Class vs self studying

[jdido09]

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Does anyone have any opinions on this?

I was deciding between the Kaplan or TPR courses, and then started wondering if either has any advantages over just using SN2ed's schedule. It isn't about the money and I'd be fine paying for a class, I'm just wondering which people tend to think gives them the best preparation for the MCAT.

Which did you choose and why?

 

[deep122]

I'm currently in a TPR class. I chose a class because I felt I would need a schedule to keep me on track. Honestly, the classes are helpful to an extent, but sometimes I wonder if I would be better just studying on my own for those 2.5 hours. At the same time, it's possible going to class and actually writing stuff down/taking notes is helping the material sink in better. Who knows. Overall, I think it has been worth it just for the materials/schedule, but if you don't have those problems and have done relatively well in your prereqs, then I think studying on your own with prep books would suffice.

 

[Mazdave]

Basically, a class is going to impose a rigid structure on your studying and will cast a wide net over the material. This is exactly the approach some people need; whether you're one of those people is a question for you.

I personally chose self-study (using EK mainly) since there were certain areas that I knew I needed to study a lot more than others and I could build my schedule to fit my needs as well as the other things going on in my life. SN2ed is a great option if you don't want to start from scratch. The main downside here is that you're accountable only to yourself and your score -- no one is checking up on your studying or teaching you the material outside of what you learn yourself.

 

[SN2ed]

Is a prep course necessary to do well?

No one needs to spend thousands for a prep course. Yes, a great teacher and the camaraderie with your fellow students can help, but they aren't necessary. Courses are also good for providing a schedule, but I hope I've helped in that category 😛 Beyond that, it's important to keep in mind that everyone basically studies on their own. When you're signed up for a course, you'll attend classes and maybe some 1-1 review sessions with the teacher, yet the bulk of your studying is by yourself.