We examine organic acids as precursors to aerosol formation. We do this by examining the hydration of formic acid with up to three water molecules. This approach starts at the molecular level, providing insight to the first steps of the processes that result in nucleation. Our methodology involves high-level molecular calculations. We present structures and energetics for these species. Using these methods, we predict a cooperative bonding effect that may be present in other aerosol precursors. This methodology also may provide some insight into the hygroscopic growth of these particles. We discuss some possible atmospheric implications of this work.