Everything you need to know about the Kaplan MCAT prep books
Kaplan MCAT prep books are one of the most popular study resources for aspiring medical students, but knowing how to use them effectively can make all the difference to your score. They are renowned for their comprehensive content, practice questions, and test-taking strategies that cater to a variety of learning styles. In this guide, we break down the Kaplan MCAT books chapter-by-chapter, show you the best order to read them, and share study schedules that fit your timeline. Whether you’re starting fresh or using them alongside a course, you’ll learn how to turn the complete 7-book set into a structured, high-yield prep plan for 2025.
Kaplan offers a total of seven MCAT prep books. Each book is designed to provide in-depth coverage of the topics, practice questions, and test-taking strategies specific to that subject area.
Together, these seven books form a complete study package to help you excel on the MCAT.
Kaplan MCAT Book Set
Kaplan’s MCAT prep series consists of seven comprehensive books, each focusing on a specific subject area critical to the exam:
Biology: This book covers molecular and cellular biology, genetics, and the structure and function of systems, providing detailed explanations and practice questions to reinforce learning.
Biochemistry: Focuses on the biochemical processes and pathways essential for understanding metabolism and molecular biology, with emphasis on enzyme function and regulation.
General Chemistry: Reviews fundamental concepts such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, and thermodynamics, offering practice problems to master these topics.
Organic Chemistry: Explains the principles of organic reactions, mechanisms, and molecular structure, with plenty of practice questions to enhance understanding.
Physics and Math: Combines key physics principles like mechanics, electricity, and magnetism with essential math skills needed for problem-solving on the MCAT.
Behavioral Sciences: Covers psychology and sociology topics, including behavioral theories, mental health, and social processes, crucial for the Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior section.
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS): Provides strategies and practice for the CARS section, focusing on reading comprehension, analytical skills, and critical thinking necessary for analyzing complex texts.
The Kaplan MCAT prep books vary in the number of chapters, with each book tailored to cover its subject comprehensively.
On average, each book contains around 12 to 15 chapters, ensuring in-depth coverage of all essential topics.
Example MCAT practice question from Kaplan
The Biology and Biochemistry books tend to have more chapters due to the extensive material they need to cover. Each chapter is designed to provide detailed explanations, practice questions, and review exercises to solidify understanding and test readiness.
Overall, the books are structured to facilitate a thorough and systematic approach to MCAT preparation.
Kaplan MCAT books chapter breakdown
Kaplan’s MCAT Complete 7-Book Subject Review covers every exam topic in a structured chapter sequence. Physics and chemistry volumes average 12–14 chapters each, biology has 10–12, and the behavioural sciences book includes 9 chapters. Working through chapters in the order Kaplan presents them helps build a strong content foundation before moving to practice passages.
How To Use Kaplan MCAT Prep Books
Students often wonder how to structure their prep with the Kaplan book series. A common approach is to follow the built in study schedule in the books, starting with high yield biology and chemistry before moving to psychology, sociology, and CARS. Pairing reading with practice questions after each chapter helps reinforce content.
Which Kaplan MCAT book should you start with?
If your science knowledge is uneven, start with the book that covers your weakest subject. Many students begin with biology or biochemistry before tackling physics and organic chemistry. Those with a solid science base might start with the behavioural sciences book to boost CARS-style reasoning skills early.
MCAT Study Schedule Using Kaplan Books
An ideal MCAT study schedule using Kaplan books involves a structured and consistent approach over several months. Begin by allocating at least 12 weeks, dedicating 2-3 hours each weekday and additional time on weekends for thorough review.
Start with the core subjects, spending 2-3 weeks on each book: Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Physics, integrating Biochemistry and Behavioral Sciences throughout.
Kaplan MCAT study plan
Reserve the last few weeks for intensive practice with the Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) book, and take full-length practice tests to simulate the exam environment and gauge your readiness. Regularly review challenging topics and adjust your schedule as needed to ensure comprehensive coverage and confidence in all areas.
In addition to using Kaplan’s MCAT prep books, we recommend purchasing a Kaplan MCAT prep course to enhance your preparation. Their courses offer structured guidance, expert instruction, and interactive learning tools that can help clarify complex topics and provide personalized feedback. These resources, combined with the extensive practice materials and support from experienced tutors, can significantly boost your confidence and readiness for the exam.
Kaplan MCAT Study Plans And Schedules
Kaplan provides suggested study plans, including three month and six month options. These schedules break down what to cover each week across the seven book set, helping you pace yourself for the exam.
Kaplan MCAT vs Other MCAT Books
Kaplan’s books are known for detail and structure, but some students prefer supplementing with Examkrackers or Princeton Review for alternative explanations and additional practice questions.
Create a Study Schedule: Develop a detailed study plan that outlines which chapters to cover each day, ensuring balanced progress through all subjects. Stick to this schedule to maintain consistent study habits and avoid last-minute cramming.
Utilize Practice Questions: Take advantage of the practice questions at the end of each chapter to test your understanding and reinforce key concepts. Review your answers thoroughly to identify and address any weaknesses.
Integrate Active Learning: Engage in active learning techniques such as summarizing chapters in your own words, creating flashcards for important terms and concepts, and teaching the material to a study partner.
Mix Up Subjects: Alternate between different subjects to prevent burnout and enhance retention. For example, study Biology one day and switch to Organic Chemistry the next to keep your brain engaged and versatile.
Review Regularly: Schedule regular review sessions to revisit previously covered material. This spaced repetition will help reinforce your memory and ensure that earlier topics remain fresh as you progress through the books.
Take Full-Length Practice Exams: Periodically take full-length Kaplan practice exams under timed conditions to simulate the test day experience. This will help you build stamina, identify areas needing improvement, and develop effective test-taking strategies.
By following these tips, you’ll maximize the benefits of Kaplan’s resources and be well-prepared for the MCAT.
FAQ
What is the Kaplan MCAT book set?
The Kaplan MCAT book set is a seven volume series covering all sections of the exam. It includes content review, practice questions, and access to online resources.
How Much Do The Kaplan MCAT Books Cost?
The Kaplan MCAT prep books typically cost around $275 for the complete seven-book set. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any available discounts or promotions.
Are The Kaplan MCAT Books Good?
Yes, the Kaplan MCAT books are highly regarded for their comprehensive coverage, detailed explanations, and effective practice questions. Many students find them invaluable for building a strong foundation and achieving high scores on the MCAT.
How many chapters are in the Kaplan MCAT books?
Most Kaplan MCAT books have between 9 and 14 chapters, depending on the subject. The total across the set is about 70 chapters.
In what order should I read the Kaplan MCAT books?
Follow the sequence Kaplan provides, or start with your weakest subject to build confidence before tackling stronger areas.
How should I use Kaplan MCAT prep books?
Follow the study schedule provided in the books. Start with high yield science sections like biology and chemistry, then move on to psychology, sociology, and CARS. Review chapters and complete practice questions immediately after reading.
Does Kaplan provide an MCAT study plan?
Yes. Kaplan includes three month and six month study plans in the book set. These plans guide you through daily and weekly goals, helping you cover all content before test day.
