Firstly, why should you listen to me?

Hi, in 2023, I improved from 60 → 80 on the GAMSAT. I’ve helped a bunch of my friends score 75+ and secure CSP spots since. This is a blog I wish I had when I was first preparing.

Overview

Let’s reason from first principles: why does section 3 exist? I argue that it’s an excellent gauge of how quickly you interpret, analyse, and critically think about scientific texts. In medical schools, the content is endless, so you need to select students who can churn through it and question what they learn. That is what section 3 is about - not necessarily about how much you know when you walk in, but rather how quickly you scientifically reason and problem-solve during the exam.

That’s why this section rewards rate of learning, adaptability, and scientific reasoning over rote memory. Ironically, having a science background can be a double-edged sword - many med sci grads are used to regurgitating facts instead of thinking critically.

So: build just enough foundational science, and then spend most of your time training to reason.

What is actually being assessed

Reasoning is an umbrella term for a host of specific sub-skills that can be nurtured with deliberate practice. So, what are they? And how do you cultivate them? For your convenience, I’ve translated vague descriptions by Acer into tangible aptitudes and included examples of how they’re assessed in section 3. I’m assuming everyone already does Acer practice questions, so instead I’ve dived into what else you can do to improve.

“Ability to identify knowledge in new contexts”

Here, Acer is asking you to apply foundational concepts in sciences to a different or unfamiliar situation. Notice how Acer hints that you still need some content? For instance, you can apply Bernoulli’s principles (fluid dynamics) to explain why blood speeds in a narrowed artery.

Here’s a list of content I believe is worth understanding from first principles:

• Cell structure & function → whilst you wouldn’t directly be asked about what the mitochondria does, a line of reasoning may assume you already know it.
• Enzyme kinetics → can easily be paired with graph interpretation.
• Concepts in genetics → specifics like transcription, translation, mutations, and Mendelian genetics. Focus on learning shorthand techniques like the Forklift method instead of performing a full dihybrid cross.
• Population biology & evolution → for instance, natural selection and the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Useful for interpreting experimental genetics data.
• Chemical bonding → intra- vs inter-molecular bonds and types. Can be easily tested in physical property questions.
• Stiochiometry → moles, ratios, limiting reagents. High-yield for quantitative reasoning.