Hi,
I used the big MCAT Kaplan book also and I found it pretty helpful. I used my old books mostly when I wanted extra help, review, and to do some problems. I didn't really use my old notes because they were too messy and the book is more comprehensive.
I would definitely suggest the TopScore cd, especially since there really aren't that many optometry test booklets out there. I think the cd gives you four complete tests (timed/not timed) and you can also take each section seperately. At the end, it tells you which topic or subject the problem covered (it's pretty specific) so you can review it if you got it incorrect. It's a fairly accurate representation of the oat, although some have said that the math section is a little easier on the actual test.
But before using TopScore, I took the sample test the oat people sent me. I thought it was easier than the actual test because it did pretty well without studying at all. But it gives you a good idea of what the test covers.
In general, you don't really have to apply concepts, it's just straightfoward stuff. Lots of straight up memorization, like biology and the physics formulas.
I didn't do hard core studying...although it probably would have helped. I studied several hours on the days I did study (2 or more hours) and longer on the weekends. But it really depends on you! I didn't think it was necessary to take a Kaplan or Princeton review course. However, if you're the type that needs the motivation...I would suggest it. Good luck!
Ning-Ju
