The Codon Table for the MCAT: Decode Protein Synthesis with Confidence

You’ll almost definitely encounter questions on DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis on the MCAT. The codon table—used to translate mRNA into amino acid sequences—is one of the most high-yield visuals you can memorize for exam day.

Thanks to this clear and color-coded King of the Curve visual, decoding a protein just became a lot easier.

🧬 What Is the Codon Table?

The codon table maps mRNA sequences (codons) to their corresponding amino acids, guiding the formation of polypeptides during translation.

Each codon is made of 3 RNA bases (A, U, C, G) and corresponds to one amino acid—or a stop signal.

Key Codons to Know for the MCAT

Codon	Function
AUG	Start codon (also codes for methionine)
UAA, UAG, UGA	Stop codons (signal termination of translation)

🧠 MCAT Tip: Don’t just memorize codons—practice reading the table and identifying start/stop sequences in the context of mRNA strands.

How to Read the Table

• Start with the first letter (left column)

• Move to the second letter (top row)

• Use the third letter (right column) to pinpoint the amino acid

Example:
Codon = AUG
A (1st letter, left side) → U (2nd letter, top) → G (3rd letter, right)
Result = Methionine (Start)

Why the Codon Table Matters on the MCAT

It’s tested in questions that ask you to:

• Translate mRNA sequences into amino acid chains

• Recognize start and stop codons

• Predict mutations and their consequences (e.g., silent vs nonsense mutations)

• Distinguish coding vs template strands of DNA

MCAT-Style Question Example

Question:
Which of the following mRNA sequences contains a premature stop codon?

A. AUG-GCC-CGU-UGA
B. AUG-GGU-ACC-GCU
C. AUG-CGC-GGC-UUA
D. AUG-UGU-UUC-CAA

✅ Correct Answer: A — UGA is a stop codon, which truncates the protein early.

Final Thoughts

The codon table is more than just a chart—it’s your translation key to understanding gene expression and mutations on the MCAT. With King of the Curve’s visual, this complex concept becomes second nature.

Call-to-Action (CTA)

🧬 Want more visuals like this one?

Download the King of the Curve App for:

• 1,000+ high-yield science visuals

• MCAT Q-banks & game modes

• Curve Coins, leaderboards & motivation boosters

🎯 Start Free for Life
🧠 Try Today’s Bio Question

---

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How many hours should I study for the MCAT each day?

  Aim for 4-6 focused hours, ensuring you incorporate breaks to avoid burnout.

• What is the best way to handle test anxiety?

  Practice mindfulness techniques, take practice exams under realistic conditions, and maintain a balanced lifestyle.

• How can I stay motivated during the long application process?

  Set short-term goals, seek support from mentors, and reward yourself for small achievements.

• What role does exercise play in MCAT preparation?

  Regular exercise improves focus, reduces stress, and enhances overall mental clarity.

• How does King of the Curve help with MCAT preparation?

  KOTC offers personalized learning tools, gamification features, and adaptive question banks to help students stay on track without burnout.