Best DAT Prep Books

Preparing for the DAT is not easy.

It's like a war. You need to have the necessary tools to win the battle.

Well, maybe I exaggerated a bit there. But you get what I mean.

In this article I will review best DAT prep books that you can buy today.

Here's a quick summary of our top picks:

• DAT Destroyer: Best for challenging, exam-level practice problems that build confidence for the real DAT.
• Kaplan DAT Prep Plus: Best for comprehensive content review with full-length online practice exams.
• Princeton Review DAT Prep: Best for in-depth, detailed content coverage with visual aids and diagrams.
• Barron's DAT: Best for budget-conscious students who need a concise yet thorough review.
• Mometrix DAT: Best for high-yield, no-fluff review with online video tutorials.

Best DAT Prep Books In 2026

1. DAT Destroyer

If you ask any pre-dental student community which DAT prep book they recommend, DAT Destroyer by Dr. Jim Romano will almost always top the list. It's trusted by over 100,000 students and is considered the gold standard for DAT science prep.

The 2026 DAT Destroyer costs $189.95 and comes in a spiral-bound format, making it easy to lay flat while you study.

The book contains 2,324+ practice problems broken down as follows: Biology (989), General Chemistry (626), Organic Chemistry (557), and Quantitative Reasoning (152). Each problem comes with detailed, step-by-step solutions.

What makes DAT Destroyer unique is that the questions are intentionally harder than the real DAT. The idea is simple: if you can handle Destroyer-level questions, the actual exam will feel manageable. Many students report scoring significantly higher on the real DAT than they did while practicing with Destroyer.

The book is updated annually to reflect current DAT exam patterns, and the 2026 edition includes the latest content adaptations.

Dr. Romano also offers companion books: Math Destroyer ($109) for dedicated quantitative reasoning practice, and subject-specific guides for Organic Chemistry ($129.95) and General Chemistry ($129.99).

Pros

• The most recommended DAT prep book in pre-dental communities.
• 2,324+ challenging, high-yield practice problems with detailed solutions.
• Updated annually to match current DAT patterns.
• Harder than the real DAT, which builds confidence and thorough preparation.
• Spiral-bound format lays flat for easy studying.

Cons

• No full-length practice exams included.
• No video content — purely a question-and-answer book.
• At $189.95, it's the most expensive single DAT prep book.

2. Kaplan DAT Prep Plus, Fifteenth Edition (2026)

Kaplan is always way ahead of its competitors when it comes to test prep materials.

The numerous positive student reviews on the internet speak to why Kaplan still holds the "leader of review books" title.

Therefore, it isn't surprising to mention their DAT guide as one of the best in the current marketplace.

The package comes with a comprehensive review of all essential sections that you need to know before your DAT exam.

The current edition is the Fifteenth Edition (2026), with ISBN 9781506290065. The list price is $89.99 (Paperback), though Amazon and other retailers may offer discounts.

I particularly love their excellent exam-taking strategies which seek to boost your confidence during exams, as well as give you tips on how to answer questions accurately.

This prep book comes with 2 full-length online practice exams, which will give you an exam-like experience so that you know which areas need more practice.

You will also receive a study guide with the package, complete with 12-page full-color study sheets for easy review on the go.

There are also 600+ practice questions at the end of each subject, and they come with an explanation for answers.

Plus, their DAT blueprint guide comes in handy to inform you what to expect on exam day.

This prep book is 928 pages long, which I find sufficient to cover everything you need to know. There's also a Kindle option.

Pros

• Comprehensive subject review reflecting the latest DAT blueprint.
• 2 full-length online practice exams.
• 12-page full-color study sheets for quick review.
• 600+ practice questions with detailed explanations.
• Flexible learning style with both book and online access.

Cons

• At $89.99 list price, it's on the pricier side for a prep book.
• Practice questions may feel less challenging than the actual DAT compared to Destroyer.

3. Princeton Review DAT Prep, 3rd Edition

Like Kaplan, The Princeton Review (TPR) is a giant in the test review industry.

The brand is famous for producing top-notch study content, and the 3rd Edition of Princeton Review DAT Prep (ISBN 9780593517413, published 2023) is no different.

This book covers everything that you need to know before the exam day.

The best part is that the guide gives you a unique experience with its simple display of details.

So, if you don't like the comprehensiveness of textbooks, then this book will be a perfect match.

Besides, you also get to benefit from the numerous illustrations, diagrams, and tables, which makes it easy for you to master concepts.

I also find their full-color tear-out reference guide quite impressive, especially when you desire a quick review.

Plus, there are numerous test-taking strategies and step-by-step problem-solving guides to help you improve your score, complete with multiple drills and practice questions.

The two full-length practice tests (online, with detailed answer explanations) give you an exam-like feel, to prepare for what awaits you in the actual test. The book also includes online extras including drills, glossaries by section, and key terms lists.

At 960 pages, this is the most comprehensive DAT prep book by page count, and will cost you around $57–$76 depending on the retailer.

Pros

• In-depth review of all DAT subjects (biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and math).
• Full-color tear-out reference guide for quick review.
• Step-by-step explanations for question answers.
• 2 full-length online practice tests with detailed explanations.
• 960 pages of comprehensive content.

Cons

• Some reports of errors in practice questions.
• More expensive than Barron's and Mometrix options.

4. Barron's DAT: Dental Admissions Test, 3rd Edition

This Barron's DAT prep book (ISBN 9781438006345) might not be the most famous, but it's worth a mention thanks to its outstanding quality at $49.99 (Paperback).

It's one of the more affordable comprehensive DAT prep books and contains all the necessary information you need to prepare for the exam.

However, you would want to pair it with another resource like DAT Destroyer for optimum results.

With its 500 pages, the book is quite short compared to Kaplan or Princeton Review, but I love the way it condenses content to give a holistic review.

And because of this, it's ideal for individuals who have less time to prepare for the DAT exam.

With this package, you find three full-length practice tests, one of them being a diagnostic test, which comes in handy to help you sharpen your skills in necessary sections.

As you take questions, you will also receive well-explained answers pointing out the thin line between right and wrong answers.

Plus, you benefit from video tutorials from the expert authors (available online), which helps in retaining information.

There's also an additional full-length online DAT test, which can be accessed via smartphone, tablet, and computer.

Pros

• Affordable at $49.99.
• High-quality material with thorough general coverage.
• 3 full-length tests (including 1 diagnostic exam) plus an additional online test.
• Online video tutorials from expert authors.
• Accessible online test works on smartphone, tablet, and computer.

Cons

• Published in 2018, so some content may not reflect the latest DAT changes.
• Reports of some incorrect information.
• At 500 pages, less comprehensive than Kaplan or Princeton Review.

5. Mometrix DAT Prep Book

If you're searching for a DAT prep guide with precise summaries highlighting key areas of study concerning the DAT testing patterns, then the Mometrix DAT Prep Book makes a perfect pick.

The latest available edition is the 6th Edition (2024-2025) (ISBN 9781516724593), with a newer 2026-2027 edition (ISBN 9781516729876) also available. Pricing is typically $40–$72 depending on the format and retailer.

The book offers a well-detailed review of all critical areas of the DAT.

As long as you use it effectively and combine it with any other material of your choice, you will be ready to crack the test.

A standout feature of the Mometrix guide is the inclusion of 75+ online video tutorials where instructors break down concepts step-by-step, making it much easier to grasp difficult topics. The book also includes a full-length practice test with detailed answer explanations.

The guide covers all DAT sections: Perceptual Ability, Reading Comprehension, Quantitative Reasoning, Biology, General Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry.

You will also benefit from the expert analysis of the physical sciences and excellent breakdown of the biological sciences.

It is on the shorter side compared to Kaplan or Princeton Review, so it isn't ideal for students searching for exhaustive topic overviews. However, the conciseness can be a strength — it focuses only on high-yield content without fluff.

Pros

• Concise, high-yield content without unnecessary fluff.
• 75+ online video tutorials for visual learners.
• Full-length practice test with detailed explanations.
• Fantastic tips on knowledge application to answer various questions.
• Updated regularly with new editions.

Cons

• More condensed than Kaplan or Princeton Review — general concept review rather than exhaustive coverage.
• Best used as a supplement alongside a more comprehensive resource.

Best DAT Flashcards

DAT Mometrix Flashcard Study System

Preparing for the DAT exam requires a lot of sacrifice and dedication, which means every second of your time matters.

Therefore, if you're always on the move and your tight schedule can't allow you to dedicate several hours for study, then the DAT flashcards come in handy.

They will help you gain a quick review of various vital sections of the exam anywhere you want and at whatever time you please.

With these flashcards, repetitive learning becomes a norm, and that means you get to master concepts pretty fast.

I also love the fact that the flashcards allow you to study with a friend as they get to ask the questions, and you give the answers using the cards as a reference.

These flashcards present precise information and invaluable bits to help you gain exposure to various questions.

Plus, they're large enough to fit into your hands, and the font is large enough, so you won't struggle reading.

Pros

• Clear and straight to the point.
• Easy to carry around.
• Contains enough useful content.
• Detailed answers to the questions.

Cons

• Doesn't come with a card holder.

Best DAT Practice Questions Books

1. Sterling Test Prep DAT Organic Chemistry Practice Questions

If you're searching for a supplementary prep book that will help you boost your strengths in organic chem, the Sterling Test Prep DAT Organic Chemistry Practice Questions makes a perfect choice.

The book provides comprehensive coverage of questions, most of which appear on the Survey of the Natural Sciences section in the actual DAT exam.

Most students confess to loving the fact that this book comes with well-explained answers to questions, complete with numerous strategies on how to crack the DAT exam.

The package comes with 720 high-yield practice questions, which I find quite sufficient for adequate preparation.

Also, to show confidence in its products, the brand offers a money-back guarantee on a higher score.

Pros

• Moderately tricky questions for an understanding of the real DAT patterns.
• Thorough explanations of each answer.
• Excellent addition for extra organic chem practice.
• Applicable DAT test-taking strategies.

Cons

• A few errors reported in some sections.

2. Sterling DAT Biology Practice Questions

Sterling DAT Biology Practice Questions book comes with an enormous 1,500 practice questions to help you prepare for your Biology test.

The questions are well-structured and straight to the point, making it easy to understand various concepts.

You will also love their nature of organization.

The book is divided into 24 chapters, each with comprehensive coverage of all the critical questions that appear in the Biology area.

I find the detailed explanations to answers quite outstanding. They will help you understand why specific answers are wrong, no matter how correct they seem.

There's also a review of foundations, and you also get a money-back guarantee on a higher score.

Pros

• 1,500 practice questions with detailed explanations.
• Intense preparation for the Biology section.
• Affordable.
• Simple language.

Cons

• Reports of some errors/typos.
• Some repetition of questions.

3. Sterling Test Prep DAT General Chemistry Review

Sterling Test Prep continues its strong showing with its DAT General Chemistry review.

This General Chemistry review focuses on comprehensively covering all the necessary topics featured in the DAT exam.

With this copy, you will learn the fundamental principles and concepts of general chem.

The information is presented in a simplistic and yet detailed manner, which you will not find elsewhere.

There are also some remarkable test-taking strategies in the book, which will come in handy to help you curb exam anxiety and provide you with the correct test-handling tips.

Also, the detailed nature of the answers to the various questions is impressive. It provides you with the skills to give smart answers to questions and avoid being wrong.

Pros

• Money-back guarantee on higher score.
• Prepared by expert chemistry instructors.
• In-depth coverage of all crucial topics.
• Well-explained answers to questions.
• Amazing exam-taking strategies.

Cons

• A few reports of typos.

How To Choose The Right DAT Prep Book

Passing the DAT test requires you to work smart.

Remember, hundreds of other students will also be taking the test, and so you have to earn your place in that dental school of your choice.

Obviously, you already know you've to study (no shortcut around it). But do you have the right materials?

And by this, I don't mean any test prep resource you come across and decide to purchase because you see the name DAT on it.

Whatever resources you choose to use in your preparations will, in a significant way, affect your performance.

Some books are better than others, not only in terms of explanations but also the simplicity of concept presentation.

So, here are some top tips on how to choose the right DAT prep books.

a) Must Contain Practice Questions/Tests

You can't say to have made sufficient progress without weighing yourself. And when it comes to studying for the DAT exam, it means taking practice questions every now and then.

So, when choosing a revision material, ensure it contains multiple questions at least at the end of each sub-section.

This way, you can identify all areas of difficulty and deal with them in good time.

When you move to the next chapter/topic, it should be because you've fully exhausted the contents of the previous ones and can comfortably answer any question regarding it.

Some materials come with extra full-length tests, use them to predict your actual exam score, and examine your time management skills.

For best results, ensure to take in one sitting, just as you would do during the test, and see how good you can hack it.

b) Should Include Detailed Explanations

When I speak of explanations, I am referring to all the general content, the questions, and, of course, the answers.

You see, it isn't uncommon to come across questions with similar answers.

These questions are usually very tricky and can either affect your results negatively or positively, depending on how you handle them.

When you find a study material that can clearly explain the differences between these similar answers, then you can open your eyes to the tiny yet essential aspects that you have been ignoring.

This will help you handle similar problems accurately during the actual test.

c) Error-Free

Although it's quite rare to come across review materials that are 100% error/typo-free( from experience), you can at least go the minimalist.

The last thing you want is to get confused in the middle of your studies, simply because the editors don't do their job well.

You're spending your money, so it's only right that you get value for it.

So, don't settle for less. Aim for the best, and that includes paying for an error-free resource with accurate information.

d) Good Structure

Excellent organizational skills are attractive. When a book is well structured, arranged, and simple, you get psyched-up to learn.

Also, correctly organized content makes it easy for you to locate various relevant information, which comes in handy, especially when running short of preparation time.

Focusing on specific areas also becomes easy.

e) Great Pricing

Although pricing isn't always a determinant of quality materials, it does play a role in the extensiveness of the content.

So, it's advisable to choose a test preparation material that's affordable, but not overly cheap.

And if you've enough cash to spend, then don't hold yourself from investing invaluable resources.

FAQs About the Best DAT Prep Books

How much do DAT prep books cost?

DAT prep books range from about $40 to $190. Budget options like Mometrix start around $40, mid-range books like Barron's ($49.99), Princeton Review ($57–$76), and Kaplan ($89.99) offer comprehensive reviews, while DAT Destroyer ($189.95) is the premium option with the most practice problems.

Is the DAT Exam Hard?

Any standardized medical test has some level of difficulty. The DAT includes substantial biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, quantitative reasoning, reading comprehension, and perceptual ability sections.

Therefore, what matters is the effort you put into your studies. Using challenging prep materials like DAT Destroyer can help ensure you're over-prepared for the real exam.

Is Kaplan DAT Book Good?

The Kaplan DAT book is undoubtedly useful. The Fifteenth Edition (2026) comprehensively covers all essential topics with 600+ practice questions and 2 full-length exams.

If you're a budget-conscious student, you can use it alone or pair it with DAT Destroyer for additional practice, and you will be well-equipped to face the exam.

Is DAT Destroyer Worth It?

DAT Destroyer is widely considered the most valuable DAT prep book available. Its 2,324+ practice problems are intentionally harder than the real DAT, which builds confidence and thorough preparation. Most pre-dental communities on Reddit and Student Doctor Network rank it as a must-have resource.

Conclusion

From the above list of best DAT prep books and the advice on how to choose the right study materials, we hope you're now well equipped to shop for the best test prep resources.

Remember, not to compare yourself with anyone — what works for them might not necessarily work for you.

For the best results, consider combining a prep book like DAT Destroyer or Kaplan with an online prep course like DAT Bootcamp or DAT Booster for comprehensive preparation.

Now, go out there and crack that "monster!"