Top Tips for the Biology Section of the DAT
How to Study Smarter and Score Higher on DAT Bio
The Biology section of the DAT can feel overwhelming. With so much content—ranging from molecular biology to evolution to anatomy—it’s easy to wonder how you’ll ever master it all. The good news? You don’t have to memorize every word of your textbook to score high. You just need a smart strategy, strong foundation, and the right resources.
In this guide, we’re sharing our top tips for crushing the Biology section of the DAT—straight from tutors at Dental School Declassified, who all scored in the 98th percentile or higher.
What’s on the DAT Biology Section?
The Biology section is part of the Survey of the Natural Sciences, and includes 40 multiple choice questions covering:
Cell and Molecular Biology
Genetics
Evolution and Ecology
Anatomy and Physiology
Developmental Biology
Biological Diversity
You have 90 minutes total for 100 questions in the Natural Sciences section (Bio, Gen Chem, and Orgo), so time management is key.
Tip #1: Focus on High-Yield Topics
Not all topics are created equal. Some areas show up more frequently than others. Focus your energy on mastering these high-yield DAT Biology topics:
✅ Cell Biology (organelles, membranes, respiration)
✅ Genetics (Mendelian inheritance, Punnett squares, DNA replication)
✅ Anatomy & Physiology (especially endocrine, circulatory, and immune systems)
✅ Ecology & Evolution
✅ Taxonomy and classification (Kingdoms and phyla)
📌 Pro Tip: Track your weak areas with each practice test so you can refine your focus.
Tip #2: Don’t Just Memorize—Understand the Concepts
Yes, biology involves memorization—but the DAT often tests application of knowledge, not just facts. For example, you might be asked:
“Which of the following would increase the rate of diffusion across a cell membrane?”
To ace these, you need to understand mechanisms, not just definitions. Use visuals, concept maps, and YouTube videos to reinforce deeper comprehension.
Tip #3: Use Active Recall and Spaced Repetition
Passive reading doesn’t cut it. Instead, use these science-backed techniques:
Active Recall: Test yourself with flashcards or practice questions
Spaced Repetition: Use tools like Anki to review material over time
These methods help move information from short-term memory to long-term mastery—exactly what you need for the DAT.
Tip #4: Practice With Realistic Questions
The best way to prep for DAT Biology is by practicing DAT-style questions regularly. The question format often includes:
Tricky wording
“Best answer” choices
Conceptual understanding over memorization
Great practice resources include:
DAT Booster
DAT Bootcamp
Official ADA Sample Questions
📌 Pro Tip: After every quiz or practice test, review every question—even the ones you got right. Learn why each answer is correct or incorrect.
Tip #5: Learn From Diagrams
The DAT loves visuals—think cell diagrams, metabolic pathways, anatomical structures. Make sure to:
Label blank diagrams from memory
Use color-coded notes
Study common figures like the nephron, sarcomere, or DNA replication process
Diagrams are especially helpful for visual learners tackling complex systems.
Tip #6: Mix in Full-Length Practice Exams
As test day approaches, shift toward timed, full-length tests that simulate the actual exam. This helps with:
Stamina building
Time management
Integrating all the sciences together
Try to take at least 3–5 full-length exams before your test date.
Tip #7: Don’t Cram—Start Early
If you’re balancing school or work, start studying 3–4 months out, and aim for 1–2 hours per day. Early planning = less stress and better retention.
At Dental School Declassified, we often help students break their study plan into 3 phases:
Content Learning
Practice & Review
Full-Length Exams & Final Review
Each phase builds on the next, so you feel confident—not crammed—on test day.
Final Thoughts
The Biology section of the DAT can be intimidating—but with focused preparation, you can master it. Stick to high-yield topics, use active learning strategies, and practice often. The key is consistency over perfection.
Need help building a custom DAT Bio game plan? At Dental School Declassified, we offer personalized tutoring from licensed dentists who scored in the 98th percentile or higher. Whether you need help reviewing content or tackling tricky Bio questions, we’ve got your back.
