Best mnemonics for meiosis phases?
Exam in 9 days and I still confuse all the phases. Does anyone have good mnemonics or memory tricks for prophase I, metaphase I, anaphase I etc.? Especially how to remember differences between meiosis I and II. Anything helps!!
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Here are some popular and working mnemonics + simple logic:
For stages in order (both divisions):
PMAT — Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase (same as mitosis)
For Meiosis I vs II remember:
Meiosis I = “Homologous pairs say goodbye”
• Prophase I — crossing over (the only place where it happens!)
• Metaphase I — pairs (homologues) line up
• Anaphase I — homologues separate
• Telophase I — two haploid cells (still duplicated)
Meiosis II = “Sister chromatids separate”
• Metaphase II — single chromosomes line up
• Anaphase II — sister chromatids separate
• End result — four haploid cells with one chromatid each
Crossing over mnemonic: “Prophase I — chromosomes CROSS and OVERlap”
Another trick: Meiosis I reduces number (2n → n), Meiosis II reduces amount (2c → 1c).
For detailed drawings and names of every sub-stage look here: phases of meiosis
Use colors: draw maternal chromosomes red, paternal blue — helps see crossing over instantly.