30+ MCAT Study Habits- The CBT Version

omegaxx · Feb 18, 2007

1) Your individual scores and composite score
PS=14 VR=13 WS=Q BS=14 Composite=41Q

2) The study method used for each section
PS&BS: Reviewed all the materials (except Organic Chem, because I just finished a year long O. Chem course and knew it like the back of my hand). Practiced.
VR: Practice, practice, practice.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
Princeton Review all the way.

4) Which practice tests did you use?
Princeton Review all the way.
I also bought AAMC 4-6 for building confidence two weeks before the actual exam.

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Pharmacology & English, although I took the exam after sophomore year so I just had the prereq sciences and five English courses under my belt.

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?
Read smartly, and read a lot, not just textbooks and scientific papers and newspaper, but also materials in the humanities department.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
2.5 months (~10 weeks), averaging ~3 hrs/day.

kitkit · Sep 30, 2009

1) Background:

I am a Junior this Fall and took the MCAT in August. I will apply to med schools next fall. My major is a foreign language (Slavic) with a minor in econ. I was born here in the US and am of Asian ancestry. English is not my 1st language. I have taken the bare minimum science courses required for med school i.e. AP chem., 2 semesters of intro Physics, 2 semesters of Bio and a 8 week summer course in Orgo. My strategy was to take the MCAT this summer and retake if I did not do well in Jan 2010.

2) Your individual scores and composite score

PS=11 VR=12 WS=S BS=12
Overall = 35S

3) The study method used for each section

I took the Kaplan classroom course and attended all of the class room session except 2 that were on verbal. I developed and followed my own schedule and did just the bare minimum that the Kaplan classroom required. I did use the Kaplan online resources extensively. Using the various books I had but mainly from EK books, I made my own notes for each topic listed in the Official MCAT guide book. This was about 100 sheets sections of which I reviewed almost daily in the 30 days leading to the test date.
Verbal:
EK101 passages; Kaplan online tests on days when I was not doing a FL test. I did not use the Kaplan method. I never got more then a 11 on any of the practice tests. Focus and concentrations are key here.

Physical Sciences:
Reviewed TPR Physical Science book once; Reviewed GS book once; EK Physics + EK Physics 1001 (did 1 in 4 questions); EK Chem. (but did not do EK Chem. 1001); Did ALL of the Kaplan online material i.e. Topical tests, Section tests, Subject tests and all the questions in the Quiz Bank
Biological Sciences:
Reviewed Kaplan Science book once; Reviewed GS book once; EK Bio + EK Bio 1001 (did all); EK Orgo + EK Orgo 1001 (did all); Did ALL of the Kaplan online material i.e. Topical tests, Section tests, Subject tests and all the questions in the Quiz Bank

Writing:
Each time I took the AAMC test, I would also do the writing section as practice.

4) What materials you used for each section

TPR books; GS book; Kaplan books and online material; EK books and my own notes

5) Which practice tests did you use?
Kaplan diagnostic test = 19
AAMC 8 test Avg = 33.7
Kaplan 11 test Avg = 34.0
GS 10 test Avg= 28.9

Yes I did 29 FL tests in all in the 45 days leading to the test date. After taking the test under timed conditions, I would spend an extra hour reviewing the problems I got wrong and also the ones I guessed. I would also note this information on an excel spreadsheet that I created to keep track of my progress. I noted the % correct and the ones I got wrong / guessed on and /or were of particular interest. These noted problems I reviewed again the week before the test. Much has been said about the accuracy of the various FL tests as it reflects your actual test result. I did not think much about the tests in this context but simply looked at them as an avenue to practice different types of material. So my emphasis was not on how much I scored on each test but how I could learn from the mistakes I made.

6) What was your undergraduate major?

Foreign language with a minor in econ

7) Any tips you might have for those of us who still have the test lurking over us?

Be organized in you approach and do as many practice tests as possible once you have reviewed the content. After having done so many different types of FL and practice tests under timed conditions, I did not feel that the real MCAT was much different. I think doing a variety of tests was helpful.

8) How long did you study for the MCAT?

Overall 90 days of which the first 15 days were haphazard and not organized but once I got a rude awakening with my diagnostic test, I became more focused. I spent the next 75 days studying on an average 6 to 8 hours daily. This included my time to attend Kaplan classes as well. I did not study after 9PM and slept until 10AM on most days. When I did feel sort of burnt out, I would go to the movies or hang out with friends but never for more then 4 hours in a day. I am glad it is over.

FeatherPen · Sep 30, 2009

1) Your individual scores and composite score
33-35 O-T

2) The study method used for each section
EK "Complete Study Package" and EK 1001's and EK Verbal (All Subjects)

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
All Examkrackers

4) Which practice tests did you use?
AAMC, 2 Kaplan, 1 EK that came with the "CSP"

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Biology

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?
Do not get overly comfortable with a specific set of writing utensils or scrap paper. My scrap paper was neon pink, and my pencil was of the non-mechanical variety. Earplugs can be very useful depending on the testing center, as well.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
6 weeks, 8 - 12 hours per day. Weeks 1-4.5 were content review. The last 11 days consisted of 11 practice exams. 1 day of rest before the exam.

Jumpman04 · Oct 3, 2009

1) Your individual scores and composite score

11 PS, 10 VR, 10 BS - P
COMP: 31P

2) The study method used for each section

Verbal: EK 101 Passages, BR Verbal Passages

Bio: TPR Hyper Review, TPR Science Workbook, EK Bio Book, EK Audio Osmosis, Kaplan Premier 2010

Chem: TPR Hyper Review, TPR Science Workbook, EK Audio Osmosis, Kaplan Premier 2010

OChem: TPR Hyper Review, TPR Science Workbook, EK Orgo Book, EK Audio Osmosis, Kaplan Premier 2010

Physics: TPR Hyper Review, TPR Science Workbook, EK Physics Book, EK Audio Osmosis, Kaplan Premier 2010, my college physics book for few examples...

Full-Length Tests:
->Bought all 8 AAMC tets (you HAVE to buy them all. essential practice)
->Downloaded a bunch of Kaplan practice tests from some website. Stop at FL-6 cause after that, they begin to be really unrepresentative of the real test.

3) What was your undergraduate major?

Finance. Thought it would be fun/easy/exciting but it definitely wasn't easy. Some of the +300 level courses take a lot of intensive reading/understanding that will take time away from your science classes...

4) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Work on topics you have problems with in the final weeks! DO NOT put it off. I know it's the easier path to take, but bite the bullet and make it your strongest points.

5) How long did you study for the MCAT?

~2 months for about 8-10 hours a day... I got a 17 on my first practice test before i did any content review. Started fully with content review, then jumped onto TPR Science Workbook (a life-saver if you need practice with passages), then finished with 3-4 weeks of Full lenght tests mixed with content review.

mathsciencedude · Oct 4, 2009

1) Your individual scores and composite score
Test date: 8/25/2009; VR 10 PS 13 WS M BS 10 Total 33M

2) The study method used for each section
I did not develop any type of study regimen. I completed courses in physics, physiology, chemistry, and social sciences in my undergraduate curriculum. In those courses, I did not just do the minimum amount of work to earn an "A" grade. I read outside sources, seeking insights from other textbooks and journals to delve deeper into the underlying concepts. This way of learning helped me to retain the information 3-4 years later.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
None

4) Which practice tests did you use?
I took a practice AAMC Test (PR #3) 2 years ago. Interestingly enough, my results from the AAMC test #3 were the same as my actual 8/25/09 MCAT, with the exact same breakdown for each section.

On a side note, I took a Kaplan diagnostic at one of their events a few weeks after I took the 8/25 MCAT and scored the same thing as my actual MCAT, with the same breakdown. Kaplan's diagnostic as well as AAMC practice tests are predictive of what you will score on an MCAT, all else remaining constant (i.e. no prepping/studying).

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Biomedical Engineering, minor in Mathematics, 3.92 GPA

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Be confident in your strengths, recognize your weaknesses, and use your strengths to counteract those weaknesses. When taking the actual MCAT, on the science sections skip around to a topic in which you have a working knowledge of its concepts. Use this knowledge to guide you through those questions. For instance, I never took a full year of general biology. I did complete courses in organic chemistry and physiology. I searched for all questions that involved physiology and organic chemistry and focused on answering all of those questions correctly.

For verbal, you can miss about 10 questions and sill obtain a 10. I focused all of my efforts into 5 passages, neglecting 2 passages, and it worked for me.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
I did not study for the MCAT (see 2 above). Take learning seriously. Do not just learn for a grade. Do learn for learning's sake.

Best wishes,

m_s_d

myusernam3 · Oct 6, 2009

1) Your individual scores and composite score
Test date: 9/4/2009 B:15, P:13, V:10, 38Q

2) The study method used for each section
For verbal, i read and tried to understand the passage as a whole, no stupid PR strategy. For BS and PS, just try to see which passages u'll have to read like a verbal passage and which passages u can attack with ur outside knowledge.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
TPR Hyperlearning, AAMC, Examkrackers verbal

4) Which practice tests did you use?
AAMC TPR

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Physiological Sciences

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Study hard and nail ur strenghts. What i mean by taht is, for example, i suck at verbal. and so to make sure i can maximize my score i ensured i'd do good on PS and BS. Lastly, if your scores arent getting to your goals, be patient. it will get there as long as your goals are reasonable.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
From June 15th 2009, to September 3rd 2009.

Goodluck to all!

cdeagle68 · Oct 6, 2009

1)PS=12 VR= 09 WS=Q BS=11 Composite=32Q

2) I used ExamKrackers and Princeton Review books and online material- The classroom is a little too simple for the real MCAT.
#1 difference between my first time preparing with Kaplan and second time was I studied how I would normally study for an exam at school. The first time I took it I would just read the material and go over my mistakes. The second time I took notes on the material that wasn't common knowledge or had details that needed to be retained (mostly from physical sciences) and notes on why I missed answers. Then, a few days before the exam I went over these things until I had them down.

3) Examkrackers and Princeton Review books and online material.

4) Which practice tests did you use?
Princeton Review definitely has the most realistic tests, and they provide you with the AAMC ones. Trust me, you will fail hardcore on some of these exams (esp. the first Princeton ones. I think they try to scare you in to studying insanely hard.) and do extremely well on others, but most of them are in the middle and will be what you're looking at.
<Watch out for Kaplan Tests. I was doing well on those the first time around, but obviously my first MCAT score didn't correspond to those scores.>

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Bio and Psych.

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?
Verbal takes a lot of practice and even then, it is still hit or miss. #1 get used to doing it in time, and second when the real thing throws a curve at you- ain't nothing gonna break your stride, ain't nothing gonna slow you down, Oh, no... you've got to keep on moving.

Also I felt horrible coming out of the exam. There was a whole passage on BDE, and I never read more than a line or two about it while studying for the exam. So try not to worry about it. Also, they are really good about following the score release schedule, so no sense in panicing before that date.

ExamKrackers 101 passages are a little too simple and don't have the philisophy or humanities passages that will definitely twist your noodle while reading. The Princeton passages are great and Kaplan aren't too shaby either.

Tutoring is a waste of time and money. They will only explain what is already explained to you.

7) I studied 6 months- First 3 months about 20 hours, since I was really busy with other things. Second 3 months- about 8 hours a day with a day or two off a week.

brandnew1 · Oct 7, 2009

1) Your individual scores and composite score
12 P, 11 V, 10 B (33R)

2) The study method used for each section

Physics: Used Berkeley Review for GChem and Physics. Honestly they do wonders. I considered physics to be by far my weakest subject entering my studies, however towards the end I was hitting 13 and 14 on my AAMCs. Obviously I did not hit that high on the real thing, however I am very happy with a 12.

Verbal: Nothing much other than doing some of the passages out of the Princeton Review. Honestly this is the hardest section to improve in and I'm probably a bad guy to get advice from concerning VR. I started out with a 10 on both of my diags (before any practice) and only improved a point... I know that an 11 is a solid score but there really wasn't any special technique. I'm a very fast reader which helped me out on timing a lot but also caused me to miss some details that ended up tripping me up on a few questions so it kind of hurt and helped me.

Biology: Read through the Princeton Review book bio section a few times. Tried doing some of the EK Biology 1001 but found it rather redundant. Bit disappointed in my score on this section; I did not have a strong bio background going into the test however that hasn't hindered most others in my position. My best advice would be to read a lot of upper level molecular genetics stuff as that seems to be heavily emphasized. Also GET the BR Orgo book (the one mistake I made was not ordering those). There were 3 orgo passages on my exam and I was woefully underprepared for them.

Writing: nothing at all. Just went over Princeton's guidelines for the WS the night before.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
I started out with the TPR bookset so in the beginning I was using the TPR books for all 3 sections. I ditched the TPR physics after my scores were coming back extremely low and switched to BR. My scores skyrocketed after that. Used EK 101 passages for VR, these helped a lot. For BIO I just used the TPR book.

4) Which practice tests did you use?

Here are my practice exam scores for anyone looking for a reference (which is something I found really helpful):

Real Thing: 12, 11, 10 (33)

In chronological order:

TPR 1 5, 10, 6 (21)
TPR 2 6, 6, 7 (19)
TPR 3 8, 10, 9 (27)
TPR 4 8, 10, 10 (28)
TPR 5 8, 9, 9 (26)
TPR 6 7, 9, 11 (27)
TPR 7 9, 9, 11 (29)
TPR 8 8, 8, 10 (28)
TPR 9 10, 10, 9 (29)

AAMC 3 11, 10, 10 (31)
AAMC 4 11, 10, 11 (32)
AAMC 5 11, 12, 11 (34)
AAMC 6 11, 11, 11 (33)
AAMC 7 13, 11, 12 (36)
AAMC 8 12, 11, 12 (35)
AAMC 9 13, 13, 10 (36)
AAMC 10 14, 9, 13 (36)

5) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?
Do not get discouraged over lower test scores initially. Wait until you have completed your content review before you even consider judging yourself as ready or not. Also do not be afraid to alter your test taking strategies til you find something you're comfortable with; the time for sticking to a format will be during the actual MCAT, you can mess around with your timing mechanisms as much as you like during your practice tests.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
3 months, probably 3-4 hours per day on average. Started off going 6-7 hours per day but really burnt out towards the end and I was lucky if I got in 3 hours per day in the last few weeks. DO NOT hesitate to take days off towards the end if you feel burnt out; others have said this many many times on here, however it is true. Taking a day off or two really re-energizes you and puts that sense of urgency back in your head. Nothing is worse than feeling tired or dejected while forcing yourself to study for an exam that may still be a few weeks away.

sivar1215 · Oct 11, 2009

1) Your individual scores and composite score

9 P, 7 V, 8 B: 24 N 7/2/09
10 P, 12 V, 10 B: 32 M 9/10/09

2) The study method used for each section

Physics: Used Princeton Review and EK for content review first time around. Also used the TPR workbook to do practice problems. Reread the TPR book for the second exam and focused in on the sections that were giving me trouble on the practice exams.

Verbal: Used TPR workbook and some EK 101. I believe that the Gold Standard Practice tests that I used the second time around really helped me, not because of their difficulty, but because they allowed me to practice more under timed conditions.

Biology: Read the TPR text and EK text the first time around. I also did practice passages from the TPR workbook. The second time around I reread the TPR book and focused in on the sections that were giving me trouble (Renal Physiology, Effects of certain hormones, etc.)

Writing: Did not do much, as is evidenced by my writing score 🙁

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

I used the TPR hyperlearning series and the EK text. However, the second time around I picked up a Kaplan Premier Program text (just to get a different approach to the same material) and the AAMC's official guide to the MCAT. The second time around I also did not look at any EK materials and solely focused on the TPR books when I needed to learn something in great detail. I would also listen to the Audio Osmosis CDs for both exams.

4) Which practice tests did you use?

1st time around I used AAMC Tests 3-6, 8 and 10. I was averaging between 24-29 on these exams; with an upward trend towards the end.

2nd time around I used Gold Standard Exams 1-8, which I was averaging between 27-30 on. The physical science sections on these exams were more calculation intensive that the AAMC ones, and definitely helped me out a lot. The bio sections were on par with the AAMC exams, and the verbal was easier, and scaled accordingly. I also took AAMCs 7 and 9 which I received 27s on. However, this time around I realized that I was messing up on some of the very easy questions, about 2-3 in each section, and just needed to focus more, which I believed played a major role on the day of my 2nd MCAT.

5) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Make sure to have a very good grasp of all of the content before you take the exam. The first time I rushed through the content review in order to take as many practice exams I could take. Although practice exams are essential in order to build stamina and confidence on the real thing, you need to develop a thorough understand of all the material as well.
Also, don't give up on yourself. I felt like my first score was not indicative of my level of preparation for the MCAT at the time. The extra month that I spent studying between the first and second exams allowed me to hone in on my weak points (stoichiometry, electrostatics, etc.) and practice them well.

I believe that the big difference in my verbal score could be attributed to being more focused on the second exam. I was feeling very nervous and jittery during the first exam and wasn't able to maintain a clear train of thought throughout the passages. Wearing the headphones also helped me by blocking out all of the background noise which may have been contributing to my nervousness.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?

For the first exam, I studied from May to mid June for about 3-4 hours a day. For the final two weeks I took the practice exams and went over my mistakes. I probably studied for about 4-5 hours a day during this time.

For the second exam I studied from early Aug (the time I got my scores back) to early September. I studied approximately 5-6 hours a day during the first 2 weeks and about 7-8 hours during the next two weeks. I also took the practice exams while I was doing the content review in order to make the most out of my time.

landerman · Oct 12, 2009

Your individual scores and composite score
22L June 18 2009
30M Sep 10 2009

What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
All Examkrackers but got frustrated with EK 101 verbal.

Kaplan in class as well as online course materials. All of the quizs and lessons.

College textbooks for all subjects when needed

Which practice tests did you use?
All AAMC, Kaplan 1-9, most of the EK 30 min exams. Alot of kaplan materials online.

What was your undergraduate major?
Biology

Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Study!!! Every question you get wrong you should spend time going over why it was wrong and i know its hard but dont get frustrated by worng answers rather use the explanations for the questions to help you learn the topic better.

How long did you study for the MCAT?
I started studying for the MCAt in the summer of my sophomore year and studied throughout my junior year while taking a full time course load. I then took the MCAT after scoring on high 20's on practice tests (AAMC and Kaplan included). I was very upset with my low score of 22! but i continued on even after looking into Caribbean schools and studied all the material all over again and eventually too the 9/12 exam and scored a 30 and increase of 8 points! All i can say is that hard work actually paid off and if you put the right amount of effort in you will definitely succeed.

Westwood · Oct 12, 2009

Your individual scores and composite score
P-12, V-11, B-12, WS- M...35M! Sep 4th, 2009

What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

I only used Examkrackers, including 1001 questions and verbal 101

Which practice tests did you use?

AAMC 3 P6,V11, B8 - 25
AAMC 7 P11, V11, B9 - 31
AAMC 9 P11, V11, B11 - 33
AAMC 10 P12, V11, B10 - 33

and the free ones from all the prep companies

What was your undergraduate major?

Kinesiology both cGPA and sGPA around 3.93, I took the MCAT after my 2nd year. It's interesting to note that I have taken no English courses (evident in my writing score), no organic chem, only one semester of gen chem, and only one semester of physics.

Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Stay active while studying. If I hadn't gone to the gym for an hour every day I studied i would have gone crazy.

How long did you study for the MCAT?
Throughout the whole summer I left an MCAT book in my bathroom for some bathroom reading. At the end of the summer I studied for 5-6 hours a day for 3 weeks.

I felt like CRAP coming out of the exam, and was predicting P 8-9, V 11-12, and B 8-9, so I don't think you can place a lot of weight on how you feel coming out.

Good luck, I hope this post helps people as the many before this have helped me

Slack3r · Oct 12, 2009

Your individual scores and composite score
31S - 12 BS, 12 VR, 7 PS

What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

Biological Sciences: TPR Hyperlearning. Re-read the whole bio section and went through all the individual problems. When doing problems/practice tests, I would look for trends on the types of topics I was missing and would go back and further review those sections. I took abridged notes of the entire bio content review, nothing major (maybe 3-5 pages for the whole section), just writing down little reminders of things I usually miss.

Physical Sciences: TPR Hyperlearning and EK Chem 1001. Easily my worst section, my physics lectures in undergrad were very scant with the content and "broad picture" and focused more on plug n' chug problems. I ended up focusing my studies on mostly the math side and neglected content. (DO NOT do this) It shows; my whole PS section was content based basically, very little math. I found the EK book to not be very helpful and just stuck to doing problems from the Hyperlearning books. I'd recommend focusing your studies on learning the material and broad concepts over stressing the formulas. Most of the math is intuitive once you understand why you're doing it anyway.

Verbal: I didn't practice this section beyond doing practice tests. Don't try and learn someone else's strategy (i.e. TPR), they're mostly BS anyway. Figure out what works best for you. Verbal, I feel, you either know or you don't.

Writing: Also didn't practice this. I don't really see how you can.

Which practice tests did you use?

Started using the TPR tests, but they seemed pretty useless and not at all like the real thing. Ended up switching to the AAMC ones and did all 9.

What was your undergraduate major?

Physiology/Anatomy

Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Don't overwork yourself and be sure to maximize your time. People say they study for 8 hours/day spend a majority of that wasted. 2-3 hours of intense, uninterrupted studying is much more effective than half-assing it for 8 hours and burning yourself out. Lock yourself in a room for 2-3 hours and focus on content review and mastering the material. Formulate connections between similar material in your head and think about potential relationships and questions that might be asked; the MCAT is all about synergy between concepts. Try and target concepts you're consistently missing while doing practice problems; there's no way to know everything but you can help to eliminate as many weak areas as possible. Stay focused, but don't be afraid to take a night off. You're your own worst enemy on this test, don't let it psyche you out.

How long did you study for the MCAT?

About 3 weeks, 2-4 hours/day with a night or two off per week. By the last few days I was doing only practice tests.

trackcutie25 · Oct 14, 2009

Your individual scores and composite score

36Q - 12 BS, 11 VR, 13 PS

What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

PS: I started out using EK and the PS 1001 books, but in the end broke down and bought TBR for both Physics and Chem. I have not yet taken Physics 2 and hadnt taken Gen Chem in 6years, so I needed some extra help and the passages in TBR helped me learn to incorporate what I better.

BS: I used EK and only the Orgo 1001 book.

Verbal: EK and the 101 passages book although I didn't complete them all. This was my best section and I didn't focus much on it. Probably why its my lowest score, even though it was my best in every practice exam.

Writing: I did not study at all, just made sure to answer all the prompts during the test.

Which practice tests did you use?

I used the AAMC exams (3,4,5,7,8,10). I skipped some randomly just in case I had to retake.

What was your undergraduate major?

Economics....hated it

Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Remember that this is a critical thinking test! Yes there are some discretes and you do need background knowledge, but all the detailed knowledge is only going to get you maybe 2-3 more questions right. Focus on knowing all the basics and how they can all interelate to each other. Thats why I particularly liked EK.

Depending on how long its been since you studied will depend on how much time you need to review. I hadn't had any science stuff in 3+ years, so I devoted about three months. When you feel you need a break, take a break. I took a 2-3 week break because I was getting severely discourged and came back better than ever.

I cannot emphasize enough taking practice tests! Nothing will compare to working through these. The test is a reasoning test more than a knowledge, ESPECIALLY BS. Most of the answers you need are right there in the passage, use your common sense!

How long did you study for the MCAT?

I studied the whole summer, but ebbed and waned on intensity. I followed the EK study schedule But I finished it with a month left to do my own review. I put in 3-4 hours/day sometimes skipping and having to catch up to stay on schedule in the first month. Moved to 6-7 hrs/day including weekend for 3 weeks...burned out. Took 2 weeks off, went back to studying 6 hrs, until the week before. Then goofed off.

raab32 · Oct 19, 2009

Your individual scores and composite score
34S - 11 PS, 10 V, 13 BS

What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

Content Review for BS and PS

During content review for BS and PS, I mainly used Examkrackers review notes. Overall, I found these to be well-suited for me as they provided very concise conceptual reviews. Their review books had a helpful set of discrete questions at the end of each section that helped me begin to hone my critical thinking skills. These books also have 30 minute exams which are written in an MCAT-like format. Admittedly, I only did a few of these but they are definitely good review questions and are worth your time.
For the conceptual material that I had some trouble with (for example, electromagnetism and optics), I consulted my physics textbook. This helped me a lot because I realized the material was definitely a lot easier the second time around. If you are having problems with the basic concepts of a topic, do yourself a favor and grab a textbook. (Note: I've also heard that TBR has great conceptual review for physics and chemistry topics, so this might be a good avenue to go down as well... I can't speak for it because I didn't use TBR.)
I also used EK Audio Osmosis to reinforce material during my commutes to and from work. Really, really helpful for reinforcing things you review. Rewind and play back as much you need to.

Verbal

For verbal, make sure you don't use Kaplan's strategy. This has been discussed many times on the forums and I'm sure you can find a lot of information about it, but the very basic idea is that they essentially feed you an entirely unnecessary strategy. I used Examkrackers' verbal "strategy", which is not so much a strategy as it is an intuitive approach to the verbal section. With that said, I am a bit disappointed with my verbal performance (10 on the section) because I was averaging ~11-12 on my verbal sections. But I found EK's strategy was by and large the best approach if you need some help with the section.

Practice Questions during Content Review

In terms of practice questions, I used EK 1001 Chem and EK 1001 Physics to help master the material. I also used a bit of EK 1001 Bio, which actually functioned as a sort of content review because it helped reinforce many concepts. I also went through some of Kaplan's Sectional Tests. I found Kaplan to be more numbers-based, but this helped me understand the application of many concepts. These sectionals were a bit challenging, but definitely helped me transition from content review to practice tests.

Writing Section

Lastly, for the essays, I simply followed a three paragraph strategy that a friend of mine told me about. I think this might be a Kaplan thing. But I literally went over this two days before the MCAT... just make coherent points and you should be fine.

Which practice tests did you use?

Started off with a couple of Kaplan exams that my friend let me use and then switched to the AAMCs. Did all of them except for one. They were pretty good in terms of what question types to expect on the actual MCAT. My average on these exams was ~37-38, so I didn't perform as well as I was expecting to... again this is probably because of verbal.

What was your undergraduate major?

Biology with a concentration in neuroscience

Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Don't be intimidated! I was very nervous about the exam as I started my content review. This is understandable because it's daunting to review all of your pre-med classes. But the test is definitely more focused on how well you know the concepts and how well you can manipulate them in your head. Keep this in mind as you study. If you're getting bogged down by details that seem trivial, they probably are.

Very important: as you study, always ask why. Keep the big picture in mind. Why is the pH going down in a given system? Why are enzymatic processes being negatively affected in the framework of a given inhibitor? You need to approach the material with intellectual curiosity because this is overwhelmingly what is tested on the exam. I reviewed content and would find myself hopping around wikipedia learning more and more and developing a good sense of the big picture.

Be able to look at the science material from a bird's eye view and recognize the vast interconnections of everything. It becomes less of an exam being studied for and more of a mind-blowing intellectual tour de force.

How long did you study for the MCAT?

My exam was on 9/12/09. Started content review around the end of June/beginning of July while working full-time in a neuroscience lab. Probably the best job to have while studying for the MCAT because of multiple hour incubation times. Perfect for getting in some review during the day. Started practice exams during mid-August and did those up until a couple days before the exam.

If you have any more questions, shoot me a PM - I'd be glad to help you out.

caseofthemndays · Oct 27, 2009

1) Your individual scores and composite score
first time PS9 VR10 BS10 WSO =29O
2nd time PS11 VR12 BS11 WSM =34M

2) The study method used for each section
Kaplan books, EK for verbal

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
Examcrackers for verbal. Tried sticking to the Kaplan method the first time around, and it just wasn't my style. If you feel you need to look back in the passage to find something, do it. Writing the "theme" of the passage was completely useless for me. Brought my score up two points, honestly, by abandoning the kaplan method and just doing what felt right. Kaplan was good for sciences. Completely neglected the writing sample the second time around (it shows 👎)

4) Which practice tests did you use?
AAMC only. I think I made it through 3-10

5) What was your undergraduate major?
MCD Bio.

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?
practice practice practice. Go over your mistakes on practice exams. And bring snacks to the test. I'm really bad about forgetting to eat, especially breakfast. But it's really important on test day.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
Planned on studying for 6 months, but really only got around to it the last 4 weeks.

Crazy CAT · Oct 28, 2009

AggieSean said:
) Your individual scores and composite score

MCAT: 11PS 11VR 11BS P (33P)

2) The study method used for each section

PS: Being a physics major helped tremendously. For anyone who can, take a class in optics, it'll help a lot, and will help develop the kind of problem solving skills necessary for the MCAT. As far as study materials:
1. Kaplan's material review was great, but their practice materials (the online quizzes, full-lengths, subject tests) sucked. I didn't like them at all and thought they were way too involved.
2. For practice problems, I had hand-me-down Princeton Review stuff, and used their science workbook. For me, my weakpoints were fluid mechanics, electrochemistry, and acids/bases. So I would study all the material in the Kaplan books, and then do ALL of the passages in Princeton's book.
3. The week before the MCAT, I never really had time to sit down and take more full lengths, so I took 5 AAMC old PS sections (Kaplan gave us access to ALL AAMC practice tests as part of our course) just to get a feel for what the real thing would be like.

VR: Honestly, didn't study a whole lot for this. I had EK101, Kaplan's workbook, and TPR's workbook, but didn't use them too much. I maybe did 7 passages from EK, and 30 passages out of the TPR book (Kaplan's verbal stuff is kinda worthless, in my opinion). Verbal has always been a strong point for me (740 Verbal SAT), so I devoted more time to....

BS: Eek! My weakest section. I had AP credit for Bio 101 and 102, and the only other bio. classes I took were a year of physiology and organic chemistry. Needless to say, I had to hit this one hard. I read and took notes on every chapter in the Kaplan book, used all of the Kaplan flashcards, read and took notes on many of the Kaplan chapters AGAIN, did practice EK bio passages and for my weakest areas (Micro, Molec. Bio, Biochem, and some Organic stuff), I read the TPR review books and took notes. By the way, for each chapter I read and took notes on, I pasted helpful pictures into the 5-subject notebook where I was taking notes. It helped a lot just to be able to flip through it when I needed a visual aid (I'm a very visual person).
So, as far as practice passages, again I pretty much didn't do any Kaplan stuff, and I did just about EVERY biology and organic chemistry passage and standalone question in the TPR science workbook. And again, the week before the MCAT, I did AMCAS BS sections. I made an 8 on the first one (which wigged me out, seeing as it was the thursday before the test and had been making 12-13), but settled down and things got better.

WS: Didn't even study. All I knew is that if I did exactly what the prompt told me, I'd get a P. And that's just fine with me.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

PS: TPR, AAMC
VR: TPR, EK, AAMC
BS: TPR, EK, AAMC
WS: None

4) Which practice tests did you use?

Kaplan and AAMC

5) What was your undergraduate major?

Physics with a math minor

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Kaplan full lengths are good indicators of how you'll score on the real deal (you are scored according to how everyone else does, just like the real thing), but AAMC tests are probably more indicative of the kind of content and weirdness (haha) you'll see on the MCAT.

Also, this is very important, if you take away anything from this post, get this:

When/if you walk out on test day feeling like you just got owned, DON'T WORRY ABOUT IT, I walked out feeling like I'd made a 20. Believe me, ignore the voices and just relax (easier said than done, I know). It is completely normal to leave the center feeling like you'll never get into med. school with the score you'll probably get. I dealt with this doubt for over a month and it really screwed me up. Don't let post-test shock take you over like I did, it seriously affected me. I'm not exaggerating or being over-dramatic. Just CHILL when you're done, and trust in your preparation (if you've been serious).

Also, there is a sweet median to hitting it hard on your weaknesses and playing to your strengths. For me, my strengths were Verbal and Physical, but my weakness was Bio, so for example, if it came between taking another hour to do physics problems or organic reactions, I went with organic. It isn't always easy because doing the things you're good at is a great confidence booster, but it can also impart a false sense of security. However, I knew also that a great score on physical sciences was definitely possible b/c it's graded easier and because of my background, so every now and then I'd be hardcore with physics and chemistry to do whatever I could to push the range of what I could possibly score. It didn't quite pan out for me like that on test day, but that's fine. I'm completely happy with my score and wouldn't retake for the world.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?

3 months. Also, don't take 7 classes the same semester of your MCAT. Not cool. Not cool at all. If I had to do it over again, I would have taken a minimal load and been extra hardcore about everything. But that's okay. Honestly, I had been scoring 34-35 range on my practice tests, but I'm not gonna complain about my score, ESPECIALLY after the April 7th MCAT Nightmare.

thank you!
your post helps me a lot
i am also physics major with a math minor but with strong biology but super weak verbal!!!
i started cracking up the practice tests and man, they are way a lot easier than our major classes! 🙂

lindsayb · Nov 6, 2009

Before I say anything, I want to address a very important issue in taking the MCAT: having confidence in yourself and not comparing yourself to ANYONE ELSE. We are our own worst critics, and it is easy for the evil MCAT to steal your confidence. It's hard. It's meant to try to make you feel like a *****, but DON'T LET IT. You need to keep your head up. You have taken these classes, you have your head on straight, and you can do this. Don't scroll down this entire page and think that you are ****ed because 'everyone else' is getting 35+. The select few on this board are posting probably because they got a good score and are wanting to brag. Don't let their complexes make you feel like you are an idiot. My diagnostic score was a 17 foraplan class. You can raise your score. You can get into med school. If you get above a 30, have a pretty good GPA, do volunteer work or work hard in general, and get a solid, 30ish MCAT score you can get in. A premed advisor once told one of my friends, who had gotten a 30O on her MCAT and had a 3.3 GPA that she had no chance of getting into medical school and should find another career. Right now she is at CU Medical School, one of the best schools in the country for family medicine. So just remember, if you believe in yourself, what you are doing, who you are, and where you will go, you will be fine. JUST BREATHE.

1) Your individual scores and composite score
10, 10, 10, 30P

2) The study method used for each section
Kaplan class & online resources

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
Kaplan class & online study resources

4) Which practice tests did you use?
Kaplan 1-8, 2 AMMC tests

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Physiology

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Discipline yourself. Make a study schedule. Get a timer. Set it for the couple hours you are studying, and stop it for bathroom breaks.

Don't let the bastard get you down.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
2.5 months

BennieBlanco · Nov 6, 2009

lindsayb said:
Before I say anything, I want to address a very important issue in taking the MCAT: having confidence in yourself and not comparing yourself to ANYONE ELSE. We are our own worst critics, and it is easy for the evil MCAT to steal your confidence. It's hard. It's meant to try to make you feel like a *****, but DON'T LET IT. You need to keep your head up. You have taken these classes, you have your head on straight, and you can do this. Don't scroll down this entire page and think that you are ****ed because 'everyone else' is getting 35+. The select few on this board are posting probably because they got a good score and are wanting to brag. Don't let their complexes make you feel like you are an idiot. My diagnostic score was a 17 foraplan class. You can raise your score. You can get into med school. If you get above a 30, have a pretty good GPA, do volunteer work or work hard in general, and get a solid, 30ish MCAT score you can get in. A premed advisor once told one of my friends, who had gotten a 30O on her MCAT and had a 3.3 GPA that she had no chance of getting into medical school and should find another career. Right now she is at CU Medical School, one of the best schools in the country for family medicine. So just remember, if you believe in yourself, what you are doing, who you are, and where you will go, you will be fine. JUST BREATHE.

1) Your individual scores and composite score
10, 10, 10, 30P

2) The study method used for each section
Kaplan class & online resources

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
Kaplan class & online study resources

4) Which practice tests did you use?
Kaplan 1-8, 2 AMMC tests

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Physiology

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Discipline yourself. Make a study schedule. Get a timer. Set it for the couple hours you are studying, and stop it for bathroom breaks.

Don't let the bastard get you down.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
2.5 months

or maybe the "select few" are trying to help others.

JonSwan · Nov 9, 2009

1) Your individual scores and composite score
PS = 12
BS = 13
VR = 12
W = R
Composite: 37R

2) The study method used for each section
a. Study EK material starting with worst subject (physics for me) and
moving to easiest (bio for me). After completing EK book for a
given subject, do several questions for each section of 1001
Questions. If questions seem easy, move on - if they are difficult,
do some more and review section in EK.
b. Listen to Audio Osmosis in free time
c. Write several practice essays
d. After finishing all EK books, take non-AAMC practice tests. Note
weak areas on test and review EK accordingly. Next, take AAMC
practice tests. Touch up on weak areas.
e. Skim all materials in the week before test. Stop and read if you see
something that you don't remember well.
f. Breathe, relax, dive in and take the test.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
PS: ExamKrackers, Audio Osmosis and EK 1001 Questions
BS: ExamKrackers, Audio Osmosis, Kaplan Organic Chemistry Edge and EK 1001 Questions
VR: 1001 Questions
W: ExamKrackers, practice essays (good to help get your timing down)

4) Which practice tests did you use?
2 Kaplan tests (ignore the score), EK (ignore the score), PR (ignore the score), all AAMC tests (THE single most valuable investment I made for MCAT prep - these are an absolute necessity!)

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Biology and Psychology

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?
Repetition is key. The more you see the material, the more it will soak in. I had several "A-ha!" moments after the 3rd or even 4th time through the material when I "got it".

Also, take the MCAT seriously, but not too seriously. Work up some confidence in yourself and take control of the process. Don't let the MCAT control you or it will take a dump on your soul.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
January - April: 1 hour/weekday, 2-3 hours/weekend-day
May: 8 hours (give or take)/day
Tested at end of May

FishHungry · Nov 13, 2009

1) Your individual scores and composite score

PS: 14, VR: 13, BS: 13 40S

2) The study method used for each section

Altius Test Prep tutoring/classroom course (only available in Utah; but they have some good resources on their website to help those doing self study from somewhere else). They gave us 20 tutoring sessions plus a ton of classroom sessions, I don't remember how many. I basically did everything they asked, went to every class and session, etc.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

Just the Altius materials and the AAMC tests Altius gives you. I did buy the EK 101 book, but after takiing a few I thought they were poorly written, so I stuck to Altius' stuff.

4) Which practice tests did you use?

Altius/AAMC only

5) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

If you are going to take a course, do a lot of research. Talk to students of your same aptitude/background who took that course. Be skeptical. It's just my opinion, but I think most courses aren't worth much and you can do better studyign on your own. I did take Altius because they are actually significanlty different than kaplan, PR or EK. Mainly due to the private tutoring you get and the fact that they have replaced the classroom lectures with live practice sessions where you are taking and reviewing real MCAT questions.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?

About 6 months. That's another great thing about Altius, you can study with them for as long as you want for the same price. I was originally going to only study for about 3 months and take an early April exam. On my tutors advice I decided to study almost double that time and took the exam at the end of June.

IndianVercetti · Nov 14, 2009

FishHungry said:
1) Your individual scores and composite score

PS: 14, VR: 13, BS: 13 40S

2) The study method used for each section

Altius Test Prep tutoring/classroom course (only available in Utah; but they have some good resources on their website to help those doing self study from somewhere else). They gave us 20 tutoring sessions plus a ton of classroom sessions, I don't remember how many. I basically did everything they asked, went to every class and session, etc.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

Just the Altius materials and the AAMC tests Altius gives you. I did buy the EK 101 book, but after takiing a few I thought they were poorly written, so I stuck to Altius' stuff.

4) Which practice tests did you use?

Altius/AAMC only

5) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

If you are going to take a course, do a lot of research. Talk to students of your same aptitude/background who took that course. Be skeptical. It's just my opinion, but I think most courses aren't worth much and you can do better studyign on your own. I did take Altius because they are actually significanlty different than kaplan, PR or EK. Mainly due to the private tutoring you get and the fact that they have replaced the classroom lectures with live practice sessions where you are taking and reviewing real MCAT questions.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?

About 6 months. That's another great thing about Altius, you can study with them for as long as you want for the same price. I was originally going to only study for about 3 months and take an early April exam. On my tutors advice I decided to study almost double that time and took the exam at the end of June.

😕😕😕

unDRdog · Nov 14, 2009

IndianVercetti said:
😕😕😕

My thoughts exactly

muhali3 · Nov 14, 2009

IndianVercetti said:
😕😕😕

http://altiustestprep.com/default.aspx

gnomeski · Nov 30, 2009

wrathofgod64 said:
7) How long did you study for the MCAT?

The first time I took the test, I studied for a summer, 3 months and about 5 hours a day. I was also taking a physics class at the time. I did the Kaplan course, and a little EK on the side, and ended up with a good score, 34T, but it wasn't what i wanted. The second time around, I studied hardcore for 1.5 months, doing nothing but TPR Hyperlearning content review and the Science workbook, as well as redoing all the Kaplan and AAMC practice tests. This time, I probably studied for about 10 hours a day. If you have time, one thing I highly recommend is not doing content review just once, but twice, and maybe 3 times. The first time, you may absorb 50% of the material. The second time, 75%. The third time, 90%. What also made the difference was that I had no other commitments (no jobs, classes) and devoted all my time to pure MCAT studying. ALSO, MAKE A LOG OF YOUR ERRORS ON PRACTICE TESTS. GO OVER EVERY SINGLE ****ING QUESTION YOU ANSWERED, YOU LEARN SO MUCH THAT WAY. It's tempting to just go over the wrong answers, but ****, I'm sure you guessed on some and got right. Also, Also, Also, practice timed passages! For my TPR Hyperlearning, I gave myself 8 min/passage. Finally, ASSUME ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING CAN BE TESTED ON THE MCAT. I DONT GIVE A **** IF THE AAMC SAID THEY'RE NOT TESTING ON ALKENES AND BENZENES AFTER 2003, KNOW THAT ****. There will be a passage on it, and you'll be glad you perused that last chapter in TPR Orgo rather than read the 1000000th thread on physician misery in preallo. Peace.

love the passion

purple pearl · Dec 19, 2009

1) Your individual scores and composite score
P11 V8 B14 W-N = 33N

2) The study method used for each section
physical- read everything (TPR, EK) a couple times! and did lots of practice questions but limited it to just a few hours a day- THATS ALL I COULD TAKE.
verbal- ALL the practice i could get! and read online articles that came with TPR
bio- not much actually! i just tried to focus on remembering stuff in classes-physio, biochem, genetics, micro... read over TPR, EK

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
TPR all the way! + all their practice tests/wrkbook
ALSO-1001 EK for physics/chem/verbal
Kaplan practice verbal sections (didnt help...)
gold standard mcat just to look through
AAMC tests too

4) Which practice tests did you use?
AAMC + TPR!

5) What was your undergraduate major?
biological sciences

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?
when you take a prep class, take it seriously. i recommend TPR becz all their teachers are amazing/give great personal advice and help outside of class. the test is also alot of luck/ how well you perform under stress.. so relax and don't bother envying people who do really well- you can and will too!

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
Honestly - about a year... I have no idea how people do it in a couple months ;/ if a few months doesn't work for you, take an break and keep at it and retake it. its okay to work at a slower pace and try again!

skyblue2000 · Dec 19, 2009

Someone posted an attachment titled "examsched.xlsx", however, I am trying to find the post corresponding to that attachment and gone past these 13 pages twice, but I still can't find it.

Does anyone by chance know? Or know of a way for me to search for attachment title?

Thank you.

IndianVercetti · Dec 19, 2009

skyblue2000 said:
Someone posted an attachment titled "examsched.xlsx", however, I am trying to find the post corresponding to that attachment and gone past these 13 pages twice, but I still can't find it.

Does anyone by chance know? Or know of a way for me to search for attachment title?

Thank you.

edit: nvm, misread what you said.

s1lver · Dec 23, 2009

skyblue2000 said:
Someone posted an attachment titled "examsched.xlsx", however, I am trying to find the post corresponding to that attachment and gone past these 13 pages twice, but I still can't find it.

Does anyone by chance know? Or know of a way for me to search for attachment title?

Thank you.

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showpost.php?p=5914751&postcount=2 (PM him if he has any updated version)

jl lin · Dec 25, 2009

Critical Mass said:
I should also throw in that I was taking it several years removed from my undergrad classes in organic chemistry and physics. I probably would have done better if the material was fresher in my mind. I have always sucked at verbal, but practicing with EK in the month before the exam helped me out.

Most on SDN would say that 32R isn't that wonderful anyhow, and truth be told, I knew that it was really only good enough for my state school. Most prep course instructors in my area barely cracked a 30 themselves.

My .02--the MCAT science tests are mostly passage-based, and they test your understanding and ability to apply what you know more than rote memory (unlike med school in my experience). As such, the prep courses and so forth will not take you from a 6 to a 10 (more like 6 to 8, still usually too low for admission).

Your best preparation it to treat your prerequisite courses like you are actually in med school (i.e. as if the people sitting on your left and right will be getting high A's on the exams). If you master the material when you actually learn it, you won't need to study for the MCAT.

This is a very helpful post. Thank you. Makes tons of sense.

matlabsux · Dec 29, 2009

1)Your individual scores and composite score

36Q: PS 13, VR 10, BS 13

2) The study method used for each section

PS - I used the Kaplan review notes and their online library of materials – I went through every topical test, section test, full length test and available AAMC test. The only part of their library I did not do was the subject tests.
BS - Same as above. If you can get through all of the material Kaplan has, you will do well.
VR – VR was always my strong suit and I was a voracious reader growing up so I did not study much, that's probably why my score stayed at a 10. For VR, you have to practice lots of passages. I recommend Examcrackers VR 101 book to supplement the lackluster Kaplan VR book.

WS – I memorized the Kaplan strategy, did a few practice essays (5) then stopped. This section is worthless compared to the others. As soon as you get a handle on it, move on.
2)What materials you used for each section (Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

Kaplan for PS, WS and BS. Kaplan & Examcrackers for VR.

4) Which practice tests did you use?

Kaplan 1-11 (26-37)
AAMC 3-10 (32, 34, 35, 36, 34, 35, 36, 37) I only did the AAMC tests after finishing all of the Kaplan Full Lengths.

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Electrical Engineering, Chemistry (minor)

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

I found that taking practice tests - particularly the AAMC practice tests - was the best way to predict your score. Save the AAMC tests for last. The first thing you should go through is all of the relevant science info. I gave myself a month to go through all of the Kaplan review notes (I had completed all of the pre-reqs years before). Next I moved on through the Kaplan library starting from the small topical tests (MCAT style tests organized by science topic) then I moved onto section tests and then full length tests.

The key to doing well on the MCAT is being familiar with the test itself. Most pre-meds know the science but fail to grasp how the MCAT will test that science. Once you've mastered the content, move on to the practice tests so that you get used to applying that science knowledge to the unfamiliar situations presented on the exam.

While taking the practice tests, learn to pace yourself. I can't stress this enough. Try to move through each section quickly, marking the toughest passages. Triage as you go along, assigning each passage a level from 1-3. Level 3's you skip until the end of the exam. Don't waste time on them the first time around. Then, if you've moved properly you'll have just the toughest passages (the ones you score the poorest on usually) left at the end of the exam where they can do the least amount of damage to your score. The more you practice the better an idea you'll get about what are your own personal level 1, 2 or 3 passages. In the sciences this may just mean comfort level/experience with the science topics. In verbal it is much more difficult to put a label on the passages so be sure to do lots of VR practice. Remember, when you're practicing VR you are doing pure, unfiltered critical thinking so in reality you are practicing all 3 sections of the MCAT.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?

I studied for the MCAT for 3 months. Class 2 nights a week and studied about 8 hours a day, 5-6 days a week. Treat your MCAT prep like a full time job for a lousy 3 months, and you will have no regrets.

Ahsan · Dec 30, 2009

🙁 AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!! SOOO MUCH ADVICE! spending too much time on seeing what other people did n not focusing on what i should do! DUDE! 44S is unbelievable! GENIUS BEAST WE HAVE HERE!!

aznguyen316 · Jan 5, 2010

Ahsan said:
🙁 AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!! SOOO MUCH ADVICE! spending too much time on seeing what other people did n not focusing on what i should do! DUDE! 44S is unbelievable! GENIUS BEAST WE HAVE HERE!!

PRamos · Jan 17, 2010

capn jazz said:
1) Your individual scores and composite score
35R
PS: 11
VR: 11
BS: 13

For extra material I bought the TBR class materials - the in class passages are AMAZING and the FLs on paper are incredible sources of practice. I would have taken a TBR class in a heartbeat if I were in CA.

How did you get these? I have been trying to find someone willing to part with them, but no luck. I could kick myself for throwing mine away (I moved a few years ago and dumped so many thing I regret not keeping). Without a doubt they were the best thing I used by far, and I looked at everything. The last three weeks I want to do nothing but the BR review exams and review sessions.

MDminded · Jan 23, 2010

SilentNight said:
1) Your individual scores and composite score
11BS 11PS 9VR = 31R

2) The study method used for each section

BS: Pretty straightforward, understand concepts and don't just memorize. Thinking about the body as a whole instead of separating the body into organ systems.

PS: I guess same as BS. Spend time knowing the equations and how it is related to the concepts. Be able to calculate quickly. Think about real world examples would be helpful.

VR: My most difficult section. Thought I would get a 7-8. Not too sure how to study except practice and review the answers and the logic behind it. Try to stay focused! I didn't do that...during my actual test my mind drifted away halfway during each passage I read...

WS: Didn't do much except during practice tests. Just make sure you answer the different parts of the prompt. Also have a good arsenal of examples to give for your counter-example, pretty easy if you read or watch current events.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

Examkrackers complete study set along with their 1001Q books except I used NOVA Physics for practice problems for PS, felt it made me understand physics much better than my college professor 🙂 Definitely get the 101 VR!

4) Which practice tests did you use?

Kaplan Diagnostic = 23
AAMC 3 = 26
AAMC 7 = 28
AAMC 8 = 25

5) What was your undergraduate major?

Exercise Biology with a minor in Nutrition Science

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Don't cram your studying time unless you already have a great background knowledge on the sciences! I gave myself a month to study and out of that only 2 weeks were devoted to the MCAT (6-10 hrs/day) and then the last 2 weeks I went brain dead (also everyone had their winter break...having fun...🙁) Try to give yourself at least 3 months so the information can really sink in.

My practice MCAT scores were no where above 30 and so it was quite fortunate I received a 31. Then again when a real exam occurs I really go into my focused mind set.

***Most important advice I would give is try to get some sleep and relax during the process. Sleep helps to retain the vast amount of information and relaxing...well I think you would go crazy if you didn't...😛***

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?

As mentioned above...basically 2 weeks...

Wish I could pull off this feat...

assturtle · Feb 2, 2010

1) Your individual scores and composite score
15-14-14-R

2) The study method used for each section
EK + EK 101 / 1001 Books
EK Audio Osmosis
Few BR books

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

All Examkrackers, BR

4) Which practice tests did you use?

AAMC FLs

5) What was your undergraduate major?

Biology

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Study. I mean really study. several of my friends just read books and answered problems, and wound up scoring in the upper 20s, low 30s. I really read, wrote down things I didn't understand and googled things I couldn't figure out. I made sure I knew why thing were happening, visualized them, etc. Recall for the MCAT was so much easier for me having done this.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?

About two month, ~3-5 hours a day, 5-6 days a week.

Auriga · Feb 13, 2010

*** READ MY BLOG ADVICE ***

1) Your individual scores and composite score
PS= 12 VR= 13 WS= S BS= 13 Composite= 38S

2) The study method used for each section
PS/BS: EK's 10-week schedule, condensed into 8 weeks.
VR/WS: same.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
EK Complete Study Package
EK Audio Osmosis
EK 1001 books
I also threw in MCAT in a box flashcards, The Gold Standard flash cards, and a "trig for dummies" book b/c I took calc over 10 yrs ago. 😳 I also re-read my condensed OChem notes from last year. It helps to reinforce the same mental pathways I used when I learned it the first time. Even better if you re-write it, further condensing it and reprocessing it. This is sound advice from my PhD adviser who has spent 55 years studying the mechanism of memory. Not worth it to rewrite my OChem notes, but for the notes I took when going through the EK CR, I re-read them, but I wish I had given myself enough time to re-write/reprocess them. It's all in the past now, though! 😀

4) Which practice tests did you use?
AAMCs:
prelim EK test: 24
#3: 25 total: 7 PS, 11 VR, 7 BS.
#8: 29 total: 8 PS, 11 VR, 10 BS.
#9: 32 total: 11 PS, 10 VR, 11 BS.
#10: 31 total: 9 PS, 10 VR, 12 BS.
#6: 35 total: 11 PS, 11 VR, 13 BS.

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Biology - not just because pre-med, I really loved it. I'd have taught high school bio if I didn't fall in love with health care.

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?
I wrote up a huge list of advice here: http://forums.studentdoctor.net/blog.php?b=3269 I really hope you find it useful!!

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
2 months, averaging 6-8 hours/day (I worked 12-hr shifts luckily, so I had more days free). I didn't really get serious until I was done with classes in May. (July 2 exam). Wish I'd done more over Christmas break. Less of a time crunch in the fall!!! >_<

Omrianh · Feb 21, 2010

1) Your individual scores and composite score

33N: 12 BS 9 VR 12 PS N WS

2) The study method used for each section

Essentially, I took notes on all the EK books that came in the complete package, and did the questions thoroughly. As so many other people have said on this forum, it's quite important to take the time to understand why and how the test makers made each question and answer. After exhausting the EK books, I found my understanding in PS inadequate (read my PS scores were below 10 on average), so I bought the BR PS books and went through them.

The final two weeks of review, I took one AAMC exam every other day with the break days spent reviewing the recently taken practice exam. Taking the AAMC practice exams, thoroughly going over the problems, and then making sure you understand the material you got wrong was the key to getting my score a 30+. I attribute much of my success in a relatively short amount of studying time due to the focus I gave to those practice exams.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

BS: used EK bio and Orgo. I also took Orgo and Human ANP the same year I took the MCAT.

PS: used EK gen chem and phys but then quickly switch to BR GC and Phys.

VR: used EK 101 VR. (I was unable to raise my VR score using EK 101. If I had to retake, I would try using BR verbal)

WS: listened to the Rocky soundtrack and did calisthenics.

4) Which practice tests did you use?

Kaplan: the one that comes with the huge Kaplan blue comprehensive book
EK: the one that comes with the complete package
AAMC 3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10

5) What was your undergraduate major?

Biology with a Music minor

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Time management and focus will get you through this. Go through every topic at least once linearly before you go back and work up your weaknesses.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?

Due to schoool contraints, I spent 2 months studying about 2 hours a day, then 2.5 weeks before the exam, did 5 - 10 hour days. I do NOT recommend anyone cram like this as I felt horribly burnt out days before the exam and the 2 weeks after it. Planning and time management are key to doing well on the MCAT without crying in your sleep.

If I had to do this again, I would have definitely tried to devote more weeks to exclusive MCAT studying. Studying while doing school is a big pain and should be avoided. In my opinion, A junior applying their junior year can take the MCAT on June 30, and it would allow a decent amount of time to study (assuming no jobs or other obligations) without scores being too late in the application cycle. Ideally, three months is great, but can only be done feasibly if a junior take the MCAT summer of Junior year and applies the next year.

CaptainSSO · Feb 21, 2010

The select few on this board are posting probably because they got a good score and are wanting to brag.

Or more likely you're just upset that you're not one of them.

erskine · Feb 23, 2010

i hope i can post in this thread in a weeks time.

surftheiop · Feb 24, 2010

erskine777 said:
i hope i can post in this thread in a weeks time.

Me too 😀

Besides the obviously good feeling I would get due to the fact I scored well, I feel like I studied with a more efficient system than alot of people use so I think it could definitely benefit some people to read about it

tdurden · Mar 2, 2010

i never ever thought i'd be posting here, and my scores aren't THAT good anyway, so i'll keep it short & sweet

1) Your individual scores and composite score
PS=10 VR=11 BS=11 Composite=32R

2) The study method used for each section
PS&BS: Read the texts, do the example problems, and then PRACTICE
VR: Nothing. Winged it.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
ExamKrackers all the way.

4) Which practice tests did you use?
AAMC FL 3-10.

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Biology

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?
Practice, practice, practice. Do problems & FL's as the majority of your studying.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
3 weeks over winter break, ~10+ hrs/day

erskine · Mar 2, 2010

I can finally post here 🙂

1) Your individual scores and composite score
PS=13 VR=11 BS=15 Composite=39P

2) The study method used for each section
Attempted to follow SN2ed's 3 mo schedule but this was compacted into ~8 weeks of content review plus lots of BR passages and then ~2 weeks of FLs and practice passages due to poor planning on my part (IE vegas trip + food poisoning=little mcat studying). I had also borrowed some Kaplan material from my library the month before, which I just browsed over and re-familiarized myself with some of the content. During my official content review, I would read the designated section (one/day), do 4-5 practice passages, and then review them. I would alternate subjects and after reading 1 chapter in all of the books, I would take a day to review everything from the past few days. Couple verbal passages a day on the side. Last 2 weeks was doing more practice passages (i probably only finished 2/3 of all the ones i had) and FLs. Was a little burned out at the end.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
BR for Gchem, Physics, and Ochem. EK and EK 1001 for Bio. EK 101 for verbal. I had BR for verbal as well but after doing a few tests decided to ditch it.

4) Which practice tests did you use?
AAMC FL 3-10, and 3 kaplans. Kaplans were all low thirties, and AAMC average was 36.5

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Biology

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?
Practice passages definitely help to develop your test-taking skills like the ability to think under stress, time management, not being freaked out by weird questions, and wise guessing. Background knowledge is only part of getting a good score. I highly recommend BR- their passages really helped me. BR science questions are probably a good estimate of what the actual mcat will have (maybe BR is a little harder) and EK 101 verbal passages are about the same difficulty (maybe EK is a little harder) but the actual MCAT will have longer verbal passages (EACH passage 1-2 paragraphs longer).

Try and replicate the test day as much as possible when doing the FL practice. I think a healthy diet can work wonders on cognitive abilities. I was also a little burned out before my actual test day from the 11 FLs in 2 weeks time before, but I'm thinking that this actually might've helped my score. Being slightly fatigued on test day alleviated most of my anxiety and it allowed me to concentrate specifically on each passage, forgetting the past sections. I didn't let any challenging questions get me down- I gave it my best shot and moved on. I highly doubt I would've scored so high (around 2.5 pts higher than aamc average) if I had been completely well-rested since I know my test-taking apprehension would've been through the roof. Just something to consider for other slightly-neurotic test takers.

I graduated last year so I didn't have too much going on except the mcat, which I think definitely helped. Being able to exclusively focus on the sciences involved with the MCAT was helpful in being able to remember everything. Plus, this means I took the mcat after all my upper div sciences, like genetics, mo bio, biochem, ecology, developmental biology, etc..., which aren't necessary but definitely helped me answer a few questions on my actual mcat that weren't mentioned in my review books.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
10 weeks officially, probably around 4 hours a day during content review, then ~10 hours/day during the last 2 weeks. I also was reviewing some Kaplan material the month before, checked out from the public library- the new Kaplan premier program book, just to refresh general chem and general bio concepts.

CaptainSSO · Mar 2, 2010

Hey Lindsay B I got a 37 R 13 10 14.

**** YEA I get to post in this thread too right behind erskine who I keep
stealing from. I've been hoping I would be able to post in this thread since last summer, when I got a 23 O on a practice test after studying all summer and was honestly wondering if I'd ever be able to break 30.

Studied: Summer 2009 about 4 hours a day weekdays (I was doing research full time), using Princeton Review. Got a 23O on the practice test I took in August. Got in about 6-8 hours a day on weekends, and the last 3 weeks of summer about 6 hours a day.

Fall 2009 - Minimal studying, it was too hard with a full course load. About 2 to 3 hours a week max, ExamKrackers.

Winter Break 2009-2010 ExamKrackers 4 hours+ every single day. Everyday everyday everyday. I did 1 lecture a day, extremely slowly. I would get excited about studying, usually I would get a 16 oz Red Bull and study at night. This is what allowed the material to stick (the slow pace, not the Red Bull. Although that may have been a contributing factor. I fully endorse Red Bull). Averaging 35-36 on my AAMC practice exams at this point. I took one AAMC FL practice test per day (skipped writing section) including the day before my actual test.

Took some diphenhydramine the night before (2 Tylenol PM) so that I could go to sleep early. Day of the test, I drank 2 5 hour energy blacks (extra strength) within 3 hours of each other. It pumped me up so much I was shaking and sweating, but obviously it works. I am also giving out my unofficial endorsement to 5-hour Energy Extra Strength energy shots.

HARD WORK PAYS OFF.

DON'T EVER GIVE UP -- YOU CAN DO ANYTHING YOU WANT TO.

Insulinshock · Mar 3, 2010

So happy I get to post here!!!

1) Your individual scores and composite score

33S... BS-12 PS-12 VR-9

2) The study method used for each section

Although I hate PS, I have to say that using Berkeley Review was absolutely money for gen chem, and as a result it was consistently my best section until about two weeks before the test when I started doing better at BS. I used NOVA for Physics, but in retrospect I regret it.. it wasn't very helpful with electricity and magnetism, and I got a passage specifically about those topics. I was somewhat lost and it probably cost me a point or two on the PS.

For Biology I used examkrackers and audio osmosis, which is plenty. ABSOLUTELY USE EXAMKRACKERS FOR BIOLOGY; it's not too dense and tells you what you need to know.

For verbal I used EK 101 as well as some passages from the Kaplan tests. I started off getting 6's on the passages, but ended up averaging around 11 (got a 9 on the real thing...🙁).

3) What was your undergraduate major?

Biomedical Science

4) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Go over content review multiple times, and space it out. I did two passes of content review, then took two weeks doing problems/ passages, then did another thorough content review, and repeat. This really drills the concepts home over a period of time.

Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to study (I didn't). Although I scored a 33, I felt that given another month I could have hit high 30's easily. You really underestimate just how much material this test covers and how long it takes to (re)learn it thoroughly, and if you really want to score your best potential you need at least two and half months to prepare; this isn't a test you can cram for.

5) How long did you study for the MCAT?

Approximately a month and a half, which I felt was not enough time to adequately prepare. I saw my biggest scoring improvements in the final 14 days of preparation.. who knows what I could have gotten had I had more time?

Oh, and you will most likely feel you did horrible on test day; this is normal. 🙂

Misc · Mar 3, 2010

1) Your individual scores and composite score
PS=15, VR=12, BS=14, Composite=41R

2) The study method used for each section
VR: Didn't study at all which was my downfall 🙁 I had gotten a 179 on the LSAT in December so I was feeling pretty confident, but the MCAT is a different beast indeed. (Edit: I wouldn't say the MCAT is harder, just... less rigorous. Answers on the LSAT are a lot more logically justifiable than the MCAT; I'd argue that many more MCAT verbal answers are debatable.)
PS: I'm an engineer so this section was super easy for me. Also didn't study.
BS: Did all of Examkrackers a while ago, plus I've been trying to take more bio-oriented classes the last couple of quarters.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)
Examkrackers

4) Which practice tests did you use?
AAMC 3

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Bioengineering

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?
I feel that too many people follow someone's (Kaplan's, Examkrackers', or a forum member's) formula word for word and then wonder why that formula doesn't work for them specifically. In my opinion, the most important thing for doing well on the MCAT is to study the way that works best for you. Forget using EK or TBR just because it seems to be everyone's favorite on this forum; go to the library or your friend's place and look through the books to see which one agrees most with your study methods. Do you like efficient rote memorization? Then go for EK. Do you like super-in-depth practice? Do TBR. Do you like background-focused rote memorization? Go for Kaplan or TPR. Also try to think about whether you're a visual learner or not - I'd argue that EK and TBR have many more diagrams than the other companies; maybe they'll help.

Once you've chosen a set of books (or multiple sets of books), try to make a study plan that you think will work best for you. Regardless of what you do, I'd recommend spending at least 2/3 of your time doing practice problems; however, the types of and when to do practice problems can vary depending on your study skills. I personally like the idea of learning the material from whichever textbook you choose, then doing some practice problems, then going back to the textbook to re-learn your weak points, doing more practice problems, etc. Also keep a notebook with a brief description of EVERY QUESTION you were unsure of or got wrong, and frequently go back to this notebook to verify that you remember what you learned. I like to keep my notes organized both by subject and by chapter (in whichever test prep book you chose) for easy reference. It may also help to have one or two pages of notes that have everything that you're super weak on, to focus on later.

Regarding the above study plan, make a DAY-BY-DAY schedule and STICK WITH IT. Too many times, people get behind on studying because they get too busy with other things. Treat each day's MCAT studying as you would homework assignments - just like you'd get no credit for late work, force yourself to do your MCAT studying on time as well. Only if you do this can you (1) feel confident that you will cover everything on time, according to your schedule, and (2) not have to cram everything in at the end which will definitely have disastrous results.

Finally, space out your AAMC's or Mini MCATs in your schedule so you can gauge your progress. Remember that your study plan is VARIABLE - progress going too slow? Add more practice problems to your schedule. Did you learn something much more quickly than you expected? You don't have to do another 200 questions on it. Your target should be finishing all of your studying a couple of weeks before your MCAT, and then spending the entire week before doing practice and brushing up on what you're bad at.

As can be seen from above, I didn't leave myself enough time to study. However, with more efficient studying (i.e. focusing ONLY on what I'm bad at) I ended up doing fairly well. 😀

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
Taking a full courseload with a full-time research position and a part-time job on the side. Needless to say, I had no time at all and probably studied consistently for less than a week. 🙁

equios · Mar 3, 2010

1) Your individual scores and composite score
PS=14 VR=9 BS=12 WS=O Composite=35O

(WS note: Spent less than 10 minutes on each essay, and made sure to include "having sex with goats" in some context in each; yes I did NOT take this section seriously, AT ALL!, actually took a nap using the 40 minutes in the middle)

2) The study method used for each section
I had taken the Kaplan classroom course about 2 years ago.

I followed a 3-month review plan.

As far as preparation, Bio is my extreme strong point, so I spent only about 50% as much time on the bio review as I did on the other subject areas.

1st month: Kaplan Month:

Each week I reviewed a single subject area cover to cover.
eg: Week 1 all of Physics, Week 2 all of Orgo, Week 3, all of G-Chem, Week 4 all of Bio. Left a week for wiggle room and/or extra time to reinforce concepts I had trouble with. Mainly also for my brain to get re-accustomed to the concept of learning stuff!

Main thing I will say here is to read for quality. Take notes, paraphrase, read actively. Kaplan books have generous margins for jotting down lots of notes/paraphrasing. Taking notes has been demonstrated to significantly increase rate at which you learn and retain information! Its a bit of a pain at first, but then its second nature.

I tried SN2'd suggestion of trying some cross-study, but for me staying focused on one subject at a time worked better as far as re-learning this stuff, so thats what I stuck to.

Month 2: EK Month.
Each week, review each subject in the corresponding Exam Cracker's book, and doing exam Cracker's question sets. Per day I aimed to be doing 1/6th of both the review book, and of the problem sets. Yes, about 200 problems a day. Reviewing said problems actually became the biggest pain, but its also where the actual learning happens. Each question I got wrong, I would re-evaluate to see how to reach the answer without looking at the solution key, then if I was stumped check the solution key, re-read the content it was testing in the book, and come back and justify the answer. Wrong answers here are more valuable than right ones.

Month 2 slightly bled over into month 3 for me.

Month 3: AAMC month
As you can guess, lots of AAMC tests! When i took Kaplan, I was along for the ride, didn't do any AAMC tests.

Each week I aimed to do 2 AAMC full length tests. Review EK/Kaplan in between as need and as motivated. One during the week, and one during the weekend.

My strategy with them was with the PS and BS section to aim to be able to finish the section in 45-ish minutes and have the other 45 to review; verbal 40 minutes and 20 or so to review.

3) What materials you used for each section
Books: Kaplan MCAT review book (the $125 10lb one), EK 1001 Q's of all 4 subject areas, EK Study books, all 4 subject areas. Text books, Wikipedia, and internets as needed. AAMC 3-10 (skipped 9)

4) Which practice tests did you use?

AAMC 3-10 except 9
My test spreads were as follows (P-V-B):
3: 11-12-10
4: 12-09-11 (taken while I was sick, hence the 9 V)
5: 12-10-11
6: 13-11-10 (W00t 13 P)
7: 11-11-12
8: 10-10-11 (taken 7 & 8 back to back, come 8 I just didn't give a crap and just coasted through it)
10: 12-10-13 (Note the test was broken and sometimes would give the answer and explanation as part of the answer options, you could strike it through and whatnot like the other answer choices, was odd) (W00t 13 B)

5) What was your undergraduate major?
Biology with a minor in Ethics.

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?
Make sutying part of your daily routine. I studied at work, came home, unwound for an hour, dinner, back to studying. It must become so ingrained that you study that its odd to not be at your books. At the same time pace yourself. Don't over do it and loose focus.

Make sure you are always shooting for QUALITY study time not QUANTITY. Don't look at how many hours you spent studying (really, don't, it just brings you down), look at how much you learned, and learned well. Its better to study for 3 hours and really absorb a lot of information than to auto-pilot through 8 and not absorb a single thing you read.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?
About 3 months at 3-6 hours a day 4-6 days a week, schedule and physical state permitting. Its hard to sit down and do any productive studying after you've been working for 36 hours non-stop.

CaptainSSO · Mar 3, 2010

(WS note: Spent less than 10 minutes on each essay, and made sure to include "having sex with goats" in some context in each; yes I did NOT take this section seriously, AT ALL!, actually took a nap using the 40 minutes in the middle)

That is ****ing awesome. How you managed to do this and ended up getting only one letter below mine (when I spent the full 30 minutes slaving away at it) I have no idea, but I really wish you would have gotten higher.

equios · Mar 3, 2010

CaptainSSO said:
That is ****ing awesome. How you managed to do this and ended up getting only one letter below mine (when I spent the full 30 minutes slaving away at it) I have no idea, but I really wish you would have gotten higher.

On 5/07 administration, when I actually tried my WS score was an S. Considering all the schools I am interested in couldn't care less about WS score, this time around I didn't bother trying. BS, PS, and VR were my three main goals, and I got two of the three down. Hate VR.

AH3 · Mar 3, 2010

1) Your individual scores and composite score

35Q PS-14 V-10 BS- 11

2) The study method used for each section

Attended Kaplan lectures, and did their required assignments online. Didn't read the concept books until about 2 days before the test (reviewed/skimmed over some major concepts). Did a lot of verbal practice sections since it was my weakest section from the start.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

Kaplan materials for all of them. Didn't do anything for writing (Kaplan has a strategy but I just wrote what the prompt told me to pretty much).

4) Which practice tests did you use?

Kaplan and AAMC. Liked the AAMC much better- felt like the scores were more realistically scaled and the test was more realistic.

5) What was your undergraduate major?

Biochemistry

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Don't get too hung up on memorizing every little detail. Taking a lot of tests will help you become familiar with the MCAT's style. Make sure you are finishing every section in time consistently. I was crunched for time on my verbal, but it did have massive passages. Find out what works for you- don't feel like you need to attack each section exactly how your prep class tells you to.

Overall- take a lot of practice tests! AAMC are great, particularly 7-10

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?

Attended Kaplan class twice a week for 3 hours each for a couple months (~3). Not much outside of that during the first two months since I had hard classes, volunteering, and work. Did 1-2 practice tests per week the last month and a couple practice sections from Kaplan's online material each week.

lDanny · Mar 3, 2010

Misc said:
1) Your individual scores and composite score
PS=15, VR=12, BS=14, Composite=41R

2) The study method used for each section
VR: Didn't study at all which was my downfall 🙁 I had gotten a 179 on the LSAT

You are one smart dude! I wish I had your brains.. awesome 👍

StarryNights · Mar 3, 2010

1) Your individual scores and composite score

.
2) The study method used for each section

PS: I read through the first time and really tried to understand the concepts well. Physics really scared the pants off me, but the great thing about it is that you intuitively expect and understand why things happen in a certain way. General chemistry was a bit tougher for me because I don't remember it at all (took it freshman year) and I felt like I understood a lot of things but the truly hard concepts I didn't really master. I read through the chapters and did problems as I went along. After I finished content review, I did problems until I was blue in the face. Problems are absolutely critical, imo, to pound the equations and concepts into your head. I reviewed content again when I found myself forgetting things and taking longer to recall certain equations/concepts.

Verbal: Started doing 2-3 passages at a time, giving myself 7 minutes each. Then I reviewed my answers, why I got certain questions wrong, looked for common traps. Lather, rinse, repeat. I eventually worked down to 6.5 minutes per passage.

BS: I don't really have good advice for this section as I felt I never really got beyond memorization. I did terrible my entire O Chem series in school, but on the MCAT it is very simple concepts so I tried my best to learn it well. Biology was all memorization for me, which was a mistake because the test was heavily critical thinking. Don't ask me how it turned out to be my best section. I'm still scratching my head.

Writing: I winged this section completely. Did not do a single practice. But I feel like I'm a decent writer and I was really into the first prompt on test day. I spent 30 minutes telling the readers about awesome movies. My second essay blew chunks though and I gave up halfway through.

3) What materials you used for each section(Kaplan, TPR, Examkrackers, AAMC, etc)

PS: I had access to Kaplan books but the new edition pisses me off. It contained too much fluff and goes off telling a ton of "funny" stories. I strongly feel that PS should be as dry as possible and cut down to the bare essentials. So I switched to TPR. The organization is excellent and all the tough topics that gave me trouble like magnetism, electricity, acid bases, titration, fluids, etc., I ended up understanding really well.

Verbal: EK101, and I tried to read a lot during prep months.

BS: Kaplan for both O Chem and Biology. For this section, I loved the details of Kaplan books since I'm clueless with O Chem and needed pretty thorough review of Biology.

4) Which practice tests did you use?

Kaplan 1-6, all AAMCs, TPR free one

5) What was your undergraduate major?

Biology

6) Any other tips you may have for those of us who still have this test lurking over us?

Don't just target the big topics but learn everything well. I got an entire passage on a topic that I saw once as a discrete question out of 15 FL practice tests that I took. I'm glad I remember the equations for this. The BS on my MCAT had a lot of evolution and experimental techniques/design as well as data interpretation. So spend less time on content and really hone your critical thinking skills, because I'd say I saw less than 15% of all the content stuff that I crammed into my head. For the most part, everything you need to use is all in the passages.

7) How long did you study for the MCAT?

Around 3 months, and I aimed for at least 3 hours a day. I got really unproductive towards the end though and just wanted to get it over with.

30+ MCAT Study Habits- The CBT Version

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