The MCAT, or Medical College Admission Test, is a medical school admission requirement. The first section of the test measures knowledge of physical sciences, with an emphasis on physics and general chemistry. You need a command of core concepts covered in introductory college level physics, chemistry, algebra and trigonometry. With an understanding of the topics covered and knowledge of test format, successful premed students do well on the MCAT.
Instructions
1. Understand the format of the physical sciences section. You must read a several passages related to physics and chemistry topics and answer related multiple choice questions. There are also some standalone questions. Required knowledge does not exceed concepts covered in college level introductory chemistry and physics classes. You have 100 minutes to answer 77 questions.
2. Have the mathematical knowledge necessary to answer physical science questions. Among the relevant concepts are introductory and mid-level algebraic concepts, such as scientific notation, data graphs, logarithms and basic trigonometry, including sine and cosine. You must also have working knowledge of basic statistical correlations, probabilities and vector addition and subtraction. Mathematical concepts covered do not go beyond those typically taught in low level science courses.
3. Review relevant physics topics. Covered concepts include those related to electrodynamics, circuits, light, energy and magnetism. The physical science section emphasizes data interpretation, so you must know read and interpret scientific graphs and tables.
4. Study general chemistry. You must have a firm understanding of atomic structure, the periodic table, electrochemistry, acids and bases, chemical reactions and thermodynamics. Instead of relying on undergraduate chemistry texts to prepare, purchase MCAT study guides. Many topics covered in basic chemistry classes are not covered on the MCAT.
5. Take a practice MCAT. Before developing a study plan, complete at least one physical science section under timed conditions. After scoring the practice test, determine your strengths and weaknesses and study accordingly. If you're unhappy with the test results, enroll in an MCAT prep course.
Tags: concepts covered, physical science, college level, general chemistry, physical science section, physical sciences