Maths for Science

The thought of maths fills many of us with dread, taking us back in many cases, to long forgotten
classes. But it is crucial to bear in mind that GAMSAT does not test mathematics for its own sake,
otherwise a calculator would be essential. Understanding how to work with equations, for example, in
the context of scientific scenarios to reach solutions is the key. Many of our students at medical
school tell us the techniques they learnt have been invaluable when faced with drug and other calculations
under pressure.

The aim of this one-day module is to ‘demystify’ the use of mathematical formulae and equations
by identifying appropriate methodology and approaches. The course will equip you with a set of tools
to help you apply mathematics to scientific problems so that you can reach answers correctly, and as
quickly as possible. As it is not possible to use a calculator in the test, the need to familiarise yourself
with as many techniques and shortcuts as possible is paramount.

Whilst the link with Physics is an obvious one, remember that mathematical applications such as
proportionality, changing units, interpretation of graphs, exponential changes, trigonometry and
logarithms are found in both Chemistry and Biology. The techniques we cover will be utilised across all
three sciences and can add a surprising number of marks to your score overall.

The course includes a 60-page booklet specifically produced to cover almost all of the conceivable
mathematical topics and techniques you may need. These are introduced in such a way that you should
be “up and running” with them in a comparatively short time. Where possible, emphasis is given to time-
saving methods and most importantly, how these are applied in a GAMSAT setting. This booklet will also
serve you well after the course, as it includes additional development exercises.

Topics include:
 The SI system of units and their prefixes - How to convert correctly and quickly between different sets
of units. How to express large and small numbers in standard form.
 Standard form in calculation
 Moles based calculations in solution
 The importance of estimation for GAMSAT
 Indices - Manipulation and speed of application in calculation.
 Algebra - Manipulation of equations. Changing the subject of an equation.
 Basic trigonometry - Sine, Cosine and Tangent. Usage in right-angled triangles and in
representing wave motion. Radians.
 Proportionality and inverse proportionality - Equations that represent these patterns. Associated
graphs and quick methods to deal with problems. Scale factors.
 Straight-line graphs - Gradient and area under a straight-line graph and what they may represent
in scientific applications. Predicting what to plot given an equation connecting specific variables.
 Curved graphs - Gradient and approximate area under curves. Simple calculus notation (notation only!)
 Logarithms - Common and natural logarithms and using logarithms to linearize equations. Application
to scientific problems. Logarithmic scales (e.g. as used for sound intensity).
 Exponential processes - How to represent such a process as a straight line on a graph using
logarithms. Quick methods for spotting such processes from sets of data. Some of the terms met
when dealing with these changes, for example, half-life.
 Standard Deviation - meaning and usage.