DAT Anxiety

[CyborgNinjaX]

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I'm guessing a lot of other people (including me) go through anxiety while studying for the DAT.... are there any ways to cope with the anxiety? I mean while I'm studying, I'm so worried that I have only a month to study for this exam and I go ahead and run through everything as fast as possible. HELP!

 

[skyisblue]

I haven't done much either. I have to look at Gen. Chemistry all over again because I am extremely afraid that I picked up on only half of the things I read. I'm most likely taking a practice test tomorrow because I haven't taken one and I don't have any idea as to how the questions are. (If I do, I'll think about posting my scores)

I have all of Biology left (I'm not worried about this as much because its a lot of memorization and after nearly 10 Biology classes, its redundant), 75% of Orgo left (flash cards anyone?) and 10% Chem. left (a lot, I mean a lot of reviewing here!). I haven't even thought of QR yet.... though I'm not worried about that as much. I am seriously considering taking ADD medication because I think I have it. 😕

How much do you (and everybody else of course) have left?

I basically have half of everything left, but I'm reviewing the first half again. I think we can take the test next month. Okay, that's it for me. I'm signing off now. Goodnight and goodluck.

 

[skyisblue]

General Chemistry is so freakin tedious!

 

[skyisblue]

How is everyone doing? I was feeling so tired after work today so I passed out for a few hours. I'm stressed, but I'm going to work on some chemistry for the night. 👍

 

[DDSABeach]

How is everyone doing? I was feeling so tired after work today so I passed out for a few hours. I'm stressed, but I'm going to work on some chemistry for the night. 👍

I'm with you! I have to just take a day off to get my head back on straight. Going to do something relaxing today anything! To get my mind off the DAT for at least 24 hours ... hiding all books and note books. I have DAT numbers dancing in my head.

 

[litldime]

I just started studying the kaplan blue book today... how did you guys effectively use the book? i've been writing little notes to myself in the margin since i plan on re-reading the book again (not planning to take the dat til june)
How do you guys pace yourself now that we're back in school? I'm taking biochem and orgo II and some other classes and I'm a bit worried of how to schedule my time wisely to effectively include dat studying... any suggestions will be appreciated...
-ld

 

[skyisblue]

I just started studying the kaplan blue book today... how did you guys effectively use the book? i've been writing little notes to myself in the margin since i plan on re-reading the book again (not planning to take the dat til june)
How do you guys pace yourself now that we're back in school? I'm taking biochem and orgo II and some other classes and I'm a bit worried of how to schedule my time wisely to effectively include dat studying... any suggestions will be appreciated...
-ld

I try to have a plan or schedule for what I need to get done in a certain time frame. Now that my schedule is so tight, I try to study every chance I get. The trick is to not get burnt out.

 

[skyisblue]

I don't understand what is going on, but I've done well in school many times before, but for some reason this test is my Gibraltar. I can't seem to get a grip and completely follow through. Realistically, with the schedule I have right now, I don't think I can do well on this test. Something has to give. I've already dropped dance and work will probably be next. I can't do it all anymore. Just too tired!

 

[DDSABeach]

I don't understand what is going on, but I've done well in school many times before, but for some reason this test is my Gibraltar. I can't seem to get a grip and completely follow through. Realistically, with the schedule I have right now, I don't think I can do well on this test. Something has to give. I've already dropped dance and work will probably be next. I can't do it all anymore. Just too tired!

Hang in their it will give soon. Take a break put all books and notes away for 24 hours do something fun for yourself. Then, start up again the next day. It helped me to get back my motivation and drive again.

 

[CyborgNinjaX]

Hang in their it will give soon. Take a break put all books and notes away for 24 hours do something fun for yourself. Then, start up again the next day. It helped me to get back my motivation and drive again.

How's everybody? I've been away for a while - so much work to do. I just started research and I've been shadowing a dentist. Pile that on with reading assignments and other pressures. I have been reading my Organic though. I just started making my own flash cards. I'm feeling a whole lot better.

Think of it this way - if you're not in the mood to study, you're hurting yourself more than helping. You're not picking up on anything and you're further tiring yourself out. Remember, taking a break isn't a bad thing, it can help once in a while. Its when you take too MANY breaks that's when it hurts.

 

[skyisblue]

I haven't been able to properly study for this test like I had been due to my classes. I can't wait to get back on track!

 

[DDSABeach]

How's everybody? I've been away for a while - so much work to do. I just started research and I've been shadowing a dentist. Pile that on with reading assignments and other pressures. I have been reading my Organic though. I just started making my own flash cards. I'm feeling a whole lot better.

Think of it this way - if you're not in the mood to study, you're hurting yourself more than helping. You're not picking up on anything and you're further tiring yourself out. Remember, taking a break isn't a bad thing, it can help once in a while. Its when you take too MANY breaks that's when it hurts.

You are so right. I been away trying to get back on track with studying so hard with work, school and fighting my demons of
Procrastination. I know you all really understand me when I say, "struggling." I think I just got really burned out their for a while just studying nonstop and not taking a break and wasting SO much time reading and not retaining NOTHING and finding myself getting so frustrated I ended up quitting! But, now I know I have to study in small increments and take alittle time for myself. Then, I can really focus with enthusiasm: D

 

[skyisblue]

You are so right. I been away trying to get back on track with studying so hard with work, school and fighting my demons of
Procrastination. I know you all really understand me when I say, "struggling." I think I just got really burned out their for a while just studying nonstop and not taking a break and wasting SO much time reading and not retaining NOTHING and finding myself getting so frustrated I ended up quitting! But, now I know I have to study in small increments and take alittle time for myself. Then, I can really focus with enthusiasm: D

I'm not sure if it's procrastination for me. I think it's more like not having enough time, but when I do have time, I can't seem to focus due to the anxiety.

 

[DDSABeach]

I'm not sure if it's procrastination for me. I think it's more like not having enough time, but when I do have time, I can't seem to focus due to the anxiety.

I fully understand what your saying, I choose the word procrastination because when I do find time to study I feel that anixiety take over, as you said, "anxiety" starts to get the best of me. Then, I procrastinate in the whole thing and end up walking away. I find if I stick to the schedule with a back up plan when something comes up unexceptedly and throws me off schedule. I won't get this feeling that I have lost time or I got too far off track and feel that overwhelming anxiety of not getting all this down in time for the DAT. Make sense?

 

[CyborgNinjaX]

My job is probably the thing that is hurting me the most right now. I am trying to work only 2 days, as opposed to 3 (Fri-Sunday at this point). I am waiting on my manager to get the guy that originally worked on Sundays. My life is really busy at this point and having one day free out of 7 days is much better than no days free.

 

[skyisblue]

My job is probably the thing that is hurting me the most right now. I am trying to work only 2 days, as opposed to 3 (Fri-Sunday at this point). I am waiting on my manager to get the guy that originally worked on Sundays. My life is really busy at this point and having one day free out of 7 days is much better than no days free.

Okay, so I'm finally back to studying for this test and feeling optimistic. I am not going to let a test defeat me! We can all do well on this test. Cybor, I think you and I are taking this test about the same time. Let's get rockin! Even if we have to, we will stay up later. Let's do this!

 

[skyisblue]

General Chemistry is my life so far! How is everyone?

 

[DDSABeach]

General Chemistry is my life so far! How is everyone?

NO more breaks for me back on Organic this week. My scores dropped 🙁

 

[CyborgNinjaX]

I don't know what to feel... am I ready? Honestly, I have to review Gen. Chem and almost done with Organic. Reading I think I'm getting training with a Literature class that I am taking right now, which requires me to read at least 20 pages for each class session. QR is something that I think I will have to look over for a day and then I think I will be good. Biology... well its Biology. I think I'll give myself a good week of going at it.

My problems? The above is a real optimistic look at my studies. I could be so wrong that I'll just end up getting under a 20 (my goal is at least a 20 or above). I'm also really inconsistent... I study very sporadically - work, research, shadowing and undergrad. studies prevent me from studying often. I'm hoping that I absorbed much of the stuff I read. I felt a really big hit in my conscience when I was talking to my friend today - he asked me whether I had taken a practice test yet... 😱

 

[CyborgNinjaX]

I don't know what to feel... am I ready? Honestly, I have to review Gen. Chem and almost done with Organic. Reading I think I'm getting training with a Literature class that I am taking right now, which requires me to read at least 20 pages for each class session. QR is something that I think I will have to look over for a day and then I think I will be good. Biology... well its Biology. I think I'll give myself a good week of going at it.

My problems? The above is a real optimistic look at my studies. I could be so wrong that I'll just end up getting under a 20 (my goal is at least a 20 or above). I'm also really inconsistent... I study very sporadically - work, research, shadowing and undergrad. studies prevent me from studying often. I'm hoping that I absorbed much of the stuff I read. I felt a really big hit in my conscience when I was talking to my friend today - he asked me whether I had taken a practice test yet... 😱

 

[skyisblue]

How are you guys studying for the DAT??

 

[ATLATLATL]

sorry guys i don't wanna freak anyone out....but wat is all this commotion about the DAT being harder now?!!!! apparently they now hand you dry erase boards as well....hmm.....i was reading some of the dental forums...and those who re-took the dat mentioned how it was much harder....my TA for kaplan even stated that "there's a rumour going around that the DAT is harder for the 2008 cycle" ahhh wat the funk.......😱...apparently to many ppl were making higher than 20s....ahhh gimme feedback lovely ppl....

 

[eaglesrugby12]

sorry guys i don't wanna freak anyone out....but wat is all this commotion about the DAT being harder now?!!!! apparently they now hand you dry erase boards as well....hmm.....i was reading some of the dental forums...and those who re-took the dat mentioned how it was much harder....my TA for kaplan even stated that "there's a rumour going around that the DAT is harder for the 2008 cycle" ahhh wat the funk.......😱...apparently to many ppl were making higher than 20s....ahhh gimme feedback lovely ppl....

I disagree with the reasoning, although I can't confirm they won't be making it harder.

In the how do my GPA stats compare thread, there's something about average test-taker DAT scores being very consistent for the past 5 years or so.

 

[CyborgNinjaX]

Well its probably like a pitcher can't always throw fastballs down the middle of the plate - eventually the batter will hit it. I'm guessing that ADA is probably tired of doing the same thing, only students are the batters and have figured out the way to beat the DAT.

What's up with the dry erase boards? Is that an effort to make it more harder? I think it is because I'm more of the scratch paper kind of guy.

 

[skyisblue]

How is everyone doing? Do you think we'll be able to meet our designated deadlines for the DAT? Gosh, I hope I do.

 

[gogiantsss]

anybody taking the DAT soon? mine is tomorrow and i'm freaking out. i'm just trying to cram as much bio in as possible... the anticipation is unbearable!

good luck studying guys

 

[DDSABeach]

anybody taking the DAT soon? mine is tomorrow and i'm freaking out. i'm just trying to cram as much bio in as possible... the anticipation is unbearable!

good luck studying guys

Good Luck! Don't forget to breathe! Take deep breaths after answering a few questions, then answer a few more while taking your test it helps you relax and stay focus. Just study the meat of the subjects and formulas you'll do fine. I am re-taking my DAT in May.

 

[skyisblue]

anybody taking the DAT soon? mine is tomorrow and i'm freaking out. i'm just trying to cram as much bio in as possible... the anticipation is unbearable!

good luck studying guys

How did you do?

 

[skyisblue]

Okay, I've had enough of doing General Chemistry problems. I'm going to look at Organic Chem. again.

 

[Buttscratcher]

I have all this study material and I'm so freaked out I don't know where to start...I just sit there and stare at the books!! I'm planning on taking it in may or june, but the only thing I've read it the cover. Help me please!

 

[skyisblue]

I have all this study material and I'm so freaked out I don't know where to start...I just sit there and stare at the books!! I'm planning on taking it in may or june, but the only thing I've read it the cover. Help me please!

I should listen to my own advice, but here it is. You should look at a sample test and then you can figure out what you need to study or focus on.

 

[DDSABeach]

I should listen to my own advice, but here it is. You should look at a sample test and then you can figure out what you need to study or focus on.

What do you do when you have all the material and the study guide lines and, your scores are still not moving up! Freaking out taking my DAT end of May thinking I should move it to July???

I read and take kaplan/TP/Achiever pre-test and the only thing that has helped me and I believe I remember more is when I do take a test and get them wrong and learn the right answers.

I don't think my method of learning is working and it's getting frustrating. I have tried EVERYTHING I believe. And, the clock is ticking.

 

[leedizzal]

I'm guessing a lot of other people (including me) go through anxiety while studying for the DAT.... are there any ways to cope with the anxiety? I mean while I'm studying, I'm so worried that I have only a month to study for this exam and I go ahead and run through everything as fast as possible. HELP!

Drink more!!!!


Little ETOH is all that pulled me through, and You best know what ETOH is if not your screwed... LOL

all in good fun, seriously I had extreme anxiety and what helped me one day I just sat down and said you know what, I can retake this test if i have to... my life will not end if I F it up...... All I can do is do my best...

So other than that not sure what to say.. Although I did drink a lot 😀 it does help a bit...

 

[biocmp]

Starting my small time DAT prep. I will not be taking this test until the end of july, but I am starting to review organic and general chem! If I can lock these down over the next couple of months I will be a happy camper.

Joinin this thread from now on!

 

[skyisblue]

What do you do when you have all the material and the study guide lines and, your scores are still not moving up! Freaking out taking my DAT end of May thinking I should move it to July???

I read and take kaplan/TP/Achiever pre-test and the only thing that has helped me and I believe I remember more is when I do take a test and get them wrong and learn the right answers.

I don't think my method of learning is working and it's getting frustrating. I have tried EVERYTHING I believe. And, the clock is ticking.

It might be because you don't completely understand the concepts?? I don't recommend just memorizing material unless you're fantastic at it, but who really is?

 

[skyisblue]

BTW what's better DAT achiever or destroyer? Thanks!

I would say use both. Each has their own contributions to the test.

 

[BodybldgDoc]

What do you do when you have all the material and the study guide lines and, your scores are still not moving up! Freaking out taking my DAT end of May thinking I should move it to July???

I read and take kaplan/TP/Achiever pre-test and the only thing that has helped me and I believe I remember more is when I do take a test and get them wrong and learn the right answers.

I don't think my method of learning is working and it's getting frustrating. I have tried EVERYTHING I believe. And, the clock is ticking.

Dont postpone unless you feel you're really not ready. 1.5-2 months should be more than enough study time for someone retaking the DAT or else you're gonna start forgetting information eventually.

 

[skyisblue]

Dont postpone unless you feel you're really not ready. 1.5-2 months should be more than enough study time for someone retaking the DAT or else you're gonna start forgetting information eventually.

I was suppose to take the DAT at the end of this month, but forget about it. I'm postponing!!!!!🙁

 

[DDSABeach]

Dont postpone unless you feel you're really not ready. 1.5-2 months should be more than enough study time for someone retaking the DAT or else you're gonna start forgetting information eventually.

I took a break from hard studying and went to just an hour here and their and I REALLY don't recommend THAT! Seems I forgot so much information and I feel like I am starting all over again! I hope 2 months is enough time to learn all this material going from low teens to make 20's. 😱 I wish I could find a good study partner here in Memphis, TN but, seems like I am alone on this one.

 

[CyborgNinjaX]

Alright I've decided when I'm going to take it. No going back. Its in 4 weeks.

Don't be so scared... take a practice test and calm down. Taking a practice test does a lot to your nervousness (is that a word?)... I mean you just calm down and stop being frantic. I don't feel as bad as I did when I first started this topic.

One more thing: its not how much you study, its how good you study. You can read pages 1-40 in Organic Chemistry and not absorb anything or you can read 1-10 and absorb everything. Which one is better? 🙂

 

[ldsmbhc]

I'm concerned about math and reading comp. let me know if you have any advice for these subjects as you go through them. Oki dok Thanks alot🙂

I did well on everything but my math and reading (15 and 17) and got accepted to five schools. When it comes down to it, do the best you can with these sections, but from my experience, the schools could care less about these scores unless you totally bomb it. They care more about your chem. sections, bio, and perceptual since this is the foundational material that is good to be familiar with as a new dental student. Good luck.

 

[PirateSatellite]

I know this gets asked a lot on this board, but to relieve my anxiety....

I managed a AA:19 PAT:19 TS:21 but a 16 in QR....with a 3.3 GPA is it reasonable to do the DAT again? I did apply very late this round (end of October) and haven't heard from any schools yet!

 

[skyisblue]

I know this gets asked a lot on this board, but to relieve my anxiety....

I managed a AA:19 PAT:19 TS:21 but a 16 in QR....with a 3.3 GPA is it reasonable to do the DAT again? I did apply very late this round (end of October) and haven't heard from any schools yet!

What's the breakdown of your scores? And what schools are you shooting for? Is that GPA cumulative or is that for science only?

 

[PirateSatellite]

AA: 19
PAT:19
QR: 16
RC: 20
Bio: 21
GChem: 21
OChem: 19
TS: 21

As for my GPA, unfortunately that's cumulative but I'm hoping they look at a trend, because despite my horrible 1st yr, all the other years have been atleast a 3.5-3.7. My research experience is good as well. I haven't heard anything from for instance NYU yet, but I'm guessing at this late stage all i'm gonna hear is rejection, or do they still hand out interviews?

 

[skyisblue]

Your scores aren't bad at all. I have some friends who are still getting interviewed even though they took their DATs late, but that was because they did extremely well on the test or they have great applications. I think that counts for a lot for late applicants. You definitely need an edge. I think if you had applied early, you probably would've gotten in somewhere already. Your scores are a little above average. Taking it again is really optional for you, but that's only my opinion. I hope that helps. Plus, why don't you contact the schools you applied to?

AA: 19
PAT:19
QR: 16
RC: 20
Bio: 21
GChem: 21
OChem: 19
TS: 21

As for my GPA, unfortunately that's cumulative but I'm hoping they look at a trend, because despite my horrible 1st yr, all the other years have been atleast a 3.5-3.7. My research experience is good as well. I haven't heard anything from for instance NYU yet, but I'm guessing at this late stage all i'm gonna hear is rejection, or do they still hand out interviews?