Independent study vs. course

[obliViate21]

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I wanted some advice on whether studying for the MCAT independently or taking a class for it is better. I wanted to independently study, but I don't know if having an instructor would be wiser..

 

[kehlsh]

i think it really depends on what kind of instructors you will get

from my experience, instructors are pretty useless.

 

[Buttermellow]

I studied independently with EK books. My biggest problem was that I only took 12 credit hours the semester I was studying, but the classes I chose were difficult and/or time-consuming. This led to me not being able to study as much as I would've liked. However, I had 2ish weeks from the time school ended to the time I took the mcat. I studied about 8 hours a day for the first week, and the second week I reviewed and took a lot of practice exams. I think it worked out OK (though we'll see on 6/21 when I get my scores back!).

Independent study is definitely doable with some self-discipline. I'm more of a last-minute studier anyways, so it worked out for me. I didn't want to take a class and wast time on reviewing things that I definitely knew (like most of bio) when I could spend that time focusing on areas that I was weak in.

 

[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.

 

[obliViate21]

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.

Yeah your study schedule is pretty amazing; it's the main reason I decided to study individually. My peers however are taking courses so I thought asking around would be a good idea. Thank you!

 

[obliViate21]

I studied independently with EK books. My biggest problem was that I only took 12 credit hours the semester I was studying, but the classes I chose were difficult and/or time-consuming. This led to me not being able to study as much as I would've liked. However, I had 2ish weeks from the time school ended to the time I took the mcat. I studied about 8 hours a day for the first week, and the second week I reviewed and took a lot of practice exams. I think it worked out OK (though we'll see on 6/21 when I get my scores back!).

Independent study is definitely doable with some self-discipline. I'm more of a last-minute studier anyways, so it worked out for me. I didn't want to take a class and wast time on reviewing things that I definitely knew (like most of bio) when I could spend that time focusing on areas that I was weak in.

Yeah studying during school is tough. I know for sure that I wll not get alot done in terms of the MCAT studying. So I am dedicating a summer to study. Good luck with your results! I hope you do well.

 

[blue0rchid]

i think independent study is better, as long as you have a drive.

 

[Silverfalcon]

A benefit of course though - that people haven't mentioned - is many provide you with their FLs and AAMC FLs, so if you were going to buy them anyway, that saves you a small amount of money. Many also provide you tons of materials online so that's helpful too.

If you have a choice for instructors, I would try to ask if you can sit on one of their sessions before you sign up though.

 

[sc4s2cg]

Everyone of my friends who took a course said they liked it, that it was very helpful. But I'm talking to someone who is currently is in the Princeton course, and she said it really depends on the instructor.

So, all in all, I'm happy with studying by myself. TBR + EK + Khan Academy is more than enough for me. 🙂