GAMSAT Preparation Courses

GAMSAT Question of the Day

Develop your GAMSAT reasoning skills with this daily source of Free GAMSAT Practice Questions.

Free GAMSAT Practice Test:

1. 100% online GAMSAT practice test with instant access.
2. 1 abbreviated practice test with features that simulate the 2021 digital GAMSAT:
   • 122 multiple choice sample questions covering Section 1 (47) and Section 3 (75) including instant scores and worked solutions for FREE.
   • 2 Writing Task essays with comments covering Section 2.
   • Free online forum thread for every GAMSAT sample question to discuss clarifications if necessary.
3. All sample questions simulate the real exam.
4. PLUS: It comes with a free GAMSAT Question of the Day and 1 hour of online Science Review Videos.

System Requirements

A regular PC computer (minimum of Pentium 200 MHz) or Apple computer (Mac OS X - Panther).

Please feel free to contact us for any queries regarding our monthly GAMSAT free online seminars through any of the following channels:

• GAMSAT-Prep Facebook page
• GAMSAT forum
• Gold Standard email

GAMSAT Maths Review

Free GAMSAT Maths Tips and Formulas

While the GAMSAT Maths section does not exist in the real exam, Section 3 does have a few problems (particularly in GAMSAT Physics or GAMSAT Chemistry) that require basic mathematical skills or manipulations. Keep in mind that the GAMSAT March 2012 sitting was the first time ever that calculators were banned. Many students were surprised by the number of calculations they were required to perform on the real exam. So, is it possible to pass these GAMSAT Maths questions without the help of a calculator?

Well, if you are patient, you will learn that being efficient and using pattern recognition can be very powerful. You CAN actually make "magic" with numbers on the GAMSAT. Below are a few quick and useful tips and formulas to add to your GAMSAT Maths techniques.

*For advice on essential items to bring during the exam, please check out our forum on GAMSAT Test Day Items.

Tip #1: Spot patterns in GAMSAT Maths.

Have you seen these numbers on GAMSAT Physics or GAMSAT Chemistry exams: 1.44, 1.69? Do they ring a bell? You should have memorised all squares between 1 and 15. You likely have 1 to 10 stone cold! 11 squared is 121, 12 is 144, 13 is 169, 14 is 196, 15 is 225 . . . Test makers choose their numbers carefully. The moment you see 1.44 on the GAMSAT, there would be a high likelihood that taking the square root, which gives 1.2, would be required. Pattern recognition, yes?

Tip #2: Given A = sq root B.

Sometimes the GAMSAT will say, if B increases by 44%, by what % will A increase? Easy as pie! If B increases by 44%, that is the same as saying 1.44(B) and we know that root 1.44 is 1.2, which means the original sq root B = A has increased by 20%. (Of course, it's not a math test so they won't use "A" and "B" but rather they may present a physics equation to you). Even if they tell you, "given g = 9.8 m/s²," you use 10 unless the answers are very close to each other.

Tip #3: A little blast from the past

Pi is 3.14, root 2 is 1.4, root 3 is 1.7. Don't be surprised if you need to calculate the perimeter (2 pi r) or area (pi r squared) of a circle. Be comfortable estimating the root of anything! Root 17? Well, the answer must be between 4 and 5 but closer to 4! Check the answers and don't calculate anything if there is only one answer that is between 4 and 4.5.

Tip #4: Avoid decimals until you have no choice!

Fractions will usually permit you to be more efficient. For huge and tiny numbers, you need to be comfy with scientific notation. And if you can hang on to variables for as long as possible, that's even better. You may be surprised how many times mass m ends up being irrelevant as it happily cancels out!

Tip #5: Build on your stored knowledge.

Most past "gamsatters" felt that they rarely used their calculators for GAMSAT Maths. So relax! Be sure that you know the basics and work through all of ACER's practice materials without the use of a calculator and then math will not hold you back!

The Basics

sin θ = opp/hyp	cos θ = adj/hyp	tan θ = opp/adj
θ = sin-1 x	Estimate square root 3 as 1.7 and root 2 as 1.4	r2 = x2 + y2

• Angle θ may be given in radians (R) where 1 revolution = 2π^R = 360°
• Cross-sectional area of a tube = area of a circle = πr² where π can be estimated as 3.14 and r is the radius of the circle; circumference = 2πr.

A.1 Basic Graphs

A.1.1 The Graph of a Linear Equation

Equations of the type y = ax + b are known as linear equations since the graph of y (= the ordinate) versus x (= the abscissa) is a straight line. The value of y where the line intersects the y axis is called the intercept b. The constant a is the slope of the line. Given any two points (x₁, y₁) and (x₂, y₂) on the line, we have:

y1 = ax1 + b

and

y2 = ax2 + b.

Subtracting the upper equation from the lower one and dividing through by x₂ - x₁ gives the value of the slope, a = (y₂ - y₁)/(x₂ - x₁).

Note: a positive slope rises as it extends to the right (as in the graph below), a negative descends, and if the line is horizontal, then the slope is zero.

A.1.2 Reciprocal Curve

For any real number x, there exists a unique real number called the multiplicative inverse or reciprocal of x denoted 1/x or x^-1 such that x (1/x) = 1. The graph of the reciprocal 1/x for any x is:

A.1.3 Miscellaneous Graphs

There are classical curves which are represented or approximated iin the Gold Standard GAMSAT textbook as follows (if you do not have the book, we suggest doing a Google image search so you can identify these shapes of these graphs/curves): Sigmoidal curve (CHM 6.9.1, BIO 7.5.1), sinusoidal curve (PHY 7.1.1, 7.1.2), and hyperbolic curves (CHM 9.7 Fig III.A.9.3, BIO 1.1.2).

If you were to plot a set of experimental data, often one can draw a line (A.1.1) or curve (A.1.2/3, A.2.2) which can "best fit" the data. The preceding defines a regression line or curve. The main purpose of the regression graph is to predict what would likely occur outside of the experimental data.

A.2 Exponents and Logarithms

A.2.1 Rules of Exponents

a0 = 1

a1 = a

an am = an+m

an/am = an-m

(an)m = anm

A.2.2 Exponential and Logarithmic Curves

The exponential and logarithmic functions are inverse functions. That is, their graphs can be reflected about the y = x line.

Figure A.1: Exponential and Logarithmic Graphs. A > 0, A ≠ 1.

A.2.3 Log Rules and Logarithmic Scales

The rules of logarithms were discussed in context of Acids and Bases in General Chemistry (CHM 6.5.1). These rules also apply to the "natural logarithm" which is the logarithm to the base e, where "e" is an irrational constant approximately equal to 2.7182818. The natural logarithm is usually written as ln x or log_e x. In general, the power of logarithms is to reduce wide-ranging numbers to quantities with a far smaller range.

For example, the graphs commonly seen in the Gold Standard GAMSAT textbook, including the preceding one, are drawn to a unit or arithmetic scale. In other words, each unit on the x and y axes represents exactly one unit. This scale can be adjusted to accommodate rapidly changing curves. For example, in a unit scale the numbers 1 (= 100), 10 (= 10¹), 100 (= 10²), and 1000 (= 10³), are all far apart with varying intervals. Using a logarithmic scale, the sparse values suddenly become separated by one unit: Log 10⁰ = 0, log 10¹ = 1, log 10² = 2, log 10³ = 3, and so on.

In practice, logarithmic scales are often used to convert a rapidly changing curve (e.g. an exponential curve) to a straight line. It is called a semi-log scale when either the abscissa or the ordinate is logarithmic. It is called a log-log scale when both the abscissa and the ordinate are logarithmic.

Many GAMSAT problems every year rely on a basic understanding of logarithms for pH problems, rate law (CHM 9.10) or a 'random' Nernst equation question (BIO 5 Appendix). Here are the rules you must know:

1. logaa = 1
2. logaMk = k logaM
3. loga(MN) = logaM + logaN
4. loga(M/N) = logaM - logaN
5. 10l°g10M = M

For example, let us calculate the pH of 0.001 M HCl. Since HCl is a strong acid, it will completely dissociate into H⁺ and Cl^-, thus:

[H+] = 0.001

-log[H+] = -log (0.001)

pH = -log(10-3)

pH = 3 log 10 (rule #2)

pH = 3 (rule #1, a = 10)

A.3 Simplifying Algebraic Expressions

Algebraic expressions can be factored or simplified using standard formulae:

a(b + c) = ab + ac

(a + b)(a - b) = a2 - b2

(a + b)(a + b) = (a + b)2 = a2 + 2ab + b2

(a - b)(a - b) = (a - b)2 = a2 - 2ab + b2

(a + b)(c + d) = ac + ad + bc + bd

A.4 Properties of Negative and Positive Integers

Positive + Positive = Positive

5 + 4 = 9

Negative + Negative = Negative

(-6) + (-2) = -8

Positive + Negative = Sign of the highest number and then subtract

(-5) + 4 = -1

(-8) + 10 = 2

Negative - Positive = Negative

(-7) - 10 = -17

Positive - Negative = Positive + Positive

= Positive

6 - (-4) = 6 + 4 = 10

Negative - Negative = Negative + Positive

= Sign of the highest number and then subtract

(-8) - (-7) = (-8) + 7 = -1

Negative x Negative = Positive

(-2) x (-5) = 10

Positive/Positive = Positive

8/2 = 4

Negative x Positive = Negative

(-9) x 3 = -27

Positive/Negative = Negative

64/(-8) = -8

Math Problems

Here are some challenging math problems, but if you can apply the basic rules then real GAMSAT math (i.e. related to physics and general chemistry problems) will not give you difficulties. The questions are followed by answers and worked solutions/explanations.

1. Simplify the expression: (x²)(y²)(x³)(y)(x⁰).
   1. x6y3
   2. x5y3
   3. x5y2
   4. xy3
   5. 0
2. Simplify the expression: (2x)^-2(((2x²)³)²).
   1. 16x5
   2. 16x6
   3. 16x8
   4. 16x10
   5. 16x12
3. Expand the expression: (x - y + 3)².
   1. x2 - y2 + 9
   2. x2 + y2 + 9
   3. x2 + y2 + 2xy + 6x + 6y + 9
   4. x2 + y2 - 2xy + 6x - 6y + 9
   5. x2 - y2 - 2xy + 6x - 6y + 9
4. Simplify the expression: (x^{2a + b})(x^{a - 2b}) / (x^{2a - b}).
   1. xa
   2. xab
   3. xa + 2b
   4. x5a - 2b
   5. x5a + 2b
5. Let x = 4 and y = 8. Evaluate the expression: ((y^-2/3)^1/2) / (x^-1/2).
   1. 8
   2. 4
   3. 1
   4. 1/2
   5. 1/4
6. Evaluate the expression: log₆(24) + log₆(9).
   1. 3
   2. 2
   3. 1
   4. 1/2
   5. 1/3
7. Solve for x: log₁₀(70) = x + log₁₀(7).
   1. 0
   2. 1
   3. 2
   4. 3
   5. 4
8. Simplify the expression: x(log_b(y)) + y(log_b(y)).
   1. logb(yx-y)
   2. logb(yx+y)
   3. logb(yxy)
   4. logb(xyxy)
   5. logb(xy)
9. Evaluate the expression: ln (e³)log₃(27) + ln (1)ln (e).
   1. e
   2. 3
   3. 6
   4. 3e
   5. 9
10. Solve for b: log_b(9) - 2(log_b(12)) = 2.
    1. 1/4
    2. 1/2
    3. 1
    4. 2
    5. 4
11. Which equation matches the graph below?
    
    
    
    1. y = 2x - 1
    2. y = -(2x)+ 1
    3. y = 2x
    4. y = -(2x)
    5. y = -(x2)
12. Which equation matches the graph below?
    
    
    
    1. y = ln (x)
    2. y = -ln (x - 1)
    3. y = -ln (x + 1)
    4. y = ln (x - 1)
    5. y = ln (x + 1)
13. As x increases, the slope of f(x) = 2^x-1:
    1. Decreases
    2. Increases
    3. Remains Constant
    4. Sometimes Decreases, Sometimes Increases
    5. Not Enough Information
14. pH is measured on a logarithmic scale given by the equation pH = - log₁₀(H), where 0<H<1. As H decreases, the slope of the graph of pH vs H:
    1. Decreases
    2. Increases
    3. Remains Constant
    4. Sometimes Decreases, Sometimes Increases
    5. Not Enough Information

Answer Key

1. B
2. D
3. D
4. A
5. C
6. A
7. B
8. B
9. E
10. A
11. D
12. E
13. B
14. B

Solution Explanations

1. First rearrange the expression and group like terms:
   
   (x2)(y2)(x3)(y)(x0) = (x2 x3 x0)(y2y)
   
   When multiplying powers with the same base, you can combine them by adding the exponents. For example:
   
   y2y = (y)(y)(y) = y2+1 = y3
   
   So the expression becomes:
   
   (x2 x3 x0)(y2y)

= x2+3+0y2+1

= x5y3.
2. We can break this problem two chunks: (2x)-2 and (((2x2)3)2). First consider (2x)-2. Because the exponent is negative, this is equal to the inverse of the positive power.
   
   (2x)-2 = 1/(2x)2
   
   Next, distribute the exponent throughout the parenthetical expression:
   
   1/(2x)2 = 1/(22x2)
   
   Now lets move to our second chunk, (((2x2)3)2). When you raise a power to another power, multiply the exponents together. And don't forget to distribute through the parenthetical expression.
   
   (((2x2)3)2) = ((23x(2)(3))2) = (2(3)(2)x(2)(3)(2)) = 26x12
   
   Finally, let's multiply the two chunks together to get back to the original expression:
   
   (2x)-2(((2x2)3)2)

= [1/(22x2)](26x12)

= (26x12)/(22x2)
   
   When dividing powers, subtract the exponents:
   
   = (26-2x12-2)

= 24x10

= 16x10.
3. When raising a polynomial to a power, treat everything inside the parentheses as if it was a single value. So (x - y + 3)2 is really (x - y + 3)(x - y + 3), NOT (x2 - y2 + 32). Now let's multiply and expand:
   
   (x - y + 3)(x - y + 3)

= x2 - xy + 3x - xy + y2 -3y + 3x - 3y + 9

= x2 + y2 - 2xy + 6x - 6y + 9.
4. First simplify the numerator:
   
   (x2a + b)(xa - 2b) / (x2a - b)

= (x2a+b+a-2b) / (x2a - b)

= (x3a - b) / (x2a - b)
   
   Then combine the numerator and denominator using the properties of exponent division.
   
   = (x3a-b-2a+b)

= xa.
5. First combine the exponents where possible, and rearrange so they are all positive:
   
   ((y-2/3)1/2) / (x-1/2)

= (y-1/3) / (x-1/2)

= (x1/2) / (y1/3)
   
   Now plug in x=4 and y=8. Notice that 4=22 and 8=23.
   
   = (41/2) / (81/3)

= (2(2)1/2) / (2(3)1/3)

= 21/21

= 1.
6. When adding logarithms of the same base, combine them by multiplying the numbers in parentheses. In this case:
   
   log6(24) + log6(9)

= log6(24*9)

= log6(216)

= log6(63)
   
   Now remember, a logarithm is an exponent. The question it poses is, "the base raised to what power is equal to the number in the parentheses?" So 6 raised to what power is equal to 63? The answer is, of course, 3.
7. First isolate the x terms on one side and all other terms on the other side of the equation.
   
   log10(70) = x + log10(7)

log10(70) - log10(7) = x
   
   Now combine the logarithms. When subtracting logarithms of the same base, combine them by dividing the numbers in parentheses.
   
   log10(70/7) = x

log10(10) = x

1 = x.
8. A coefficient multiplied by a logarithm can by brought inside the parentheses as an exponent.
   
   x(logb(y)) + y(logb(y))

= logb(yx) + logb(yy)

= logb(yxyy)

= logb(yx+y).
9. The natural log has base e. Note that a logarithm of 1, no matter what the base, is equal to 0. And a log of its own base is equal to 1. So:
   
   ln (e3)log3(27) + ln (1)ln (e)

= ln (e3)log3(27) + 0*1

= 3 log3(27)

= 3(3)

= 9.
10. First simplify the logarithms on the left side.
    
    logb(9) - 2(logb(12)) = 2

logb(9) - logb(122) = 2

logb(9/144) = 2

logb(1/16) = 2
    
    Now convert the equation into exponent form using the definition of logarithms.
    
    b2 = 1/16

b = √(1/16)

b = ¼.
11. There are some useful pieces of information to notice that will help you answer this type of problem.
    
    - What is the x and/or y intercept, if there is one?
    
    - Where is the vertical asymptote? [Note: an 'asymptote' refers to a line that keeps approaching a given curve but does not meet the curve at any finite distance.] And does the curve approach positive or negative infinity?
    
    In this case there is no x intercept, but the y intercept is at the point (0, -1). Plugging x = 0 into the given equations we can rule out all options except y = -(2x), so that is the solution.
12. There are some useful pieces of information to notice that will help you answer this type of problem.
    
    - What is the x and/or y intercept, if there is one?
    
    - Where is the vertical asymptote? And does the curve approach positive or negative infinity?
    
    The x and y intercept of this graph are the same, at (0, 0). Plugging in y = 0 to the given equations we can eliminate all but y = ln (x+1) and y = -ln (x+1). Next find the vertical asymptote. It appears to be located at x = -1, and the curve approaches negative infinity. When x is small, -ln (x+1) is positive, so it cannot be the solution. Thus the graph represents y = ln (x+1).
13. The -1 in the exponent of f(x) = 2x-1 does not change the behavior of the slope, it simply shifts the graph along the x-axis. The slope of f(x) = 2x increases exponentially as x increases.
14. You can think of pH and H as corresponding to y and x respectively. So the graph you are considering is y = -log10(x), the logarithm graph reflected about the x-axis. So the slopes along the curve are the opposite of the positive logarithm graph. Therefore when we decrease the value of x (moving right to left along the axis) the slope increases. If you are unsure of your solution, plug in test points to check.

Discuss any of our GAMSAT maths questions or worked solutions here: GAMSAT Math Forum.

Get 1 full hour access to free GAMSAT Physics and GAMSAT Chemistry and Biology videos online. Register here: Free GAMSAT-prep User Account.

Free GAMSAT Advice, Resources and Practice Test

Free GAMSAT Preparation Advice

Our Free GAMSAT Advice page contains links to various free resources that we believe can help increase your GAMSAT test performance. We have placed links that will help you be more analytical in the humanities and social sciences (Section 1) while, at the same time, helping you develop relevant content that you can use for your essays (Section 2). We have also placed links to officially corrected real past Writing Sample tests for the MCAT which simulates Writing Test A (argumentative) of GAMSAT Section 2 in terms of timing, length and format. For Section 3 advice, we have placed links to physics formulas (equation lists) and organic chemistry mechanisms which will help you practice for the real test. We have also recently added a few more helpful links to our list of free resources: monthly online seminar, free GAMSAT practice test and free Writing Test B essays with corrections/comments by our GS Essay Correction Service.

How Much Time Do I Need to Study for the GAMSAT?

We believe that a student who has a long history of regularly reading books or editorials, writing essays at a high level and has a strong scientific intuitive reasoning may only do a few practice tests and then excel when sitting the real GAMSAT. Most students must prepare much more than that. In our estimation, adequate GAMSAT preparation requires, on average, 3-6 hours per day for 3-6 months depending on your past academic and life experiences. So we have created a way for you to build a free personal study schedule GAMSAT test preparation. The Gold Standard believes that with adequate time, practice and preparation that you can achieve the GAMSAT score that you want. Good luck!

Help for Section 1 and Section 2

• TED.com
• The Economist
• Articles, Essays and Opinions
• Humanities e-Journal (free access)
• Australian Humanities Review (free access)

Depending on where you live, add (especially the editorial sections):

Australia

• Sydney morning Herald
• Financial Review

Ireland

• Irishtimes

UK

• Telegraph.co.uk
• Financial Times
• Mirror.co.uk

For English as a Second Language (ESL) students: http://www.eslfast.com

Help for Section 2

Corrected Writing Samples (simulates GAMSAT Writing Test A):

• MCAT Writing Samples (corrected by the AAMC)
• GAMSAT Writing Test B (corrections/comments by our GAMSAT Essay Correction Service)
• Elegant Essays (topical and short well-written essays)

These books are not free but very helpful for essay writing:

• The Meaning of Things by AC Grayling
• 50 Big Ideas You Really Need to Know by Ben Dupre

Help for Section 3

Live Monthly Online Seminar with Dr. Ferdinand
Free GAMSAT Seminar

Online webinars with Dr. Ferdinand

• General Review Covering Section 3 Topics
• GAMSAT Online Review Seminar

You can follow us on our teaching channel Wiz IQ so you can never miss the monthly webinars: http://www.wiziq.com/gold-standard.

• GAMSAT Physics Formulas
• GAMSAT Physics Sample Questions
• GAMSAT Organic Chemistry
• Free GAMSAT Maths Tips and Formulas

Free GAMSAT Practice Questions (Test) and Access to 1 hour of Science Review Videos
To sign up: GAMSAT-prep.com Registration
To learn more: Free Practice GAMSAT

If you already have an account, click login.

Gold Standard GAMSAT YouTube

Personal Study Schedule

• Download Study Schedule - 1
• Download Study Schedule - 2

Personal Notes: GAMSAT Study Tips

2020 GAMSAT Information Booklet from ACER

• Download Info Book

Questions, Comments, Concerns or Suggestions

• GAMSAT Forum

GAMSAT Preparation: Where to Start?

How Much Time Should I Study for the GAMSAT?

If you have always been an avid reader of novels and newspapers, who picks up new information in class quickly (irrespective of your actual grades) and you have or are completing a science degree, you might be one of the rare students who study for 1 - 3 weeks - or not at all - and still end up with a great GAMSAT score!

For the great majority of students, an average study time or GAMSAT revision timetable would be 3 to 6 hours/day for 3 to 6 months. If you have absolutely no science background (not even in high school) then you might need a couple of more months to learn the basics. Whatever your background, be sure to spend at least half of your study time sitting and carefully reviewing practice exams (post-test analysis) covering all 3 GAMSAT sections.

Let's repeat that: STUDY and POST-TEST ANALYSIS. These make up your formula for a smart GAMSAT study schedule.

Here's a free GOLD STANDARD tool to help you design your own personal GAMSAT study schedule:

Download Your Free Study Schedule Now »

The Gold Standard GAMSAT Study Schedule: How to Use It Effectively

The first step to an effective study preparation is to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Would Physics be your strongest, followed by Biology, then General Chemistry with Organic Chemistry and Humanities as the weakest? Do you even need some guidance in the Section 2 writing tasks?

Now remember that the basis of your assessment should be GAMSAT-specific and there are three ways for you to find out:

1. Consider your undergraduate background. If you have a science background, starting with the Section 1 review (Reasoning in Humanities and the Social Sciences) could be your best move. On the other hand, candidates without a science background are recommended to prioritise doing the science review. As we always say at the Gold Standard, "If you are wondering which subject to review first, start with the subject you 'hate' most (or know least about)!"
2. Get to know the GAMSAT. We have always emphasised the importance of understanding the skills being tested and the level of knowledge required in the GAMSAT. Your best source is the ACER material itself.
   
   As soon as the GAMSAT Information Booklet is available, download it and carefully read the details. Alternatively, you can get an overview of the GAMSAT, how it is scored, and the testing locations on our GAMSAT 2020-2021 page.
3. Sit a diagnostic test. ACER offers four practice tests, one is free with registration and 3 are available for purchase. Likewise, when you register for the GAMSAT, you will get one of the ACER booklets for free. Another free alternative is the Gold Standard Free GAMSAT Practice Test.

Your GAMSAT revision timetable must include post-test analysis. Ideally, you would use worked solutions to review the explanations for each question, thoroughly understanding why you got certain answers wrong. For ACER's GAMSAT Sample Questions ('blue booklet'), GAMSAT Practice Questions ('red booklet'), Practice Test 1 ('green booklet'), Practice Test 2 ('purple booklet') and Practice Test 3 ('pink booklet'), Gold Standard has uploaded more than 20 hours of worked solutions to YouTube covering 500⁺ multiple-choice Section 3 questions, for free: Gold Standard GAMSAT YouTube Channel. However, before sitting full-length practice GAMSAT tests, you should complete your content review so that you can use practice tests as trial runs. We have constructed an additional 10 full-length simulated exams should you require the extra practice.

After assessing your strengths and weaknesses using the three methods described above, you may now rank the subjects according to how you deem each in terms of difficulty. You can then determine how often in a week you would need to study your weakest subject (ranked as number 1, i.e., your top priority) down to your strongest (ranked as number 5).

Our recommendation is that you study your most and second most difficult subjects, as well as your easiest subject, twice a week.

As to the number of hours per day that you need for revision, an average of 3-6 hours would be ideal. Nevertheless, this should be realistically determined relevant to your university classes and or working hours.

Your academic grades also spell a difference. GAMSAT prep can take as long as 4 to 6 months if you averaged a C or if you have not taken two or more of the science courses in the undergraduate level. Granting you have taken all science sections and averaged an A, three months or less may be all you need.

GAMSAT Physics Equation Lists (Formulas and Topics)

• Memorizing GAMSAT physics equations does not replace understanding. Strong science reasoning may negate the need to memorize. However, the GAMSAT physics equations that we have listed can sometimes provide shortcuts when problem solving.
• alpha: α   mu: µ   delta: Δ
  If you don't see the highlighted Greek symbols above then the physics equations or formulas below will not make sense; thus adjust fonts on your browser to Unicode. Besides the formulas on this page, we have also recently added a GAMSAT physics syllabus (topic list).
• Please note: ACER announced in 2011 that calculators will no longer be permitted for GAMSAT Section 3. For this reason, we have created a separate page with useful tips and formulas related to GAMSAT Physics and Section 3 in order to help you develop math skills: Free GAMSAT Maths Tips and Formulas.
• We have placed some GAMSAT Physics practice questions with worked solutions here: GAMSAT Physics Sample Questions.

Memorize These!

Momentum, Impulse PHY 4.3	M = mv
Energy (conservation) PHY 5.5	ET = Ek + Ep
Work, Power PHY 5.7	P = ΔW/Δt
Current PHY 10.1	I = Q/t
Resistors (series, par.) PHY 10.2	Req = R1 + R2 . . .	1/ Req = 1/ R1 +1/ R2 . . .
Capacitors (series, par.) PHY 10.4	1/ Ceq = 1/ C1 +1/ C2 . . .	Ceq = C1 + C2 . . .
Kirchoff's Laws PHY 10.3.1	Σi = 0 at a junction	ΣΔV = 0 in a loop
Torque forces PHY 4.1	L1 = F1× r1 (CCW + ve)	L2 = F2 × r2 (CW -ve)
Torque force at EQ PHY 4.1	ΣFx = 0 and ΣFy = 0	ΣL = 0
Force PHY 2.2	F = ma
Weight PHY 2.1	W = mg
Pressure PHY 6.1.2	P = F/A
Buoyant Force PHY 6.1.1	ρ = mass / volume	Fb= Vρg = mg
Optics PHY 11.3	M = magnification = - i/o

Memorize as Pairs

F = KG ( m1 m2 / r2 ) PHY 2.4 and 9.1.2	F = k ( q1 q2 / r2 )
V = IR PHY 10.1 and 10.5	P = IV	Paired Use
vav = Δ d / Δ t PHY. 1.4.1	aav = Δ v / Δ t	(avg vel, acc)
v = λ f PHY 7.1.2 and 9.2.4	E = hf	(f = 1/T)
Ek = 1/2 mv2 PHY 5.3-4	Ep = mgh	(kin, pot E)

We Suggest (Can Save Time During Exam)

Translational motion PHY 1.6 and 2.5	x = xo + vo t + 1/2at2 | (Vf)2 = (Vo)2 + 2ax	Vf = Vo + at
Uniform circular motion PHY 3.3	Fc = mac = mv2 /r	ac= v2 /r
Work, Power PHY 5.1 and 5.7	W = F d cosθ	P = ΔW/Δt
Spring Force, Work PHY 7.2.1	F = -kx	W = kx2 /2
Refraction PHY 7.2.1	(sin θ1 )/(sin θ2 ) = v1 /v2 = n2 /n1 = λ1 /λ2	n = c/v
Pressure PHY 6.1.2	Δ Ρ = ρgΔh
Atomic Physics PHY 12.4	If the number of half-lifes n are known we can calculate the percentage of a pure radioactive sample left after undergoing decay since the fraction remaining = (1/2)n

Ocassionally Helpful for Theoretical Questions

Frictional force PHY 3.2	fmax = μN	μk < μs always
Momentum, Impulse PHY 4.3	I = F Δt = ΔM
Electric Force PHY 9.1.2	F = qE
Optics PHY 11.5	1/ i + 1/ o = 1/ f = 2/r = Power
Specific Gravity PHY 6.1.1	SG = ρ substance / ρ water	ρ = 1 g/cm3 = 103 kg/m3 (H2O)
Note: Specific gravity (SG) is equivalent to the fraction of the height of a buoyant object below the surface of the fluid.

Don't Memorize, Know How To Use...

Fluids in Motion PHY 5.3-4	Bernouilli's Equation	Ρ + ρgh + 1/2 ρv2 = constant
Solids, Temp Δ PHY 5.3-4	Linear Expansion	L = Lo (1 + αΔ T )
Area Expansion PHY 6.3	A = Ao(1 + γΔ T )
β = 3 α PHY 6.3	Volume Expansion	V = Vo(1 + βΔ T )
Doppler Effect: when d is decreasing use + vo and - vs PHY 8.5.1	fo = fs (V ± vo )/( V ± vs)
d = the distance between the plates PHY 10.4	V = Ed for a parallel plate capacitor
RH rule PHY 9.2.3	Laplace's Law	dF = dq v(B sin α) = I dl(B sin α)
W = 1/2 CV2 PHY 10.4	Work in Electricity	Potential Energy ( PE ) = W = 1/2 QV
ΔG° = -RTln Keq CHM 9.10	Gibbs Free Energy	ΔG = ΔH - TΔS
Continuity (fluids) PHY 6.1.3	A v = const.	ρAv = const.
Sound PHY8.3.1 -4	dB = 10 log 10 (I/I0 )	beats = Δ f
Thermodynamics PHY 8.7	Q = mc Δ T
Root Mean Sq PHY 10.5	Irms = Imax / √2
Energy (conservation) PHY 12.3	E = mc2

The Basics

sin θ = opp/hyp	cos θ = adj/hyp	tan θ =opp/adj
θ = sin-1 x	arcsec θ = sec-1θ	r2 = x2 + y2

• Angle θ may be given in radians (R) where 1 revolution = 2π^R = 360°
• Estimate square root 3 as 1.7 and root 2 as 1.4 (N.B. calculators are no longer permitted so these details may save you time in GAMSAT Physics or GAMSAT Chemistry).
• Cross-sectional area of a tube = area of a circle = πr² where π can be estimated as 3.14 and r is the radius of the circle; circumference = 2πr.

Please note: ACER announced in 2011 that calculators will no longer be permitted for GAMSAT Section 3. Our updated list of GAMSAT Physics Topics can be found towards the bottom of this page.

Some Units to Memorize

• Both work and energy are measured in joules where 1 joule (J) = 1 N × 1 m . {Imperial units: the foot-pound , CGS units: the dyne-centimeter or erg }
• The SI unit for power is the watt (W) which equals one joule per second (J/s) = volts × amperes.
• Current is measured in amperes = coulombs/sec. The units of resistance are ohms, symbolized by Ω (omega), where 1 ohm = 1 volt/ampere.
• The SI unit for pressure is the pascal (1 Pa = 1 N/m²). Other units are: 1.00 atm = 1.01 × 10⁵ Pa = 1.01 bar = 760 mmHg = 760 torr.

GAMSAT Physics Topics

The following GAMSAT Physics Topic list or syllabus is not meant to be exhaustive nor definitive. It is a guideline for topics that we cover for the GAMSAT preparation course during our live classes and in the videos that we have online or as DVDs.

TOPICS: The Atom, Nuclear Reactions, Radioactive Decay and Half-Life, Electricity vs. Gravity, Electric Circuits, Kirchhoff's Laws, Characteristics of Waves, Diffraction, Optics, Sound, Doppler Effect, Electromagnetism, Electromagnetic Spectrum, Reflection, Refraction, Thin Lens, Snell's Law, The Critical Angle, Force and Motion, Weight and Units, Friction, Applying Newton's Laws, Trigonometry, Projectile Motion, Work, Circular Motion, Work-Energy Theorem, Energy and Entropy, Momentum, Law of Torques, Fluids, Fluids in Motion, Archimedes' Principle

Related Helpful Links

• GAMSAT Physics Sample Questions
• GAMSAT Physics Videos Online
• GAMSAT Syllabus
• GAMSAT Maths
• GAMSAT Organic Chemistry Mechanisms

GAMSAT Organic Chemistry Mechanisms

GAMSAT Organic Chemistry mechanism summary list with explanations

Key Points

• For GAMSAT organic chemistry mechanisms, it is important to make sense of the reactions and avoid memorizing.
• Common GAMSAT topics and questions require you to follow the carbon chains (i.e. R, R', R'', R''').
• You can find descriptions of the reactions in one of our Gold Standard GAMSAT YouTube videos (on the left) or you can find descriptions by scrolling down this webpage.
• GAMSAT organic chemistry topics include questions related to stereochemistry and isomers which are not summarized by reaction mechanisms.
• Once your content review is complete, practicing with realistic practice questions (i.e. ACER ebooks, GS chapter review questions, GS practice tests) will ensure that you are ready for the real exam.

Organic Chemistry Mechanisms: Summary I

Organic Chemistry Mechanisms: Summary II

R = alkyl

Et = ethyl

X = halide

R- MgX+ = Grignard reagent

R- Li+ = alkyl lithium

Grignard reagents and alkyl lithiums are special agents since they can create new C-C bonds (see ORG 1.6).

*Reduction = addition of hydrogen or subtraction of oxygen. Mild reducing agents add fewer hydrogens/subtract fewer oxygens. Strong reducing agents add more hydrogens/subtract more oxygens. Cross-referencing to The Gold Standard GAMSAT textbook are found below.

Most reactions presented can be derived from basic principles (i.e. ORG 1.6, 7. 1). Many of the reactions are cross-refèrenced for further information.

1. An acid chloride reacts with a Grignard reagent to produce a tertiary alcohol. See ORG 1.6, 9.1.
2. An acid chloride reacts with a primary or secondary amine to produce an amide. See ORG 9.3 & 11.2.
3. A carboxylic acid reacts with SOC1₂ or PC1₅ to produce an acid chloride. See ORG 9.1
4. An acid chloride reacts with an alcohol (e.g. ethanol) to produce an ester. See ORG 9.4.
5. An amide reacts with LiAlH₄ to produce an amine. See ORG 8.2, 9.3.
6. A carboxylic acid reacts with an alcohol (e.g. ethanol) to produce an ester. See ORG 8.2.
7. An ester reacts with LiAlH₄ to produce a primary alcohol. See ORG 8.2, 9.4.
8. A carboxylic acid reacts with base to produce a carboxylate anion. See CHM 6.3 & ORG 8. 1.
9. An ester reacts with a Grignard reagent to produce a tertiary alcohol. See ORG 1.6, 8.1.1, 9.4.
10. A Grignard reagent reacts with carbon dioxide to produce a carboxylic acid. See ORG 8.1.1.
11. A nitrile reacts with aqueous acid to produce a carboxylic acid. See ORG 8. 1. 1.
12. A carboxylate ion reacts with ethyl iodide to produce an ester.
13. An alkyl halide reacts with Mg/ether to produce a Grignard reagent.
14. An alkyl halide reacts with NaCN to produce a nitrile. See ORG 6.2.3.
15. A nitrile reacts with LiAlH₄ to produce an amine. See ORG 8.2.
16. A primary alcohol reacts with HBr to produce an alkyl halide.
17. An acid chloride reacts with NaBH₄ to produce a primary alcohol. See ORG 8.2, 9. 1.
18. A primary alcohol reacts with CrO₃/pyridine to produce an aldehyde. See ORG 6.2.2, 7.2.1.
19. A acid chloride reacts with H₂/Pd/C to produce an aldehyde. See ORG 7.1, 7.2.1, 9. 1.
20. An aldehyde reacts with NaBH₄ to produce a primary or secondary alcohol. See ORG 7. 1, 8.2.
21. An aldehyde reacts with KMnO₄ to produce a carboxylic acid. See ORG 7.2.1, 8. 1. 1.
22. A carboxylic acid reacts with LiAlH₄ to produce a primary alcohol. See ORG 8.2.
23. An imine reacts with NaBH₄ to produce a secondary amine. See 7.2.3, 8.2.
24. An aldehyde reacts with a primary amine to produce an imine. See ORG 7.2.3.
25. An aldehyde reacts with a Grignard reagent and ether to produce a secondary alcohol. See ORG 1. 6, 7. 1.
26. An aldehyde reacts with aqueous NaCN. See ORG 7. 1.
27. A secondary alcohol reacts with Na₂CrO₇ or CrO₃/pyridine to produce a ketone. See ORG 6.2.2.
28. A ketone reacts with NaBH₄ to produce a secondary alcohol. See ORG 7.2. 1.
29. An acetal reacts with aqueous acid to produce an aldehyde. See ORG 7.2.1/2.
30. An aldehyde reacts with an alcohol (e.g. ethanol) and acid to produce an acetal. Note that using with less EtOH/H⁺, a hemiacetal will form. See ORG 7.2.2.
31. A ketone reacts with a Grignard reagent to produce a tertiary alcohol. See ORG 1.6, 9. 1.

GAMSAT Preparation Advice for Non-science Background Candidates

View our GAMSAT preparation advice for those with non-science background, which is a 33-minute video with Dr. Brett Ferdinand explaining the 70/30 formula and other strategies for an effective GAMSAT review.

For discussions and questions, please feel free to post on our GAMSAT forum for Non-Science Background Candidates.

GPA/GAMSAT Score Requirements

Gold Standard GAMSAT has created and continually updates free webpages with GPA scores, GAMSAT requirements and other admissions information for medical schools in Ireland, as well as the UK and Australia. We hope you find our free resources helpful to your admissions preparation. Good luck!

• Ireland's Medical Schools
• Graduate Entry Medicine UK Admissions Requirements
• Graduate Entry Medicine Australia Admissions Requirements