What is the best way to prepare for the MCAT?
It all comes down to doing tons and tons of passages and questions, and then thoroughly reviewing them afterwards. You need to develop science logic, speed, and test-taking skills. This can only be done by exposure to plenty of questions. Start by using the best preparation materials available. SDN is a great place to get a feel for what materials are strong in what areas. The best MCAT review course depends on what you need. They vary from location to location, so try to sit in on all possible classes before signing up, and see what they have to offer. Generally speaking, smaller courses that only do MCAT (like Berkeley Review) have the best teaching. But, they only cover a limited area. You likely live in an area where Kaplan and Princeton Review are your only choices. The course with the better teaching will change session to session, so ask locally. Kaplan has 54 hours of LIVE instruction while Princeton Review offers 102.5 hours of LIVE instruction.
Both self-study and preparation courses are effective though each has their pros and cons. A test prep course gives you copious review materials and practice exams as well as a lot of structure. However, the price is high, sometimes topping off at $2,000. Self-study is less expensive and many good review books and practice exams are available at bookstores and through on-line booksellers. Note that this approach requires self-discipline. If you opt for self-study, consider forming a study group though be sure that your partners are self-motivated, reliable, and dedicated!
