Scaled Score
A raw score converted to a standardized scale to ensure fairness.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
Free knowledge base
MCAT® Exam — key terms, tricks & tips
Everything from the course in one searchable place: 239 entries. Use it to review before a practice test or look up a word you forgot.
239 results
Raw Score
The total number of questions answered correctly on an exam section.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
CPBS
Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems section.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
CARS
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills section.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
BBLS
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems section.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
PSBB
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior section.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
Total Score
The sum of the four individual scaled section scores.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
Percentile Rank
Indicates how a score compares to those of other test-takers.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
MCAT Exam Structure & Scoring
To remember the section order: 'C'hem 'C'an 'B'e 'P'retty 'S'cary. (CPBS, CARS, BBLS, PSBB)
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
MCAT Exam Structure & Scoring
The AAMC specifies that the MCAT is a standardized, multiple-choice examination. Key facts to know are the four section names, their order, and the scoring range of 472-528 for the total score.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
MCAT Exam Structure & Scoring
Not knowing the order of the sections, which can cause unnecessary anxiety on test day.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
MCAT Exam Structure & Scoring
Ignoring the optional breaks; these are critical for mental stamina and should be utilized.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
MCAT Exam Structure & Scoring
Believing there's a penalty for guessing, leading to leaving questions blank and missing potential points.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
Active Learning
Engaging with material through summarizing, teaching, or problem-solving.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
Spaced Repetition
Reviewing material at increasing intervals to improve long-term memory.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
AAMC Materials
Official MCAT resources from the Association of American Medical Colleges.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
Question Bank
A collection of practice questions for specific subjects or the entire exam.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
Full-Length Practice Test
A simulated MCAT exam taken under timed, realistic conditions.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
Content Review
The process of learning and understanding foundational scientific concepts.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
Test-Taking Strategy
Methods used to approach and answer questions efficiently during an exam.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
MCAT Study Strategies & Resources
For 'Active Learning': 'ACT' - Actively Create, Teach, and Test yourself!
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
MCAT Study Strategies & Resources
The MCAT exam tests your ability to apply scientific principles, not just recall facts. Focus on understanding the 'why' and 'how' behind concepts, especially when analyzing experimental data or clinical scenarios.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
MCAT Study Strategies & Resources
Passively reading textbooks without active engagement.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
MCAT Study Strategies & Resources
Neglecting AAMC official materials in favor of third-party resources.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
MCAT Study Strategies & Resources
Taking many practice tests without thorough review and analysis of results.
Getting Started: How the MCAT Works
Atomic Number (Z)
Number of protons, defines element identity.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Mass Number (A)
Sum of protons and neutrons in nucleus.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Isotopes
Atoms of same element with different neutron counts.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Electronegativity
Atom's ability to attract electrons in a bond.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Ionic Bond
Electron transfer between metal and nonmetal.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Covalent Bond
Electron sharing between two nonmetals.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
VSEPR Theory
Predicts molecular shape based on electron repulsion.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Electron Domain
Region of electron density (bond or lone pair).
Chemical & Physical Foundations
General Chemistry: Atomic Structure & Bonding
For VSEPR shapes, remember 'All Lone Pairs Are Invisible' when determining molecular geometry from electron geometry.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
General Chemistry: Atomic Structure & Bonding
The MCAT frequently tests the relationship between molecular structure (including geometry and polarity) and intermolecular forces, which in turn affect physical properties like boiling point and solubility. Always consider how bond type and molecular shape influence these properties.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
General Chemistry: Atomic Structure & Bonding
Confusing electron geometry with molecular geometry, especially when lone pairs are present.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
General Chemistry: Atomic Structure & Bonding
Incorrectly applying Hund's rule or the Aufbau principle when writing electron configurations.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
General Chemistry: Atomic Structure & Bonding
Forgetting that electronegativity differences determine bond polarity, not just bond type.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
General Chemistry: Atomic Structure & Bonding
Not accounting for all valence electrons when determining VSEPR electron domains.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Functional Group
Specific atom groups determining molecular reactivity.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Isomers
Molecules with same formula, different atom arrangements.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Chirality
Property of non-superimposable mirror image molecules.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Spectroscopy
Techniques using light interaction to determine structure.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Nucleophile
Electron-rich species, donates electrons to electrophiles.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Electrophile
Electron-deficient species, accepts electrons from nucleophiles.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Enantiomers
Stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Organic Chemistry: Structure, Reactions & Spectroscopy
For IR stretches: 'C=O is a 'car-bonyl' at 1700, like a car's speed limit. O-H is 'Oh, so broad' around 3300, like a wide highway.'
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Organic Chemistry: Structure, Reactions & Spectroscopy
The MCAT frequently tests the ability to identify functional groups and predict their reactivity in biological contexts. Pay close attention to oxidation/reduction states of carbon, especially in metabolic pathways. Keywords like 'chiral center,' 'enantiomer,' and 'diastereomer' indicate stereochemistry questions.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Organic Chemistry: Structure, Reactions & Spectroscopy
Confusing structural isomers with stereoisomers.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Organic Chemistry: Structure, Reactions & Spectroscopy
Incorrectly assigning R/S configuration to chiral centers.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Organic Chemistry: Structure, Reactions & Spectroscopy
Misinterpreting IR peaks or NMR splitting patterns.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Organic Chemistry: Structure, Reactions & Spectroscopy
Forgetting that strong vs. weak oxidizing agents yield different products.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Macromolecule
Large organic molecules essential for life, built from smaller subunits.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Monomer
A single molecular unit that can bind to other identical units.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Polymer
A large molecule composed of many repeated monomer subunits.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Catabolism
Metabolic processes that break down complex molecules, releasing energy.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Anabolism
Metabolic processes that build complex molecules, requiring energy.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
ATP
Adenosine triphosphate; the primary energy currency of the cell.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Denaturation
Loss of a protein's specific 3D structure, leading to loss of function.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Glycosidic Linkage
Covalent bond joining a carbohydrate molecule to another group.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Biochemistry: Macromolecules & Metabolism Basics
To remember the four macromolecules and their monomers: 'Can Little People Not?' Carbs (Monosaccharides), Lipids (Fatty acids/Glycerol), Proteins (Amino acids), Nucleic Acids (Nucleotides).
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Biochemistry: Macromolecules & Metabolism Basics
The MCAT frequently tests the relationship between macromolecule structure and function. Pay close attention to how changes in pH or temperature affect protein activity (e.g., denaturation) and the energy implications of breaking down or building macromolecules.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Biochemistry: Macromolecules & Metabolism Basics
Confusing the roles of DNA and RNA; DNA stores genetic info, RNA helps express it.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Biochemistry: Macromolecules & Metabolism Basics
Assuming all lipids are fats; lipids are a diverse group including steroids and phospholipids.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Biochemistry: Macromolecules & Metabolism Basics
Forgetting that enzymes are proteins and are sensitive to environmental conditions like temperature and pH.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Kinematics
Description of motion without considering its causes.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Pascal's Principle
Pressure in enclosed fluid transmitted undiminished.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Archimedes' Principle
Buoyant force equals weight of displaced fluid.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Doppler Effect
Apparent change in wave frequency due to relative motion.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Refraction
Bending of light as it passes between media.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Ohm's Law
Relationship between voltage, current, and resistance (V=IR).
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Electromagnetic Spectrum
Range of all types of EM radiation.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Physics: Mechanics, Fluids, Waves & Electromagnetism
Remember 'ROY G BIV' for the colors of the visible light spectrum (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet) from longest to shortest wavelength.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Physics: Mechanics, Fluids, Waves & Electromagnetism
The MCAT often tests the application of physics principles to biological systems. For example, understanding blood flow (fluid dynamics) or nerve impulse transmission (electromagnetism). Pay close attention to units and vector vs. scalar quantities.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Physics: Mechanics, Fluids, Waves & Electromagnetism
Confusing scalar quantities (like speed) with vector quantities (like velocity) and their respective calculations.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Physics: Mechanics, Fluids, Waves & Electromagnetism
Incorrectly applying series vs. parallel resistor formulas or mixing up current and voltage relationships.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Physics: Mechanics, Fluids, Waves & Electromagnetism
Forgetting that electromagnetic waves do not require a medium for propagation, unlike sound waves.
Chemical & Physical Foundations
Main Idea
The central argument or message of a passage.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Topic
The general subject matter of a passage.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Supporting Detail
Evidence, examples, or facts that back up the main idea.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Thesis Statement
A sentence explicitly stating the main idea, often in the introduction.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Implied Main Idea
A main idea that is not directly stated but must be inferred.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Author's Purpose
The reason an author writes a passage (e.g., to inform, persuade).
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Scope
The breadth or narrowness of the passage's focus.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
CARS: Identifying Main Ideas
Think 'M.I.N.E.' for Main Idea: **M**essage, **I**nference (if implied), **N**ot details, **E**verything covered.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
CARS: Identifying Main Ideas
On the MCAT CARS section, main idea questions often use keywords like 'main point,' 'primary purpose,' 'author's central argument,' or 'best summarizes.' Always choose the option that is both comprehensive and accurately reflects the author's specific perspective, not just the general topic.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
CARS: Identifying Main Ideas
Confusing a supporting detail or example for the main idea.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
CARS: Identifying Main Ideas
Selecting an option that is too broad or too narrow for the passage's scope.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
CARS: Identifying Main Ideas
Choosing an answer that reflects your own opinion rather than the author's.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Detail Question
Asks for information explicitly stated in the passage.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Inference Question
Asks for information implied but not directly stated.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Explicit Information
Information directly and clearly stated in the text.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Implicit Information
Information that is suggested or understood without being stated.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Keywords
Important words in questions or passages used for scanning.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Deduction
Drawing a specific conclusion from general principles or evidence.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Synthesize
Combining different pieces of information to form a new understanding.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Inference & Detail Questions: Reading Between the Lines
D-E-T-A-I-L: Directly Explicit, Textually Accurate, Inferred Last. (For inference questions, you infer last, after considering all details.)
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Inference & Detail Questions: Reading Between the Lines
For 'Reasoning Within the Text' questions, the AAMC expects you to identify information that is either explicitly stated or directly inferable from the passage. Keywords like 'according to the author' or 'it can be inferred' are critical indicators of the question type.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Inference & Detail Questions: Reading Between the Lines
Bringing in outside knowledge for inference questions that is not supported by the passage.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Inference & Detail Questions: Reading Between the Lines
Confusing similar-sounding answer choices for detail questions; always verify exact wording.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Inference & Detail Questions: Reading Between the Lines
Making assumptions that are too far-fetched or not directly supported by textual evidence.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Application
Using passage information to understand new, unstated situations.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Evaluation
Assessing the strength, weakness, or validity of an argument or solution.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Assumption
An unstated premise that must be true for an argument's conclusion to follow.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Strengthen
To provide additional support or evidence for an argument or conclusion.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Weaken
To undermine an argument or conclusion, often by challenging assumptions.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Confounding Variable
An unmeasured factor influencing both the independent and dependent variables.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Logical Fallacy
An error in reasoning that renders an argument invalid or unsound.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Reasoning Beyond the Text: Application & Evaluation
AEIOU: Apply, Evaluate, Identify Assumptions, Overcome Weaknesses, Understand Implications. Remember these five verbs for 'Reasoning Beyond the Text' questions!
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Reasoning Beyond the Text: Application & Evaluation
The AAMC expects you to 'Reason beyond the text to apply or extrapolate information to new situations, or to evaluate arguments and their implications.' Look for keywords like 'apply,' 'evaluate,' 'strengthen,' 'weaken,' 'assume,' or 'imply' in the question stem.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Reasoning Beyond the Text: Application & Evaluation
Bringing in outside knowledge not supported by the passage.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Reasoning Beyond the Text: Application & Evaluation
Confusing correlation with causation when evaluating arguments.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Reasoning Beyond the Text: Application & Evaluation
Failing to identify critical unstated assumptions.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Reasoning Beyond the Text: Application & Evaluation
Choosing an answer that is true but doesn't directly address the question's 'strengthen' or 'weaken' requirement.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Active Reading
Engaging with text to identify main ideas, arguments, and author's purpose.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Author's Tone
The author's attitude toward the subject matter, e.g., critical, objective.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Inference
A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning, not explicitly stated.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Elimination Strategy
Process of removing incorrect answer choices to increase odds of selecting the right one.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Time Allocation
Distributing available time strategically across different sections or questions.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Passage Mapping
Mentally or physically outlining the structure and key points of a passage.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
CARS Practice: Strategies & Timed Passages
PACE Yourself: **P**assage first, **A**nalyze questions, **C**onsider all choices, **E**liminate wrong ones.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
CARS Practice: Strategies & Timed Passages
The AAMC expects you to critically analyze information from diverse humanities and social sciences texts. Keywords to spot in questions include 'author's main point,' 'implies,' 'suggests,' 'strengthens,' and 'weakens.' Remember that all correct answers must be directly supported by the passage, even if inferred.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
CARS Practice: Strategies & Timed Passages
Spending too much time on a single difficult question, leading to unfinished passages.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
CARS Practice: Strategies & Timed Passages
Bringing in outside knowledge or personal opinions instead of relying solely on the passage content.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
CARS Practice: Strategies & Timed Passages
Passively reading the passage without actively identifying main ideas, arguments, or author's tone.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills
Central Dogma
Flow of genetic info: DNA to RNA to protein.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
DNA Replication
Process of making an exact copy of DNA.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Transcription
Synthesis of RNA from a DNA template.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Translation
Synthesis of protein from an mRNA template.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Codon
Three-nucleotide sequence on mRNA specifying an amino acid.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Anticodon
Three-nucleotide sequence on tRNA complementary to a codon.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
RNA Polymerase
Enzyme that synthesizes RNA during transcription.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Ribosome
Cellular organelle where protein synthesis occurs.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Molecular Biology: Proteins, Nucleic Acids & Gene Expression
Think 'TRanscribe' for 'TRansfer' (DNA to RNA, like transferring notes). Think 'TRanslate' for 'TRansform' (RNA to Protein, like transforming words into meaning).
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Molecular Biology: Proteins, Nucleic Acids & Gene Expression
The MCAT expects you to know the specific enzymes involved in DNA replication and their functions (e.g., helicase unwinds, DNA polymerase synthesizes, ligase joins). Also, distinguish between the types of RNA and their roles in gene expression.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Molecular Biology: Proteins, Nucleic Acids & Gene Expression
Confusing the roles of DNA polymerase and RNA polymerase: DNA polymerase for DNA synthesis, RNA polymerase for RNA synthesis.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Molecular Biology: Proteins, Nucleic Acids & Gene Expression
Mixing up codons and anticodons: Codons are on mRNA, anticodons are on tRNA.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Molecular Biology: Proteins, Nucleic Acids & Gene Expression
Forgetting the directionality of synthesis: Both DNA and RNA synthesis occur in the 5' to 3' direction.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Prokaryotic cell
Cell lacking a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Eukaryotic cell
Cell with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Plasma membrane
Selectively permeable barrier enclosing the cell.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Mitochondria
Organelle responsible for ATP production via cellular respiration.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Endoplasmic Reticulum
Network of membranes for protein and lipid synthesis.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Golgi apparatus
Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Passive transport
Movement across membrane without energy, down gradient.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Active transport
Movement across membrane requiring energy, against gradient.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Cell Biology: Structure, Function & Transport
Remember 'PMAT' for the main phases of mitosis, but for cell organelles, think of a 'Cellular City': The Nucleus is City Hall (controls everything), Mitochondria are Power Plants (energy), ER is the Factory (makes stuff), Golgi is the Post Office (packages and ships), and the Plasma Membrane is the City Wall (controls entry/exit).
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Cell Biology: Structure, Function & Transport
The MCAT frequently tests the functions of specific organelles and the mechanisms of membrane transport. Pay close attention to the distinction between passive and active transport, and be able to identify which molecules use which pathways. Keywords like 'concentration gradient', 'ATP hydrolysis', and 'selectively permeable' are common.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Cell Biology: Structure, Function & Transport
Confusing the function of smooth ER (lipid synthesis, detoxification) with rough ER (protein synthesis via ribosomes).
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Cell Biology: Structure, Function & Transport
Incorrectly applying the principles of osmosis; remember water moves to equalize solute concentration.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Cell Biology: Structure, Function & Transport
Forgetting that ribosomes are found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, unlike other membrane-bound organelles.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Allele
Alternative forms of a gene.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Genotype
The genetic makeup of an organism.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Phenotype
The observable characteristics of an organism.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Homozygous
Having two identical alleles for a gene.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Heterozygous
Having two different alleles for a gene.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Dominant
An allele that is expressed even with one copy.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Recessive
An allele expressed only with two copies.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Punnett Square
Diagram to predict offspring genotypes/phenotypes.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Mendelian & Non-Mendelian Inheritance
DOMinant traits DO NOT skip generations. reCESSive traits CAN skip generations (because carriers exist).
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Mendelian & Non-Mendelian Inheritance
For the MCAT, memorize the defining characteristics of autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, X-linked dominant, and X-linked recessive inheritance patterns to quickly interpret pedigree charts.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Mendelian & Non-Mendelian Inheritance
Confusing incomplete dominance (blending) with codominance (both expressed).
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Mendelian & Non-Mendelian Inheritance
Incorrectly assigning sex-linked traits to autosomal chromosomes, especially for X-linked recessive disorders in males.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Mendelian & Non-Mendelian Inheritance
Misinterpreting pedigree symbols or failing to consider all possible inheritance patterns when analyzing a family tree.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Neuron
Basic unit of the nervous system, transmits signals.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Neurotransmitter
Chemical messenger at synapses, transmits signals.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Hormone
Chemical messenger secreted into blood, regulates distant targets.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Negative Feedback
Mechanism where a product inhibits its own production.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Innate Immunity
Non-specific, immediate defense against pathogens.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Adaptive Immunity
Specific, memory-based defense, involves lymphocytes.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Antibody
Protein produced by B cells to neutralize pathogens.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Homeostasis
Maintenance of stable internal physiological conditions.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Physiology I: Nervous, Endocrine & Immune Systems
N-E-I: Nervous is 'Now!', Endocrine is 'Eventually!', Immune is 'Invade!' – helps recall their speed and purpose.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Physiology I: Nervous, Endocrine & Immune Systems
The MCAT expects you to differentiate between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems' effects on various organs (e.g., heart rate, digestion, pupil size). Also, know the major endocrine glands and their primary hormones, as well as the distinction between humoral and cell-mediated immunity.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Physiology I: Nervous, Endocrine & Immune Systems
Confusing the roles of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Physiology I: Nervous, Endocrine & Immune Systems
Mixing up which hormones are produced by which glands.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Physiology I: Nervous, Endocrine & Immune Systems
Not understanding the difference between innate and adaptive immune responses.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Alveoli
Tiny air sacs in lungs where gas exchange occurs.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Peristalsis
Wave-like muscle contractions moving food through digestive tract.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Nephron
Functional unit of the kidney, filters blood and forms urine.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Gametes
Reproductive cells (sperm and egg).
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Hematopoiesis
Process of blood cell formation, mainly in bone marrow.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Physiology II: Organ Systems
CRDEMS R: 'Circus Really Does Excite My Sister' (Circulatory, Respiratory, Digestive, Excretory, Musculoskeletal, Reproductive).
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Physiology II: Organ Systems
The MCAT expects you to know the primary function of each major organ within these systems and how they contribute to overall body function and homeostasis. Pay particular attention to the interactions between systems, such as how the circulatory system delivers oxygen from the respiratory system.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Physiology II: Organ Systems
Confusing the roles of the small and large intestines (small for absorption, large for water reabsorption and waste compaction).
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Physiology II: Organ Systems
Mixing up arteries and veins (arteries carry blood away from heart, veins carry blood towards heart, generally).
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Physiology II: Organ Systems
Forgetting that the skin and lungs also have minor excretory roles in addition to the kidneys.
Biological & Biochemical Foundations
Sensation
Receiving stimulus energies via sensory receptors.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Perception
Organizing and interpreting sensory information.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Classical Conditioning
Learning via association of involuntary responses.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Operant Conditioning
Learning via consequences of voluntary behaviors.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Reinforcement
Consequence that strengthens a behavior.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Punishment
Consequence that weakens a behavior.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Emotion
Complex state with physiological, behavioral, cognitive components.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Cognitive Appraisal
Interpretation of a situation, influencing emotional response.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Sensation, Perception, Learning & Emotion
For the emotion theories, remember 'JCSL': James-Lange (Just Cried, So Lame), Cannon-Bard (Concurrent, Both at once), Schachter-Singer (Silly, Cognitive Label), Lazarus (Look, Appraisal First).
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Sensation, Perception, Learning & Emotion
The AAMC expects you to distinguish between different types of learning (classical, operant, observational) and apply the principles of reinforcement and punishment to real-world scenarios. Look for keywords like 'involuntary response' (classical) vs. 'voluntary behavior' (operant).
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Sensation, Perception, Learning & Emotion
Confusing positive reinforcement with negative reinforcement: Positive adds something desirable, negative removes something undesirable, both increase behavior.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Sensation, Perception, Learning & Emotion
Mixing up classical and operant conditioning: Classical involves involuntary responses to stimuli, operant involves voluntary actions and their consequences.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Sensation, Perception, Learning & Emotion
Assuming all emotions are felt the same way: Different theories propose different sequences for physiological and cognitive components.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Cognition
Mental processes for acquiring knowledge and understanding.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Heuristic
Mental shortcut for quick, but not always optimal, decisions.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Functional Fixedness
Inability to see new uses for an object beyond its original purpose.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Encoding
Initial learning of information into memory.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Explicit Memory
Conscious recall of facts and events.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Implicit Memory
Unconscious, non-declarative memory like skills.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Personality
Characteristic patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
DSM-5
Diagnostic manual for classifying psychological disorders.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Cognition, Memory, Personality & Psychological Disorders
To remember the Big Five personality traits: **OCEAN** - Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, Neuroticism.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Cognition, Memory, Personality & Psychological Disorders
The MCAT expects you to distinguish between different types of memory (e.g., explicit vs. implicit, semantic vs. episodic) and to identify how cognitive biases (e.g., confirmation bias, availability heuristic) can affect decision-making.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Cognition, Memory, Personality & Psychological Disorders
Confusing short-term memory with working memory; while related, working memory actively manipulates information.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Cognition, Memory, Personality & Psychological Disorders
Attributing all psychological disorders to biological factors; many have complex biopsychosocial etiologies.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Cognition, Memory, Personality & Psychological Disorders
Mixing up proactive and retroactive interference; proactive is old info interfering with new, retroactive is new info interfering with old.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Conformity
Adjusting behavior/beliefs to group norms.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Obedience
Complying with direct orders from authority.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Group Polarization
Group decisions become more extreme.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Groupthink
Desire for harmony leads to irrational decisions.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Social Facilitation
Improved performance on simple tasks with others.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Social Loafing
Reduced individual effort in a group.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Deindividuation
Loss of self-awareness in a large group.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Reference Group
Group used for self-evaluation.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Group Dynamics & Social Influence
To remember the difference between 'Group Polarization' and 'Groupthink': 'Polarization' makes opinions 'P'ush to the 'P'oles (more extreme), while 'Groupthink' means everyone 'Thinks' the same to keep 'Harmony'.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Group Dynamics & Social Influence
The exam often tests the distinction between conformity (acting to fit in) and obedience (acting due to direct command from authority). Pay close attention to the source of influence in scenario questions.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Group Dynamics & Social Influence
Confusing group polarization with groupthink: polarization is about extreme decisions, groupthink is about flawed decision-making due to conformity pressure.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Group Dynamics & Social Influence
Misidentifying social facilitation vs. social loafing: facilitation improves simple tasks, loafing reduces effort in groups.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Group Dynamics & Social Influence
Attributing all group behavior to a single cause: multiple social influence factors often interact.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Culture
Shared beliefs, values, practices of a group.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Material Culture
Physical objects defining a culture.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Nonmaterial Culture
Abstract ideas, beliefs, values of a culture.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Demographics
Statistical data about a population.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Social Institutions
Established patterns of social behavior.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Quantitative Methods
Research using numerical data and statistics.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Qualitative Methods
Research exploring in-depth meanings and experiences.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Cultural Relativism
Understanding culture from its own context.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Culture, Demographics & Research Methods
To remember the difference between Material and Nonmaterial culture: Think 'M' for Material = 'Made' things you can touch. 'N' for Nonmaterial = 'Not' physical, like ideas.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Culture, Demographics & Research Methods
The MCAT expects you to distinguish between material and nonmaterial culture, and to apply demographic concepts (e.g., age, race, SES) to understand social stratification and health disparities. Look for keywords like 'shared values' for nonmaterial culture or 'artifacts' for material culture.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Culture, Demographics & Research Methods
Confusing cultural relativism with moral relativism; cultural relativism is about understanding, not necessarily endorsing.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Culture, Demographics & Research Methods
Mixing up quantitative and qualitative research methods; remember 'quantity' for numbers, 'quality' for deep understanding.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations
Culture, Demographics & Research Methods
Forgetting that social institutions are dynamic and can change over time, not static entities.
Psychological, Social & Biological Foundations