What’s on the DAT Science Section? How to Study Effectively
Introduction
If you're preparing for the Dental Admission Test (DAT), you probably already know that the science section is the largest and most heavily weighted part of the exam. It covers Biology, General Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry—and mastering it is key to a competitive score.
At Dental School Declassified, our tutors are licensed dentists who scored in the 98th percentile or higher on the DAT. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what’s tested on the DAT science section, and show you how to study efficiently—without wasting time or burning out.
What’s on the DAT Science Section?
The Survey of the Natural Sciences section is the first—and longest—section on the DAT. You’ll have 90 minutes to answer 100 multiple-choice questions.
✅ Here’s the breakdown:
Biology – 40 questions
General Chemistry (Gen Chem) – 30 questions
Organic Chemistry (Orgo) – 30 questions
Let’s take a closer look at each.
🔬 DAT Biology: 40 Questions
Topics Include:
Cell and molecular biology
Genetics
Evolution, ecology, and behavior
Anatomy and physiology
Developmental biology
Biological diversity
Plant and microbiology
Study Tips:
Focus on broad coverage rather than deep dives
Use flashcards for vocab-heavy areas (e.g. cell organelles, taxonomy)
Master high-yield systems: circulatory, nervous, endocrine
Practice with DAT-style questions (timed!) to build recall speed
✅ Pro Tip: Use a study tool like Anki with spaced repetition to keep hundreds of facts fresh.
⚗️ DAT General Chemistry: 30 Questions
Topics Include:
Atomic structure
Periodic trends
Stoichiometry
Chemical reactions
Acids and bases
Equilibrium
Thermodynamics
Electrochemistry
Study Tips:
Know how to manipulate formulas without a calculator
Understand key concepts like Le Châtelier’s Principle and ideal gas laws
Review common lab techniques and error analysis
Work on dimensional analysis—it shows up often on DAT problems
✅ Pro Tip: Create a formula sheet and practice identifying which formula applies to each type of question.
🧪 DAT Organic Chemistry: 30 Questions
Topics Include:
Nomenclature
Resonance and hybridization
Acid-base chemistry
Functional group reactions
Reaction mechanisms
Spectroscopy (IR, NMR, Mass Spec)
Stereochemistry
Aromatic compounds
Study Tips:
Memorize high-yield reactions and mechanisms—the DAT tests patterns
Understand electrophile/nucleophile behavior and reaction types
Practice predicting products with reaction flashcards
Learn how to interpret basic spectra (especially IR and NMR)
✅ Pro Tip: Don’t waste time over-analyzing low-yield mechanisms. Focus on the most commonly tested reactions, such as SN1, SN2, E1, and E2.
🧠 How to Study Effectively for the DAT Science Section
1. Start with a Study Schedule
Plan at least 8–12 weeks for DAT prep
Rotate subjects daily to keep material fresh
Include weekly full-length science practice blocks
2. Use High-Quality Materials
Invest in DAT-specific resources (e.g., DAT Bootcamp, DAT Destroyer, DATQVault)
Combine practice questions with video content for conceptual clarity
Don’t rely solely on your college notes—DAT questions are more conceptual and fast-paced
3. Practice Timed Questions Early and Often
You’ll need to answer 100 science questions in 90 minutes—that’s less than a minute per question
Practice with realistic question sets and full-length exams
Track accuracy and speed to simulate test conditions
4. Review Your Mistakes Deeply
Keep a “Mistake Journal” to record what you got wrong and why
Revisit weak topics weekly
Don’t just redo questions—re-teach the concept to yourself or a tutor
5. Consider Working with a Tutor
Personalized tutoring helps you target your weak points and study more efficiently
A good tutor will give you insight into DAT question logic, not just content review
At Dental School Declassified, all tutors are licensed dentists who crushed the DAT and know exactly how to help you do the same
Final Thoughts
The DAT science section can feel overwhelming—but with the right strategy and support, it’s completely conquerable. Focus on coverage, repetition, and practice under timed conditions. Know the test format inside and out. And when you get stuck, don’t go it alone.
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📚 Customized study plans and DAT-specific question sets
🎯 Learn how to study smarter—not harder
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