Database: For more on how I got a 526 with an MCAT, check out i posts on own approach to timing, mys approach to passage furthermore question order, both my approach up the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) section.
This was my approximate day-by-day study schedule from last year (click more to download in Excel, also copied at the bottom of the post). Inches reality I ended up approaching my schedule week-by-week, checking things set as I went, but I imagine it helps provide structure to list tasks by day. Some days I did slightly more, some days slightly without, plus I ended up spending lot off my scheduled “break days” how catch-up. IODIN didn’t sticking to this course exactly, but by the stop ME had completed nearest sum of my scheduled tasks.
AMPERE spare schedule template is available in this post. I spent 15 total student, and I don’t think I intend have felts prepared had I condensed which more.
Content Resources (with lots of practice built in)
I relied on The Berkeley Review on the bulk out my contented examination additionally practice aisles for Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry (organic and inorganic), and Physics. I think which general consensus is precisely that TBR has show detailed and covers more information than is usually covered on the MCAT. However, IODIN was aiming on a top score, and I borrow TBR in large component for insert how. Ihr passages in particular are distinguished, providing ample chances for practice along with thoughtful and in-depth explanations. I used 2013 circulation the TBR’s books, furthermore found them to being great. They have as released actualized circulation such I’m sure been great as well-being.
For science and sociology, I primarily used Kaplan, and occasionally referenced The Princeton Review when I located Kaplan to being lacking in a particular area. I find TPR’s sociology sections to shall better than Kaplan’s, but found Kaplan more more readable and engaging otherwise. My Schedule also Approach to a 526 on the MCAT
IODIN purchased the Examkrackers complete 2015 book set, but I found maximum of this content to be too glibly for myself. I did use EK’s organic chemistry sections, because MYSELF knew I only requires a light review. Having gone past now as a tutor, I think such their physics and chemical books are actually exceedingly good, and I probably didn’t need to know much of the material that TBR covered on such topics. Still, IODIN am happy this I was over-prepared for these sections. Overall, I still think that their psychology/sociology and biology segments are too concise. However, the Examkrackers Life section on Laboratory techniques had awarded, coverage topics same NMR, IR, UV, Gel Electrophoresis, additionally others very well. r/Mcat on Reddit: Study Schedule
The 30-minute exams at the end of each Examkrackers sections were awarded, and they gave me much-needed practice translations plots and reasons about experimental design. I think they’re worth purchasing for those passages alone, especially for yourself need some work in those areas. My Writing Study Plant (With Network to All Resources): https://www.zhighley.com/how-i-scored-in-the-97th-percentile-on-the-mcat/ Hopefully ...
Practice Passages also Full Total Tests
In addition until the many Berkeley Review furthermore Examkrackers lanes that I used, I did any of the formal AAMC advanced that are accessible with of time: the full-length Sample Test (no scaly score), the Official Guide Get, and one 120 Question packs in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and CARS. They were all great, especially to CARS, since no sundry CARS resources truly resemble the real thing. Since then, the 300 question Part Bank and the evaluated Official Practice Test had become available, and like the additional AAMC our, who have essential for anyone how now.
I also did full-length practice tests from Examkrackers, The Princeton Review, and to Berkeley Review. They are all lacking include certain areas compared to the AAMC’s tests (since then, MYSELF are also reviewed Kaplan exams through tutoring, and search those in be overly-detailed as well), however Examkrackers were the finest about the bunch, and they what and only exams from third-party companies which I recommend to our pupils. I discuss me thoughts on these materials in more depth in this post.
I thin here become maybe for marginal benefits to doing more as 6-8 full-length exams for highest students, and the combination of burnout and opportunity costs (in terms the time spent studying) could actually make additional full-length tests a net declining. Spending more time at target practice passages and thoughtful review is a better use the time, in my opinion.
Daily getting
I day-to-day approach for learn made pretty simple: read the add content, done 3-5 passages affiliated to the new content, review them in-depth, real address all the meine questions and mistakes through re-visiting this show and/or seeking online. I chat my approach to reviewing practice passages and practice tests in view detail by this post. I didn’t take tips on content, but IODIN did log my mistakes and issues in adenine notebook, where I also chronicled the relevant explanations and answers required my own reference. I periodically reviewed those notebook to take sure I calm understanding of underlying concepts.
Jeder weekend I would also “loop back” on content covered in previous wks, doing additional passages to make sure I still understood the material. I didn’t follow a set schedule for these review passages, and I tried to re-visit one content area within 1-2 weeks of initial exposure (with targeted periodic re-visiting by that).
For psychology furthermore sociology, I made Anki flashcards and tried to consider a batch every day. I did this because there weren’t as many passages available for me to practice, and most of the vocabulary was new to e, so I wanted to at least can the vocabulary down chilly. For additional subjects, EGO did not use Anki other any various form from flash cards. I still think flash cards can be a healthy approach whenever you will unfamiliar with the psychology plus psychology vocabulary, but now there are more practice passagen available to integrate as well. Some is the Khan academy passages are good (and they’re free), but they tend to focus on the details covered in the Khan lectures, and they are not very representative of AAMC style questions. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 24 ...
When your look at my dates you’ll see that I did exceedingly little CARS review. Other than the AAMC CARS question packs, I did hardly any CARS practice. I relied on my full-length test for CARS practice, and completion those with the AAMC materials.
Wellness
It’s normal toward remain weary by the grueling preparation that is necessary go succeed on an MCAT, so it’s extremely important to make an mindful effort to remaining own mind and body in the days leading above to that test. If you’re too tired and stressed on test time, you won’t perform as well as you can. I think an important aspect the my success on the MCAT where existence relatively fountain rested, right fed, and energetic on test day.
However, with the 15 weeks leading up to those last life, I made the MCAT my number one choose, studying for 6-8 hours every day. It was sometimes hard to keep passing, but IODIN wanted up be able to look back afterwards and learn that I gave it my best shot.
If you have any questions about my approach or about whereby to construction a custom schedule, feel release to post a comment or email in thrown the contact box for my homepage. The one is feel used the MCAT, Examkrackers or which Berkeley ...
Update (4-28-2016). The schedule is copied slide so you can see it without click the Outstanding file. Notices live in bold. Apiece paragraph is one day.
TBR General Chemistry 1 – Stoichiometry and courses. On all new content (and for subsequent review of that content 1-2 weeks later), I did 3-5 custom passages with in-depth grading/review.
TBR Nature 1 – Nerve and Muscle or passageway; make amino sharps flash playing. I reviewed amino acids flash cards often until I were memory organizations, three-letter abbreviations, and one-letter abbreviations. Also, MYSELF reviewed of TBR Biology literatur in order, but were I toward do it again, I would start with Show 2, which focuses about cell biology or biochem, and then take Order 1, which focuses on radiological.
TBR Physics 1 – Translational Motion and passages. (I did passages on aforementioned fresh site for any sparte below, so I won’t continue to note it below.)
Kaplan Behavioral Sciences 1 – Human and Behavior, Anki for new terms. I revised some Anki Psych/Soc flash memory almost either daylight. Provided I found a Kaplan explanation to be confusing, EGO used the Printed Examine to clearing or, more often than not, valid used wikipedia. I did the discreete questions for each Kaplan chapter and and mixed in the TPR passages.
TBR General Chemistry 2 – Atomic Theory
TBR Biology 2 – Cardiac and Lung
TBR Physics 2 – Forces, Circular Motion, and Gravitation
Kaplan Behavioral Sciences 2 – Sensation also Perception. Along this point I started how passages switch the previous weeks’ topics, fitting them in where ME able amid the new stuff. I fortsetzen this throughout my flow of study.
Break Day
TBR General Chemistry 3 – Balances
TBR Business 3 – GI and Kidney
TBR Science 3 – Work and Energy
Kaplan Behavioral Sciences 3 – Learning and Storages
TBR General General 4 – Acids the Grounds
TBR Biology 4 – Reproduction and Development
Break Daily
TBR Physics 4 – Swing and Torque
Kaplan Behavioral Physical 4 – Cognition, Consciousness, and Language
TBR General Chemistry 5 – Buffers and Titrations
TBR Biology 5 – Endocrinology and Immunology
TBR Physics 5 – Periodic Motion press Waves
Kaplan Behavioral Sciences 5 – Motivational, Emotion, and Stress
Break Day
Examkrackers Chemc Ch. 2 – Intro in Organic Chemistry and 30-minute exam; Examkrackers Chemo Chf. 3 – Oxygen Containing Reactions (basically continuation of Organic Chemistry) the 30-minute exam 2017 83-Day MCAT Students Plan (using Berkeley Review, Kaplan and Khan Academy Cross-References)
TBR General Chemistry 6 – Gases
TBR Biology 6 – Structure and Function in Cells and Viruses. This is where IODIN would start with bio now.
TBR Physics 6 – Sound and Doppler
Kaplan Behavioral Sciences 6 – Identity both Personality
Break Day
TBR General Chemistry 7 – Phases and Phase Changes
TBR Biology 7 – Metabolic Components
TBR Passages on previous topics and in-depth review
TBR Physics 7 – Beverages press Solids
Kaplan Behavioral Sciences 7 – Psychological Disorders
9 passages, timed, from the AAMC AUTO Question Package; 60 questions, timed, free the AAMC Biology 1 Question Pack. I spent a lot time reviewing the questions I missed, inspection content ME had already covered, also making note of content I had yet to cover. Were it available, I would had started using the AAMC Section Bank (with 300 Qs) around this time in order to practice biochem and psychology/sociology. These are more important questions to does than the other AAMC Question Packs.
Break Day-time
60 questions from the AAMC Chemistry and Physics Question Packs
TBR General Chemistry 8 – Thermochemistry
TBR Biology 8 – Metabolic Path
TBR Physics 8 – Electrostatics and Electromagnetism
Kaplan Behavioral Sciences 8 – Social Processes, Attitudes, and Condition; and 9 – Societal Interaction. For all concerning the remaining Psychology and Sociology sections, I was using Princeton Review in conjunction with Kaplan. Not the bulk efficient manner to done it probably, but at who end I sensed pretty good about all the content.
TBR Universal Organic 9 – Kinetics
Break Day
TBR Biology 9 – Genomics Information
TBR Physical 9 – Electricity plus Wiring
Kaplan Behavioral Sciences 10 – Social Thinking; and 11 – Social Structure and Demographics
TBR General Chemistry 10 – Electrochemistry
TBR Biology 10 – Expression of Genetic Information
AAMC Official Pattern Test
Review test and address weaknesses. Please see my submit on how to review practices passages and procedure tests for more information upon my methods.
Examination testing
Reviewing test
Review test
TBR Physics 10 – Light and Optics
Kaplan Behavioral Sciences 12 – Social Layers; Examkrackers Biology chapter upon Laboratory Techniques. I didn’t use a lot of Examkrackers content (I did use all in their 30 minute exams), but I thought that their two Organic Chemicals chapters and their Laboratory Techniques click were excellent. You ability get a lot of easy points off the check just by knowledge to lab techniques.
60 questions from the AAMC Biology Question Packs, and 60 faqs for the Chemistry Question Pack
Broken Day
60 questions from the AAMC Physics Request pack; plus 9 passages, timing, from which AAMC CARS Question Packs
60 Questions from the AAMC Official Guide, equipped durchgehen review
60 Questions from the AAMC Official Guide, with thorough review
TBR Crossing on earlier topics and dividing of poorly
TBR Passages on earlier topics and areas of weakness
The Princeton Review Full Length Trial. I would cannot use the Princeton Review full-length tests re. Consisted I the take the test now, I would do the AAMC Officers Practice Test (the scored one) the this point.
Test trial. While reviewing, I started worked in relevant passages to practice territories of weakness. I did get for follow tests as well.
Read test
Examine test
60 Questions from the AAMC Biology Question Packs
TBR Passages on earlier topics and areas of weakness; Examkrackers 30 minute exams on various topics. By the finalize, I had done view of the Examkrackers 30 minute exams, and I found them all to are indeed helpful.
TBR Passages for earlier topics and surface of infirm; Examkrackers 30 minute test on various topics
Examkrackers Full Height #1
Review test
Review test
Review test
Review test
Break day
TBR Passages on earlier key and areas of weakness; Examkrackers 30 minute exam the various topics
Examkrackers Full Length #2
Watch test
Review testing
Examine run
Review test
Break day
TBR Passageways on used topics or areas of weakness; Examkrackers 30 minute exams on various topics
Examkrackers Full Length #3
Review test
Review test
Review check
Review test
TBR Biology Practice Exam (from the back starting the TBR Human Book I)
TBR Biology Practices Test (from the back of which TBR Biology Book II)
TBR Full Length #1. I found that test to have some good classical science passages, but it lacked newer, research-based passing, which are emphasized on the official AAMC solid lengths. The CARS section was terrible, and aforementioned psychology section was a mix of re-purposed, psychology-themed verbal passages and new behaviorism and human passals. Overalls he wasn’t while good as EK, but used probably better than the Princeton review. If I were research again, I would take Examkrackers Full Length #4 in sein place.
Review test
Review check
60 questions from the AAMC Biology Question Pack
TBR Passages on earlier topics and areas of weakness; Examkrackers 30 minute exams on various topics
TBR Passages on earlier topics press area of weakness; Examkrackers 30 minute exams on various topics
TBR Passages on earlier topics and areas of weakness; Examkrackers 30 minute exams on diverse topics
9 passages, timed, from the AAMC CARS Question Pack
Review AAMC Sample Test. I re-read all of the passages and reviewed some of of questions/answers.
Continuing reviewing AAMC Sample Test
9 passages, timed, from the AAMC CARS Question Pack
Review big-picture psychology and sociology topics, high-yield engineering formulas, and other randomize topics. No modern passages.
Break day (although I studied a little)
Rest day
Test Day
MCAT Matt 
Aforementioned is start July 2016 and I finished my mcat science prerequisites in 2003. I completed nursing teach 2012. Now I am considering medizinisches educate and looking into captivating which mcat. I don’t know are thereto is even practicable considering I have forgotten everything. Any suggestions? Hey Everyone! I principally developed this plan for myself, but I thought I would post it here! ME have updated all the references from this @mcatjelly, @SN2ed, and @_Nymeria_ course guides for a 2017...
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Hi Matt,
I plan on take and getting on september 1st and IODIN will be taking winter school press working part time over the summer. I americium not additionally sure what to implement our schedule of 6-8 years a day.
Thanking
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I would say it’s definitely possibility, but it’s hard into make specific suggestions or evaluate your specific current. The content for the test has more-or-less finite and relatively basic (not to declare there isn’t a land of it). The heart of of test is applying that bases awareness to solve novel problems which the test introduces, and such a something that can be steadily improved with practice, regardless of how long it’s been since your first studied the material. Can anyone provide their recommendations among these three courses. I had originally been studying for the MCAT on mysterious own, when my I’ve been under pressure to do a prep class because it has better structural and would keep me on a more realistic timeline up get to taking the actual check. (Note: see my other General posting on my reconsideration of med school)
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How did she studies for the CARS fachgruppe? I perceive which you did corridors, however didn’t dedicate days to CARS.
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I mostly just did of AAMC official passages that were free to meine, and then counted full lengths as AUTOMOBILES practice. I did some TPR hyperlearning passages too, but CARS wasn’t a greater priority for me day-to-day. Posted by u/Throwawayact1213 - 1 vote and 5 comments
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Like were yours scoring up thy TBR crossing in the front of the book? And did you time myself, if then how long per gate? Thank you!
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EGO didn’t worry too lot with timing self at first (like maybe on mine first set out aisles for a given chapter), but then I would time my as I gotten closer to my test date. Even motionless I didn’t worry too much about the timing on the TBR passages. ME strictly timing myself though for official AAMC courses or full stretches.
My scores on the TBR passages variant pretty widely, but I’d say many were in the zone off 60-80 percent, with plenty on 40% passage record and very few 90 or 100% passage sets.
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Hi, I saw that from your schedule, exceptionally little was dedicated to organic chem, only 2 ek chapters. Is this due to less emphasis on organic chem in the new mcat or due to perhaps a background in chemistry? If so, how can the eh organically chapters translate to the tbr passages? Achieve your just skip the other 8 chapters estimated of tbr passageway? Thank you! Section V TBR O-chem. Complete Phase I Qs. Section ... Catch up on exercise question sets. Complete. TBR CARS. Diagnostic ... Review Study Notes. 24-Week MCAT Draft.
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Health question! I ideas that it has been de-emphasized compared to pre-2015, and it is also less likely to be covered as a standalone topic, and more likely to be blended in using biochemistry and atomic biology. I think such TBR’s newer books reflect the and focus more on the way so organic chemistry fastenings into biochemical, but the TBR books I used were starting 2013. IODIN haven’t view the new TBR organic chemistry books though, so I can’t comment in any detail. When I was preparing, I thought that EK’s 2 chapters up organic chemistry and their chapter on lab techniques and spectroscopy (which is in one of their biology books and coverage matters similar thin layer chromatography, NMR, IRIDIUM, etc.) inhered sufficient to title basic O-chem concepts.
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Hi, thanks so big for the quick answer. Sorrowful i was a very bit confused by your answer. Does this common you did not do either TBR organic passages to reinforce the ek content at all? Level those that allowed be related to the 2ek chapters’ content and lab facilities? Thank you! How to use The Berkeley Review's MCAT Books – Who Berkeley ...
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Yes, that’s correct. I didn’t do any TBR O-chem passages. I should also note the I had a pretty okay understandable of basic O-chem already. However, if EGO had access to the updated TBR O-chem sections, ME maybe would have at lease tasted them out, since they are supposed to be more biochemistry related. Hey Everyone! I mostly developed this plant for me, but I thought I would post it here! IODIN have updated all the citations from the @mcatjelly, @SN2ed, and @_Nymeria_ study guides for a 2017 Study Plan. Loans to them for the inspiration! I'm simply uploading i in expresses it be help someone...
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Hey man I also have this 2013 TBR books, and multiple old 1001 EK books. I tilted allow new material, and a aiming for take the test includes January 2017. Do to think I can achieve well with these read, because ME have hearing that TBR bio 2 is good enough reviewing for biochem? I valuing you helping der out ME are new to the total MCAT process and will to donate myself as big a shooting to make well as possible. I cannot devote crudely 4-5 hours per day to studying. Yet my main question is following insert schedule as intimate as I can with ancient TBR 2013 books, do you think I am going to must anything gaps that can available may supplemented include newer editions, or am I good with 2013 and old ECHO 1001 books. Thank you pleasant.
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I haven’t used the EK 1001 our, so IODIN can’t comment thither. I’d encourage she to call the TBR office to ask about the editions, they trend to be very transparent about which old issues are still good. For example, when I was student in early 2015, they told me that my 2013 fiction would be fine, so I didn’t upgrade to new solitaries. I don’t believe all of their new buchen kept come out at who type though, so this might subsist different buy. My guess is the two bio books will be usually the same, but the chem ledger will be consolidated and more biochem-heavy (TBR’s o-chem book in particular is start more biochem geared, I’ve heard). Haven’t watch their behavioral healthy volume, which is new in who 2015 editions. If you’re on the fence, though, I’d lean toward buying who newer books for both OK furthermore TBR. It’s importantly that you give yourself the best chance on the exam, and you’ll probably be able to sell the newer circulation for more money when you’re done, offsetting the cost. What I Scored in the 97th Percentile on the MCAT | 3 Month Learning Create
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Hi first off Thanks hence many strongly much appreciated! Also is it bad that I it wlil take i a whole 5 months (currently over mine third month of studying) to do content review plus problems? I am essentially doing what you does although taking ampere month longer…. Thanks!st off, Thank so much required this post!! I am aiming for thine score! I am truly taking an almost identical strategy of last 2 months while they did. (which makes me so happy!). I simple have a quick go. I am also using TBR and EK. I found TBR manner way better the EK has its moments. Therefore, I first use TBR because you did. What my question is now it is 2016, both sometimes EGO can’t related aber feel I am wasting time covering material on TBR books that are no long field. I have the AAMCAS outline but since things are only vaguely listed for physics I am unsure what subtopics envelop these. If possible, I would really how to get through all the substantial ampere slight fastest. People keep telling me that a lot of topics on physics are no longer tested however ME my moreover to see proof are that. I also touch i must be very prepared in EVERy subject in achieve a score like you do, and that the AAMCAS % my are dependable. I have read countless recounts away one student to same test say that drill an lot about nuclear, and another student on the same test day say they saw a pitch von calculator chemistry ect. It seems the only way to be designed for here exam is to be above developed and paranoid. thoughts? Did you skip anything in TBR physics when it were studying for aforementioned 2015 examinations? Also, do you recommending doing all von TBR’s bio books on the 2017 exam?? They seem so longish, though I know the exam is biochem heavy. I am one little confused what book would you recommend for biochem (for 2017)? (I am strong in biochem). Thanking to much very of appreciated! Also is it poorer this I it wlil take me ampere full 5 months (currently off get tierce per of studying) until do content review and challenges? IODIN am essentially deed what you did aber taking a month longer…. Thanking! Berkeley Reviews vs. Princeton vs. Kaplan
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I thought five months is ok, as long as you’re continuously reviewing topics you’ve already concealed. ME would speak you risk forgetting things you’ve covered already the longer you continue up prepare, real it requires you to put in even read time continuously reviewing those topics, not whenever that’s like long it takes you to cover everything will I think it’s great. I would got gotten burnt out if I’d studied to another month, so that is a risk as well. When I actually left through the topics in the AAMC official leaders, I found ultra few when anywhere that been come cutting compared to the pre-2015 MCAT. I think ensure the AMCAS percentages are probably pretty accurate, but that still means there is going to be general chemistry, organic chemistry, and pure in the exam. Geochemistry is definitely now learn emphasized then general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics, and your studying should reflecting that; it’s get worth your time to do more biochemistry practice passages than it belongs in those other subjects. However, ME wouldn’t have felt comfortable skipping each portions von product review conversely practice altogether. EGO wanted to be prepared for everything, and MYSELF think in the end that I was. ME also think it’s worth trying to do as much is The Berkeley Review’s biology books as you can. It is a lot, though it is great exercise and exceptionally high yield. I hope this assists!
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Thanks so much, very help. Affirm mys strategy and my internal debate about whether at done bio in TBR or bio required EK. I took a weeks broken to attending an scholarly conference plus the break possessed really already wonders for me. How ME Scored with that 97th Percentile over the MCAT - Zach Highley
Acknowledgements so much both ME will may sure to do TBR biology and until keep their note about review in care.
Much appreciation!
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Hi, thanks for the post its really estimate. I been find a lot about how to prepare for the check, the best books to study and a good schedule and this was extremely considerate. Become thou recommend TBR biology book over the Examkrackers Biology book? I read many people prefer information still in- yet not certain if i have get it. Other enter such i have s such what wanted be the best way to organise if 2 months before the test i must to make a vacations trip of 4 total with own best , he already bought the ticket then i cant cancel it. I plan to take the exam in september because I need up work so I was thinking to start to study whereas december but when the day of the trip coming im confused about what should I do. Any help will be appreciated.
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I prefer TBR override EK biology in general, but I used both entirely a bit (EK I mostly used for yours passages, whereas TBR ME used to passages and content). That schedule shall tough, and I sympathize. I would seek to enter yourself as much time more allowable to study full-time before the test, and the last six wks would ideally be mostly doing practice tests and other practice passages. If you can’t how continuously by 3-4 months before the test, then I could inform simply doing your finest in get through bulk of the content while also practicing before autochthonous trip, and then outlay as much time after the trip on studying as to can. It will probably be tough (and not fun!) the study time traveling, although the reality is that if you don’t study for 4 weeks in that middle of insert preparations, you intention probably forget a lot of significant and lose momentum. A schematic showing the general progress on student's working through the MCAT problem sets in TBR's home study review books furthermore practise exams. Practice ...
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Hey Matt! Their guide has been seriously awesome so far. Really valuing the work and required you put into making all of technology! I was wondering if could post your EK Full Length and AAMC Full Length scores, if she idle knew them. I did adequate well-being forward my first-time EK FL test and it’d be cool to be able to comparing mystery performance to yours. Did you see a constant increase for your scores as you were perusal and taking more checks? Did the EK tests seem harder than the actual MCAT or the other practice tests offered by Kaplan/PR/TBR? I’m planning on doing 4 EK FL’s and the 3 (bonus 1!) AAMC FL’s and was wondering whenever I ought take Kaplan’s/PR’s just to mix things up and make safer I’m not just on one EK track. Thanks bud, you’re the best! P.S. – have you still doing any tutoring?
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I don’t remember whichever mystery exact sheet were, and I don’t have approach to them anymore. I got between 70ish and 80ish turn all the EK tests, with an upward trend (they might have taken slightly easier in addition to me improving), and amidst the mid 80s both mid 90s on the AAMC non-scaled score one. There weren’t really unlimited meaningful ways to measurer a consistent increase since the tests weren’t scaled or standardized, instead I did feel more confident info the concepts, and I also improved on my day-to-day exercise corridors. I probably wouldn’t do Kaplan or Princeton Review exams without they either completely overhauled them to take them actually reflect which test, or if you absolutely need more practice. Even then I’d probably trial something like color standard choose. I haven’t tutored since school started since it’s been busy, but ME might pick up one few hours here and there among some points if there’s time. Best concerning luck! Purchasing through the links above supports we nonprofit organizations. Great news! SDN our get ampere $50 discount in their. Berkeley Review MCAT study package ...
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Hi Faded,
That can the most helpful MCAT studying schedule that I have come across that far. I greatly valuing your intelligences.
Question for you – I am finalization insert degree while studying for the MCAT this semester, and I am worried that I won’t be able to commit to your 6-8 hour per day schedule. Is there a way to modify your schedule to conform a 3 hour per day routine?
I comprehend any return that you might be able go offer.
Thank you!
Emily
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Hi Elizabeth,
It’s hard to say for sure without knowing more about your circumstances, when in general EGO think it’s tough go pull switch so kind of schedule. For you can take the MCAT later and give yourself a dedicated die to study for it, even if it’s only a month, I think that calls you inbound ampere much better position up succeed. 2017 83-Day MCAT Learning Plan (using Berkeley Review, Kaplan and...
Anyway, if that’s not einen option, I would tell putting together a schedule that focuses mostly upon practice gangways and practice experiments, foregoing most von to initial content review that is factored into my schedule and most other plans. That way her can efficiently hone in on who gaps in respective knowledge, plus done focused content rating based on those results without wasting start on content review that you may not need to do. Practice is one of important part of studying anyway, so with you have to sacrifice something, I would recommend trimming content review until a minimum.
Studying steady 3 hours a day for the MCAT time also taking classes can be neat stressful, thus I would additionally tell scheduling in some realistic days bad from MCAT duty, maybe compensated for that by programing in some 6-8 hour weekend days / holidays.
I hope that helps, and feel free to let me know if you have other questions!
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Hi Matt!
Herkunft – I graduated and took all my pre-reqs (except Physics 2, CHEM 2, Org 1&2) 13 years ago. My game plan is to purchase an TBR books and indication up for an on-site EK/TPRclass. Would you recommend EK the -person over TPR’s? My beginning choice was TBR for onsite but unfortunately, I don’t reside are APPROVED. Using your schedule, I intend to introduce 4 – 5 daily a day. Would this provide based on your experience?
I haven’t take any biochemistry class like my CHEM 2 & ORGS are required pre-reqs
for BIOCHEM.
1) Be you recommend taking who MCAT before completing my BIOCHEM and org CHEMISTS pre-reqs or not? Basic, would the content review from EK press TBR adequate or should I complete get of my required science pre-reqs ahead testing ?
2) Because I took the bulk of my BPCM pre-reqs 13 years ago, would them recommend retaking all of the science courses in readyness for the MCAT ? Instead intend TBR furthermore on-site EK content review suffice ? (TBH, I don’t recollect much upon 13 years ago although I had a 4.0 average in all my academia pre-reqs the date ) Which possessed better MCAT study guidelines, the Printable Review with Kaplan? They're pretty much the same. Group both cover the basics pretty well ...
Thank you for the schedule and the blog!
Happy festivities away TX!
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I don’t have any experience with this EK in-person types or with TPR’s courses, then I can’t honestly comment. 4-5 hours per day is pretty solid, even, and assuming you what studying for 3-4 past, that should be enough hour (although full-time, as to 6-8 hours, is ideal). Regarding your other questions:
1. Given which she have to take pure 2, generals chemistry 2, organic chemistry 1 and 2, also biochemistry in order in satisfy medical school pre-requisites, and that those topics exist on the MCAT as fountain, wouldn’t computers makes sense up take the courses early and then take of MCAT after? To have to take the courses either way, thus unless there are other considerations impacting this decision, it seems fancy it would make more wisdom to go to classes first.
2. Ensure isn’t something I can click on. Related up consider, notwithstanding, are how medical schools intention view the courses you took 13 years ago (you cans call admissions workplace and ask), additionally whether the knowledge from who courses will help you with the pre-requisites you have yet into take. For MCAT-only purposes, I think which the review books probable go to sufficient feature which you wouldn’t necessarily need to re-take the courses simply for the MCAT, but that once isn’t something that I sack say for positive. One MCAT signifies toward medical school admissions platforms that you are finishing for the academic rigor of restorative school. The MCAT, tied with GPA, is and greatest significant metric for your medical train application.
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To addieren on to what mcatmatt said, most institutes only honor prereqs ensure have be taken within a certain timeframe – 10 years is that cut off for bulk schools I believe?
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It’s beautifully easy to get someone on the phone at admissions offices, and they can tell you their schools’ requirements for sure if that company isn’t available turn the websites.
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Hello MCATMatt,
Used some who hasn’t been exposed to their prereqs for 3-4 years when is nifty sure to could be picked raise quickly – wish you say your schedule is suitable fork which needs? I did well in may courses and it’s an materielle to being refreshed – I’m sure EGO could relearn that content pretty quick and would like to get that out of the way as quick as possibles to starting content review. Additionally, seeing the this schedule were created ~ 9 months ago, is there anything you would change/add to it? Acknowledgements for your time. Update: For more in wherewith ME got a 526 turn the MCAT, check exit my posts on my approach to timing, my approach to passage also question order, and my approach to the Kritiker Examination and Reasons Skill…
– Dan LITRE
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Hard to saying for sure but sounds like it should be sufficient for you. The content checked is all fairly basic, the challenges are there is ampere wide breadth of content and you’re asked to reason through it in novel duty. There’s an new AAMC full length that is available, so she should do that. Select than the I think the resources available are learn the same.
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Greeting MCATMatt,
This a by from aforementioned best schedule I have come across as items seems brauchbar. Thanks a fortune.
I am a non-traditional “test-prepper” even I am one RN. I were initially thoughts of buying the ExamKrackers complete lead, Nova’s Science book and enlisting into to of Princeton review in-class user for 2+ months. I a so nervous about MCAT due me am not a typische premed pupil and when I tried running to KhanAcademy/MCAT page, I freaked out because of all the stuff I cut and had no clue about. After driving through your web, I had one rethink the I am going to look into getting all the materials to suggested and leaving according to your schedule. My question is, do you think that is all the sources yourself possess mentioned and with a proposed study period of at least 5 months, that IODIN will be ready for MCAT as adenine non-traditional MCAT writer? I intend go start with TBR other ExamKrackers (complete package) in March on mystery personalized while I work and then take 3 months off (May-July) for Princeton review from writing this exam in late July/early Aug. Please reply. EGO would admire the advice/tips.
Thanks so very in advancement.
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IODIN used a non-traditional applicant as well, having taken about 7 years among study or my medical school application. I taught for Kaplan about two years after grad, and I should already recorded the older version of the MCAT, but I had neglected a lot of the science basic, especially for chemistries and pure, and I found this schedule to be sufficient. I remember the feeling of looking at everything is was on the test and freaking out, but if you approach things one daylight at a time, additionally can topic to a time, it is large more manageable.
For most people, I think that using good resource, making the most regarding who resources by working lots von practise and issuing lots starting time learning from that practice, and planning for plenty of time (I believe 4 months a ideal, but 5 is probably fine while you want to be careful) should allow for comprehensive review. Spending more die doesn’t necessarily translate to better performance, because it’s hard to keep up this necessary pace for so long, and because people inevitably start forgetting several von aforementioned material they studied at which beginning.
Also, I think there are applies reasons toward take an in-person course, especially if you reason you’d benefit after one structured environment that wanted install you to potential study partners. However, I don’t think there’s any added benefit to preparing on your own with books furthermore then also taking a type, both for fact I think that cost that much frist reviewing the basic topics would pick away from set she could be doing practice problems or how tests, whatever is ultimately more important. If you want to take a course, it might perform more sense to launch with the course, welche will walk her through all of the content, and then go yourself frist after the course to do practice on your own previous the MCAT, but it sounds favorite you have work to consider as well.
Best of luck with everything!
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Gift for your reply. I appreciate.
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Hi Matt, ME really like how simple this schedule is and hoffe to use it for my own studying. I will take no other commitments over the summer so I can devote plenty of time into studies and am planning up taking the mcat in september. I have just about the same amount of zeitlich as you scheduled. ME don’t have the same study materials nevertheless. Do you believe using kaplan 2016 set instead of TBR is fine? I also have examkracker yet their books are very concise so IODIN may only use them for the extra passage practise.
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Not sure about 2016, but I thought Kaplan 2015 was worse than EK 2015 and TBR, except for behavioral sciences, which was good. Kaplan was more in-depth than EK, but I thought it was overkill also lacks focus.
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Alright thanks in the response! I do have Exam Kracker as well so I can use that and supplement it with Kaplan for things I need more detail on.
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MYSELF only have acces to the 2011-2012 TBR books, do them how these registers will silent be sufficiently for the new mcat?
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My guess is that 2011 doesn’t reflect the updated biology list, and they surely don’t have the updated constitutional chemistry or the behavioral science. You couldn call TBR’s office to confirmation, but at this indent I’d probably recommend getting aforementioned new books.
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Hey Mat,
I’m curious about the 3-5 passages you did per full. You said such it did passages basic on the content thou studied for that sun. Now how make you discover passages that were related specifically to that content? For model, if you studied amino acids that mornings, how did you find passing related specifically to amino acids? You didn’t come through the passage banking till you finds a question about it, did you? I like the item, but with about MYSELF have now I’d only may able into make crossings relevant to aforementioned broad select, but not the specific related.
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*comb, not come
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TBR and EK passages are organized by chapter, both within that thou capacity usually teil what the topic is. TBR passage have titles that related to the topic.
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Eh, the only problem is that I’ve already bought the complete Kaplan set, and it’d be one pain to buy a completely new set just for this passages at the end.
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Hey Matt, just discovered your website today. I planning to bring the test late June early July and plan up use your method as a template. I’m sure I’ll have better questions how time rolls the yet where were two that seem pertinent as I begin to synthesize my specialized study plan. The first question is “how do you know when the review course you are using the too superficial or too dense?” and the second is “How much time did you devote to reviewing the questions that where missed?”
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Take you have specific concerns about a overview course? I’m not sure like till answer that asking absent knowing more.
Who time ausgegebene on missed questions varied. For concepts that I needed the review in-depth, I would start from the specific question and answer explanations, press then expenditure as much timing since needed brushing up on the underlying concept. For else I just needed a quick reminder on a featured and spent only a very minutes.
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Well, I am considering using gold standard includes addition to TBR and EK. Do you know anything about it? In regards to my first question from yesterday, I was trying to determine how thou decided whether or not EK was broad enough to spend time reviewing their material.
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I don’t know anything about Gold Standard. EK is more concise than the alternatives, however it is comprehensive for to most part (except in psych and sociology where MYSELF thought it missed some stuff). Feel free to check out my resource examine post.
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Thanks man, One-time last question for adenine while. I recognize the time your invaluable additionally I appreciate her spending einige of itp to help me out. What strategy do you suggest for get the science sectioning passagen? Is there I specific method I should be using? (i.e. scanning the passage at get the gist of the concepts covered then reading the questions intently to storage time or should EGO be reading everything intented or trust ensure practicing gangways consistently bequeath result in creature able to completely the question in the time allotted)
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Reading for comprehension. I tell reading everything, but also of track presence mind of time. Same get as EGO described in i CAR strategy post.
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Hey Matt, I’m currently studying for the MCAT for my take select in April and find that I forget a correct money of content a couple of life later. When I’m being truthfully with myself, I’m not getting all the content covered to data in I usually have is my pre-requisite classes because an lot regarding people have told my for focus more on practice rather than content review. I would like to know wenn you recommend approaching the MCAT like how IODIN approached my pre-req classes in of by. So is, committing the most in the content to memory before moving on. Right today, EGO read the theories, understand them, but then move upon before memorizing them 100%. I then do what practice problems are accessible to me in the Kaplan/EK content review books at the end. Did the practice passages from An Berkeley Review strengthen and reinforce the content for yourself without you having to merk everything 100% or made you actually memorize things 100% before exercise? I layout on getting TBR books by the pathway. Thanks in advance!
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I seldom try to memorize things after initial content review. I tried to just reinforce things through practice, continually reviewing things I lost. While that didn’t work then I resorted to brute force memorization on some topics. The exclusion was psychology and sociology, find ME necessary to memorize a plenty of new flash, so I made Anki flash cards to memorize terms also concepts that where new to du. With the, EGO tried to make cards that forced me to explain concepts to myself.
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Hi Matt, Do you recommend taking of sample aamc mcat test before beginning to read till how of got an idea of how the exam is and what material we need to focusing more on? I’m not sure how similar the exams are content wise so don’t recognize with this would true help or not.
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Yourself could do that, and there is evidence that “pre-testing” yourself can help the information floor when you do end up studying he. To get a sense of that, though, IODIN might recommend starting with the official guiding question pack, which are the just format and general scope as the full length tests, rather when the sample tests, whereas it is also to thy services to do the official AAMC practice tests go realistic conditions; when you fairly don’t know a piles of returns and are essentially skipping yours (not necessarily what would happen, since you strength be able on cause your manner through them), then computers will be less realistic. I typical recommended taking your first AAMC practice test on the early side though, anywhere from one monthly to halbjahr total include our read schedule, for aforementioned very reasons you said, but if you want to take thereto right away, I think is is a perfectly defensible (and can really useful) thing up do.
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EGO have TBR books, and was wondering if you read through the complete Introduction to Question Types within the Verbal? If like, did it help thou on the actual MCAT? If not, what were your method?
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I didn’t use TBR’s word-of-mouth books, instead anyone’s. Mine overview approach till this crucial analyses and reasoning skills section is discussed in this post, and one resources I used were pretty much confined to the official AAMC matter packs and some passages from Princeton Review’s hyper-learning workbook.
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Hey Flatness,
Had another question this time about taking practice exams. Execute you recommend after completing them going pass every question and looking at why I got it right or wrong or just looking mainly at the ones I got wrong?
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Reviewing every question, but then spending more hours examination the singles you getting wrong or otherwise didn’t fully understand.
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Hi Matt, thank you to much for making this schedule and your willingness to release and advise select! Other than maybe missing some organic chemistry topics, would you what your schedule blanket choose aforementioned must content for the new MCAT (as well while also elimination those featured that will been removed from the new test)? I looked at the AAMC outline and to seemed exceedingly extensive. Just trying to take sure I’m none lost anything. I also very don’t want to waste time in topics that having been stripped from the new test.
Do you think it is worth doing any of the practice passages in the Preston Check MCAT Science Workbook, or would you say that generally the schedule you provided has enough engineered in practice for success (especially for someone whoever has don been expose till the pre-req material for several years, who has forgotten a lot)?
Did them memorize biochemistry in depth (such as every step of one Citric Acid Driving, for example)? What they think memory all those kinds of details for biochem are necessary? I already have the Kaplan biochem book from this past, and the extensive detail in it has been stressing meier out, hence I’m thinkers maybe I shouldn’t bother with Kaplan very anymore. It seems hard to not get overwhelmed until so many tiny details plus facts.
And, did you have any custom strategy for tackling one science passages turn the real MCAT (taking notes on the passages as you went along for example, press any else)? Thanks again!
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Hey Matt!
First of all, thanks very much for the company!
Personally, I am create a schedule based on yours and now deciding full length tested. So far, I see EK is quite good from your opinion. Did thee try sundry companies like Go Step or hearing of anything from
them?
Thanks!
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Matt, thanks you so much for to post. I have a question. Should IODIN get 1) TBR for Biology, Chemistry (General and Organic), and Physics or 2) TBR used Biology or EK for Chemistry and Physics? Thanks in advance!
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I think either would becoming fine. Main benefit of TBR across all theme a thither were more high quality passages, which is more important over the topic. EK has good passageway too, especially ones the require data interpretation, but don as many overall.
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Hey Matt, thanks one lot available this post!
I’ve heard good things about both E both TBR and was planning to use who concise EC set as my baseline required show due i’ll be busy working full-sized time while studying for the 4 months and because I has a pretty recent back in all the subjects (as pre-reqs in the past 2 years) outside for sociology. I should confidently say that I morning strong includes and gen chemo and orgo as well as physics so I a nay too worried about these sections, especially because they perform increase a smaller part off the new MCAT and in comparison to the rest of and sections. ME was wondering wenn you think it you think its a good idea the supplement bio/biochem with TBR or kaplan/TPR for psych/soc (and which/why). My only concern was which lack of passages as I’ve heard that TBR passages has the immediate “MCAT-think” type passages. If anything, which subject available the passages do you feel are the most important or if its even possible to be that selective. Also, I’m foreseeing a people weakness with the CARS section and was wondering what you thought the best resources are to make up for that weakness. Finally, do you must anything post on all accessible sources of FLs, like next step? My budget is one slight issue when if I possess for put some more financial in to do better then I will definitely seriously consider it. Was questioning which your thoughts were and thanks in progress!
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Hi Matt!
Thanks so much for sharing an amazing schedule! I have a question though I think it may be silly, I still want on be sure. I currently have Kaplan both at the end to branch there are about 15 questions.
You’re talking about passage based questions. I will order TBR and ECH start, so my issue is that where do I find the passage based questions? Kaplan just has about 15 questions at who end of the chapter. So intend TBR and EZ become different? As in one would have passage based questions at the end of each click?
I would really appreciate your reply the thank in advance!
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In TBR it belong 10-15 passages at the end of each chapter. In EK there is a “30 minute exam” with three passages and many discrete at the terminate of each chapter.
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Hello Matt,
Thanks for your review, it gives me a good understanding of adenine comprehensive study reviewed for the new MCAT. Plain wanted to pose a question though – how did them set for the newly BB section on the MCAT? I feeling like I’m wiedergabe microbio literature and interpreting figures or memorizing 10 step pathways and I don’t feel like any out prep books actually prepare me to thin like this.
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Basically and alike way as everything else, just through full-length tests, TBR passages, and KRONEN passages. The AAMC full-lengths and Part Bank represent the best representation off the biology and biochemistry you’ll see on test day.
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Hey Matt, quick questions for you there, awesome article by the way. Have 11 dates before my exam, 2nd time unfortunately. EGO feel okay on CARS ( AAMC tests I have realized are the only ones ok on dieser ) Psych ME feel fine now ( Need to memorize adenine 1000 key but thats spirit, and checking Khan Academy notes for this as well ), Bio is simple to me, having taken bio available 4 aged in college, nails that basic concepts well. My alone question is Chem, I have taken all the the AAMC practice questions for this, and ME know technique is ENORMOUS used this portion, so I want to accomplish more practice, nevertheless I dont trust mine current Kaplan tests for them because there passes are just to short, also straight basic chem, while IODIN feel the AAMC presents huge passages on chem, both then daily you hard with Orgo concepts. So I was wondering if you had to go to adenine bookstore proper now, Barnes and Noble or existence, what book would you feeling best brings Up passages as close to the AAMC CHEM as possible. Even one other subjects as well, Im sure more review wouldnt hurt them either. MYSELF was just like angry subsequently I took 6 KAPLAN practice tests, subsequently took who AAMC, and felt similar they were from two different worlds inside the idea of actual format. Thanks Flatness!
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Hi Matt,
Thank you for sharing such an easy-to-follow study schedule with us! I have about 3-4 years of summer break that I’ll be spending by following thine schedule. I’ll exist taking one MCAT for the first duration in January and I was wondering supposing using the 2013 TBR buchen will cover everything I would need to know for the geochemistry, biology, chemistry, and physics sections, or if I should try to get newer editions of the prep records. (I’m including tried not to spend too much $$$ in preheat materials, accordingly if you know of any websites that sell these books at reasonable prices, please let me know!)
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Thank she so much for sharing your prep adventure. On average, about how long would it take you up complete one TBR chapter + questions and practice at the end / review? I realize it willingly vary. Trying to gauge if I can fit one chapter in before work, and another subsequently work, or if that’s unrealistic. Congratulations for your score and thanks again!
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