MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)

Learning and memory are foundational concepts that play a critical role in acing the MCAT, especially in the Psych/Soc section. In this episode, host Sam Smith discusses the key concepts of learning and memory, covering the brain structures involved in memory formation, like the hippocampus and amygdala, as well as the different types of memory—explicit, implicit, and working memory. Sam also explores types of learning, including latent learning, observational learning, and the essential principles of classical and operant conditioning, and more. Visit medschoolcoach.com for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (01:03) How brain structures support learning and memory (02:39) The role of memory in learning processes (03:20) How the information processing model explains memory (16:28) Types of learning: latent, observational, and conditioning (17:48) How observational learning works in social contexts (18:23) Overview of classical and operant conditioning (34:44) MCAT Advice of the Day

Understanding study design and research variables is crucial for mastering the MCAT and in medical research. In this episode, host Sam Smith discusses the essentials of study design and research methods, from understanding independent and dependent variables to navigating the complexities of correlation, causation, and confounding variables. You’ll learn about the different types of studies, including experimental, observational, case-control, and cohort designs, and how they apply to MCAT questions. Plus, we’ll explore odds ratios, study validity, and the importance of specificity and sensitivity in diagnostic tests. This episode also covers common study limitations and biases, helping you sharpen your critical thinking skills for exam day. Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (01:22) Types of variables seen in studies (03:10) Correlation and Pearson correlation coefficient (05:38) Causation vs. correlation (07:16) Confounding variables: Examples and impact (08:55) Odds ratio and study applications (11:00) Validities in experiments (16:20) Specificity vs. sensitivity in diagnostic tests (19:13) Types of studies: Experimental and observational (31:32) Single blind vs. double blind studies (32:58) Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (35:57) Research limitations and study bias (45:39) MCAT Advice of the Day  

In this episode, Sam Smith will discuss and help you understand the essential organic chemistry mechanisms and reactions you may encounter when taking the MCAT. From nucleophilic substitution reactions like SN1 and SN2 to aldol condensation and oxidation and reduction of alcohols, Sam will cover the high-yield topics that are crucial for your test prep. He will also touch on key IR and NMR values that could appear on your exam.  Visit medschoolcoach.com for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the conversation:  (00:00) Intro (01:42) SN1 and SN2 nucleophilic substitution reactions, mechanisms, and key concepts (03:18) Carbonyl substitution and addition reactions (06:12) Introduction to aldol condensation reactions (07:17) Overview of oxidation and reduction reactions (10:09) Explanation of Fischer esterification and saponification (12:51) Summary of elimination reactions (E1 and E2) and their distinguishing features. (13:38) What numbers to know for IR and NMR

Mastering the concept of sociological groups can unlock a deeper understanding of how we interact and influence each other. On top of that, social interactions and group dynamics form the backbone of the Psych/Soc section of the MCAT, so mastering this topic is key to a good score.  In this episode, host Sam Smith breaks down the essential topic of sociological groups. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the different types of groups, the dynamics within organizations, bureaucracy, and social networks, and key concepts like groupthink, group polarization, and social loafing. We also explore how these concepts apply to real-world examples, from business partnerships to historical events like the Salem witch trials.  Visit medschoolcoach.com for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the conversation: 00:00 Intro 02:09 Types of social groups and social networks 08:06 Organizations and bureaucracy 10:17 Normative organizations 16:16 Group interactions and dynamics 20:08 Difference between group think and group polarization 27:57 Deindividuation, aka the ‘mob mentality’ 31:57 Cultural groups and assimilation 34:22 MCAT Advice of the Day