Conclusion

We’re sure you’ve noticed that this chapter covers only a few reactions happening in a wide variety
of contexts. The MCAT testmakers don’t want you to memorize all the possible reactions; they
simply want you to truly understand the trends and the underlying reasons for these reactions.
Make sure you know the order of reactivity of the derivatives (from anhydrides, the most, to amides,
the least). Also, learn the special reactions of esters and amides. Your study of amides will pay off
right away as we explore amino acids and other nitrogen- and phosphorus-containing compounds
in the next chapter.