You can use MCAT prep books to supplement your core knowledge. However, there are so many books to choose from, you may need some guidance to find one that fits your learning profile.
Instructions
1. Visit your school library and check out a variety of MCAT test prep books. Perusing these books will help you get an idea of which ones might work well with your individual study methods. Go to websites like Nova's test prep center where they offer individual books on each segment of the MCAT test--biology, physics, chemistry, writing and verbal reasoning (see Resources below). This site provides good explanations of what the books contain and gives you an easy link directly to Amazon to buy.
2. Read online reviews written by others who have studied and already taken the test. They may contain excellent information about what worked and what did not. Amazon.com offers a long list of test prep books with ratings from users (see Resources below). Get input from others who have already taken the test to see if any one book was particularly helpful. Make sure that the books you select contain official practice tests and review questions that have been sanctioned by the AAMC. Books that have questions that are similar to the test do not help you effectively prepare for the MCAT.
3. Before you select a MCAT prep book, examine software and test courses to see which might offer you the best value for your money. If you are taking a prep course, the instructor may already include prep books as part of the class, so you should wait before buying more resources.
4. Compare books that cover each segment of the test versus those that provide an overview of the entire MCAT. It might be a good idea to get a book on the test segment you need the most help with, such as writing or chemistry.
5. Look for MCAT prep books that come with learning flash cards and techniques that enhance your remembering patterns and provide tips that enable you to identify how the testmakers are trying to confuse you. These tips, in conjunction with practice tests, give you a well-rounded study guide.
6. Select a book or books at least 4 months in advance of the test and start studying on your own or with a study buddy. Check the publishing date. Do not purchase a MCAT prep book that is over 5 years old. While it may help you get some idea of what it is like, the tests change quite a bit, so more current editions are the best bet.
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