Help For MCAT Takers

[Md 2b In TN]

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I am having trouble figuring out some things for the MCAT. I thought some of you might be as well.

I can't remember how Huckle's Rule works. I know it is a system based off 4n+2 for Pi electrons. When something is aromatic what does n equal. N is a nonnegative integer, so am I looking for 4n+2 to equal something or be even to = aromaticity. I've looked through all my books and I just can't remember how it works.

 

[MDmiracle]

First, I teach for Kaplan. n is any positive integer doesn't matter. if the number of pi electrons matches any of the numbers generated by the formula, assuming all other criteria are met, then it is aromatic.

For example, 4n+2= 2,6,10,14,18,22...
Benzene is a ring, with conjugated double bonds, and it has 6 pi electrons it is therefore Aromatic.

 

[Md 2b In TN]

Ahhhhh!.........now I remember. Thanks.

 

[Md 2b In TN]

Anyone else sitting for the August MCAT feeling burned out on studying? I've been studying my ass off, and at this point don't feel like there is anything else I can do. Any of you having these same feelings, and what are you doing about them? With less that two weeks left I feel I should be studying as hard as ever.

 

[zinjanthropus]

well, i would look at in two ways

1. it seems that there is some material that you still have a weak foundation for (e.g. aromatic structures). Therefore, spend the time reviewing the concepts of the topics you don't understand and the details of the concepts you kinda understand

2. if you feel that you have learned all the actual material you can learn then you can always work on the test itself. You can never do too many practice passages.

 

[OrthoFixation]

Originally posted by Md 2b In TN
Anyone else sitting for the August MCAT feeling burned out on studying?

Yea, I'm burned...just call me crispy. I will endure, overcome, and likely have a several beers next Saturday. I might even wait until after the test.

 

[size_tens]

In my opinion detailed studying for the MCAT is highly overrated. You need to understand scientific concepts but don't sweat the details too much. I definitely over-studied and wasted my time memorizing things like the functions of a bunch of enzymes. I'm not saying that there won't be a few questions based on straight memorization of obscure facts, but the vast majority of the test is based on reasoning ability coupled with knowledge of basic science.

 

[vmiskin]

agreed. the key really is understanding an overarching relationship between concepts. rote memorization may have helped on the mcat many years ago, but the best way to do well is be familiar with the type of reason demanded by the questions. if your mind is already in that mode, you've got a good chance of teasing out the answer based on how the questions are worded - developing an instinct - as well as being able to quickly deconstruct a question.