I wanted to post on here to give some advice for others taking the exam in 2013. I took my DAT last week and was definitely happy with the results. I didn't score crazy high like I've seen some people post about, but I was pleased with my score.
For Bio, I used Cliffs AP Bio and read through that thing 2x, 3x or more on subjects I assumed would be heavily tested upon. I made thorough study guides time and time again, and that really helped to lock the info in.
I also spent a lot of time going through an actual Bio textbook at the lib, gaining a bit of detail where I was lacking. I've got experience in Anatomy and Physiology, but little actual Bio experience. I scored a 20 on my bio section.
Gen Chem & Ochem--Again, I've only taken 1 semester of Orgo, I'm taking Ochem 2 next semester. I used Chad's videos at course saver .c o m, and that material is invaluable. If you ever read this, Chad, thank you! Seriously, so worth the money. I based most of my chemistry on Chads material and the DAT Destroyer (10/10 for chemistry, 7/10) for other subjects. I scored 19 in Gen Chem, and a 23 in Orgo.
QR--I used DAT Destroyer primarily. My lowest score was in this section, so I won't offer too much advice other than practice enough to where you feel relatively comfortable. I've read this is the least important section, but it's still not to be taken lightly. I scored an 18 in this section.
Reading--I practiced using DAT Bootcamp--great resource for all subjects btw--and I felt the practice tests for reading specifically were much more difficult than the real DAT, which was a good thing. I scored a 24 in this section.
PA--I enjoyed Perceptual Ability, and I used CrackDATPAT. Considering the first test I took I scored like a 15 on, it definitely was worth the money. Invest time in practicing AND reviewing this sectioning. Do research on specific sections where you're lacking--there are TONS of free techniques(pattern folding, cube counting, etc.) out there that will aid in improving your score. I scored a 21 on the real DAT, although I feel like given a second shot I could do better. Invest the time, and its totally do-able.
I studied hard for this test--I really gave it my all day in, and day out. I studied for 2.5 months, with a lot of time invested. For anyone out there struggling, I am 100% confident in saying that if you dump everything you have into this test, you CAN succeed! Keep up the hard work--if you do it right the 1st time, it'll be the only time you have to take it. GOOD LUCK! Believe in yourself, your ability, and what you're capable of. Keep your head in the books!
Other materials I used in case anyone is interested DAT:
DAT Bootcamp--10/10
DAT Achiever--Yes, it was hard as hell. My best AA was like a 16, so dont get discouraged.
Cliffs AP Bio--9/10
***********--10/10
DAT Destroyer--Chem 9/10 (although much more difficult than actual DAT, it is great prep material). Everything else was decent.
If I can answer any questions, give me a shout!
Now, off to finish the personal statement. Wish me luck!
With confidence, integrity, and hard work, anything is possible.
AA-21 Science AA-21
Hi everyone,
I know most people in here have successfull averaged 20+ on the academic and PAT section of the DAT. Could you answer the following.
1. What were your DAT scores?
2. What books/prep courses did you use?
3. When did you start studying for the DAT?
4. How did you prepare for the exam? How many hours a day did you study?
5. What study methods were a waste of time? What methods do you wish you spent more time working on?
6. How much material did you remember prior to studying for the DAT? Were you clueless in the beginning or did you feel that you had a firm understanding of the material?
7. Do you believe that you can work your way to a 20 regardless of your intelligence and test-taking ability?
