Section review
The concepts presented in this section of the MCAT test are based on first year, undergraduate, introductory courses in biology and organic chemistry. The section often presents advanced topics which appear to go beyond the undergraduate level; the questions themselves, however, are always oriented to the undergraduate student. This strategy is used in the MCAT test merely as a way of making it appear more difficult than it is
While a fundamental knowledge of biology, organic chemistry and basic science concepts is necessary, it is not sufficient. The student also needs skills in analytical reasoning and data interpretation in order to succeed. There are cases in which applying common sense and logic to the information given in the texts or questions, can lead to the correct answer.It is highly recommended to take a FREE MCAT practice test in order to understand these ideas, or simply view our Sample MCAT questions.
Types of passages
There are three main types of passages common to the MCAT test biological sciences section:
1. Informative - This type of passage, taken from academic or professional literature such as text books or journals, presents newly discovered or known phenomena related to biology and organic chemistry.
2. Research and experimental - This passage type summarizes a research project, including its objectives, methods, results and conclusions.
3. Persuasive argument - This type of passage presents a single or two opposing viewpoints of a given subject. Usually, if two viewpoints are given, one is valid and the other is not.
Math requisites
Since the use of a calculator is forbidden during the MCAT test, the level of mathematics is relatively simple. For the biological sciences section, basic arithmetic skills (proportion, ratio, percentage, etc.) are needed. In addition, a periodic table of the elements, including atomic numbers and atomic weights, is provided.
More about MCAT Biology:
MCAT sample questions
MCAT registration steps
MCAT scores