Tips for learning Biochem quickly?

[VTBuc]

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So genetics, anatomy, clinical skills, etc. etc. have all been manageable as far as reading the textbook, outlining, and understanding. However, biochem is kicking my butt. Typically my study style is outlining the book, but this doesn't seem to work too well for me in biochem. I find myself copying sentences verbatum from the book and not really comprehending what's going on.

On top of that, the sheer volume of symbols, mechanisms, and formulas is overwhelming. To those who have gone through M1 successfully, what tips can you offer for comprehending Biochem without spending days at a time on it?

 

[OPPforlife]

I used to write my own questions for biochem. It seemed pretty effective. Basically when you are reading and highlighting, instead of taking notes or rewriting notes just write your own questions and try to answer them in your head. Also, this is a great way to review biochem, cuts review time in half IMO.

 

[SB100]

Draw out all the pathways over and over until they're imprinted in your head.

 

[justaregularmed]

Connecting the various pathways help you remember by association too.

 

[wiscorobby]

If you're able to do it, memorize structures. Pathways become a breeze.

 

[Vulcan]

Draw out all the pathways over and over until they're imprinted in your head.

THIS!

I had a stack of papers in my room which grew steadily toward the ceiling as the final approached. If you can draw out the pathways from memory (names, structures, and enzymes!) then you're golden.

 

[ThaliaNox]

Another essential key to mastering biochem is to actually do practice problems for the mathematically based concepts. I know most med students hate math, but it is silly to lose points on a test because you forgot to convert your units. Nine times out of ten my mistakes on mathematical problems are unit issues, so practice makes perfect. Also make sure you're practicing with only the resources your school allows on the test. If that means no calculator, or only a simple four-function calculator, don't use your TI-89 to do practice problems. Finally, actually look at your answers! If you're going for a pH and you get an answer of 17, then obviously you've made a mistake. Same concept with results that seem ridiculously large or ridiculously small.

 

[ArcGurren]

Draw your pathways over and over and over and over again. There's really no other solution.

For the more conceptual stuff I'd make flashcards.