scripod.com

MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)

MedSchoolCoach

MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)

MedSchoolCoach

Join us as we detail MCAT exam topics. Each podcast covers several MCAT sections with lessons based on review material put out by the AAMC, such as practice tests and question banks. Sam also interviews MCAT tutors and experts who share tips on how premed students can raise their score to get into medical school.

Feb 17

The Doppler Effect

The Doppler Effect is a crucial concept for the MCAT, particularly in the Chemistry & Physics section. We'll explore how the Doppler effect occurs when a wave source moves relative to an observer, affecting the observed frequency and wavelength. Using prac...

The Doppler Effect

Feb 12

Molecular Structure and Absorption Spectra

In this episode, we cover molecular structure and the key spectroscopy techniques you need to know for the MCAT. We'll explore the intricacies of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy, breaking down the chemical shifts and spin-splitting essentials for ...

Molecular Structure and Absorption Spectra

Feb 10

Personality

In this episode, we focus on personality and the theories relevant for the MCAT. We’ll cover key perspectives, such as psychoanalytic theory, humanistic theory, and trait theory, along with the influence of social cognitive and biological factors on pers...

Personality

Feb 05

Population Genetics

In this episode, we discuss population genetics and see how genetically related individuals share the same alleles, delving into the mechanisms of gene flow and genetic drift. We'll also unravel the complexities of hybrid vigor, reproductive isolation, and...

Population Genetics

Feb 03

Social Norms & Deviance

Social norms and deviance as covered in the MCAT is a fascinating topic, and in this episode, we'll break down the intersection of social norms—folkways, mores, taboos, and laws—how they play a crucial role in shaping societal values, and what happens when...

Social Norms & Deviance

Jan 29

Fat and Protein Metabolism

In this episode, we’ll nail down all that is needed for the MCATB in relation to fat and protein metabolism. Two critical processes for gaining energy and maintaining cellular functions in the body. We'll learn about the intricate details of beta-oxidation...

Fat and Protein Metabolism

Jan 27

Work and Energy

In this episode, we cover the topic of work and energy. We’ll start off by talking about work, which includes the mathematical and conceptual definitions and the sign convention of work. We’ll also talk a little bit about mechanical advantage and also path...

Work and Energy

Jan 22

The Endocrine System

In this episode, we’ll cover crucial aspects such as hormones, their origins and mechanisms of action, and the various structures within the endocrine system. We'll also decode complex cell-to-cell communication and distinguish between different hormone ty...

The Endocrine System

Jan 20

Sleep and Circadian Rhythms

This episode is packed with essential high-yield information for your MCAT prep, covering the biological, physiological, and psychological aspects of sleep. We’ll explore various sleep theories, like the Memory Consolidation and Brain Plasicticity Theories...

Sleep and Circadian Rhythms

Jan 15

The Excretory System

In this episode, we're covering the anatomy and physiology of key organs such as the kidneys, liver, skin, lungs, and large intestine, and discuss the crucial role they play in eliminating waste products from our bodies. From the structure of the hepatic ...

The Excretory System

Jan 13

Common Hormone Axes

In this episode, we'll explore three crucial hormone axes: the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone (RAAS) system. We'll decode the complex interplays among the hypo...

Common Hormone Axes

Jan 08

Adenosine Triphosphate or ATP

In this episode, we’ll talk about ATP or adenosine triphosphate. We will begin with a detailed examination of ATP's structure and composition as a nucleotide, followed by an explanation of the metabolic pathways involved in its production—both aerobic and...

Adenosine Triphosphate or ATP

Jan 06

Biological Membranes

This MCAT Basics podcast covers biological membranes. First, the podcast introduces a few topics regarding membranes: what they are, how they are formed, their presence in the cell, and cell-to-cell junctions. Second, it addresses transport through the mem...

Biological Membranes

Jan 01

Electrochemistry

In this episode of MCAT Basics, we’ll cover Electrochemistry. We start with the role of salt bridges in electrochemical cells and cover the intricacies of cell notation. We’ll also discuss how ions maintain charge balance, the importance of reduction and o...

Electrochemistry

2025/12/30

The Digestive System

In this episode, we'll break down the intricate processes of nutrient digestion and absorption, from the mechanical and chemical digestion in the stomach to the vital role of the small and large intestines. We'll also discuss the regulatory mechanisms invo...

The Digestive System

2025/12/26

Physiology and Perception of the Eye

This podcast focuses on the eye. It begins with a brief overview of the eye's anatomy and physiology. The discussion then shifts to rods, cones, and the phototransduction pathway. The final section addresses perception. Key topics include visual field pro...

Physiology and Perception of the Eye

2025/12/23

Sound and Hearing

In this episode, we focus on the physiology of sound and hearing. We begin by exploring sound-related concepts, including sound waves, pitch, ultrasound, and the decibel system. Next, we delve into the anatomy and physiology of the ear, providing a clear ...

Sound and Hearing

2025/12/18

Redox Reactions: Reduction and Oxidation

Redox reactions or reduction and oxidation are reactions in which electrons are simultaneously transferred from one chemical species to another. This episode begins with exploring this concept, including an in-depth look at oxidizing and reducing agents an...

Redox Reactions: Reduction and Oxidation

2025/12/16

Intelligence

In this episode, we explore the topic of intelligence, which is primarily featured in the psychology and sociology section of the MCAT. We cover several key theories, including entity vs. incremental theory, general intelligence theory, two-factor theory,...

Intelligence

2025/11/28

Circuit Variables & Elements

This episode of MCAT Basics covers the world of circuits. We will explore electrical circuits and their fundamental principles. We’ll start with dissecting the essential parameters that form the backbone of circuits: voltage, current, resistance, and powe...

Circuit Variables & Elements