability to understand new concepts based on undergraduate science courses. Sometimes the passages contain topics and data that you have not seen before. Nevertheless, you do not need advanced courses in chemistry to be successful in the MCAT. All you need is to understand the basic concepts in chemistry. You should be familiar with the common equations and constants that are used in the undergraduate level of studies. For example, simple formulas such as the density-mass equation, or the gas equations may not be given to you in the passages or independent questions. Such simple equations should be memorized. More importantly, you should know how to use the equations in both numerical and conceptual situations. Advanced equations will be provided to you in the passages, if necessary. A periodic table will be provided for both physical and biological science sections of the test.

When studying this book, you should not focus just on facts. You should grasp the reasoning behind the facts and think conceptually about the various ideas in chemistry. The following guidelines will help you maximize your efficiency in reviewing this book.

A Few Guidelines for the Efficient Study of this Book

1) Read the review sections actively.

2) Take side notes as you review the material.

3) Give special attention to the topics that you have forgotten from your undergraduate courses.

4) Plan ahead and give yourself sufficient time for reviewing and studying.

5) Avoid cramming.

6) Create a schedule of study that fits into your daily agenda.

7) Study the examples that are provided, thoroughly and analytically, to understand the concepts discussed.

8) After reviewing each chapter, answer practice questions.

9) After answering the questions, refer to the answers and explanations for the practice questions provided at the end of the book.

Good Luck!