<p>I am currently a sophomore and I just took my first practice MCAT. I know that when I take the actual one it will be the new format so I don't know how much I can really tell from a practice of the old exam in how much work I should do to prepare. I plan to take the MCAT for real the end of my junior year. Anyway, on the practice exam I got a 9 on both the verbal reasoning and the Biological sciences section and an 11 on the physical science section for an overall score of 29. Is this a good place to be before I start studying or should I start considering taking a class to improve my score. Thanks for any advice on how best to go forward!</p>
<p>If you took the free sample MCAT offered by AMCAS, you need to be aware that it tends to give higher than expected scores. (IOW, it’s easier than the real thing.) </p>
<p>You can study on your own or you can take a class–whichever method work better for you. Some people like the discipline that a class imposes; others hate studying on schedule.</p>
<p>It’s probably too early to start seriously studying for the MCAT–you’ll burn out before you get around to taking it.</p>
<p>The best way to improve your verbal score is to read, read and read some more. Concentrate on reading material is factually complex but not necessarily difficult. (And not just science topics.)</p>