The 7 Best MCAT Formula Sheet Resources for 2025

The MCAT is a marathon of critical thinking, but at its core, a significant portion relies on your ability to recall, understand, and apply key scientific formulas. From calculating the velocity of a projectile in physics to determining pH in a chemical solution, quantitative reasoning is non-negotiable. Simply memorizing a disorganized list of equations is a recipe for disaster. The real key to a top score lies in how you approach your MCAT formula sheet-not as a rote list, but as a strategic toolkit.

A well-organized, high-yield formula sheet serves as the backbone of your C/P and B/B section preparation, bridging the gap between conceptual knowledge and application under pressure. It's about more than just memorization; it's about building a framework for problem-solving that becomes second nature on test day. This ensures you can quickly identify the necessary equation, plug in the right variables, and solve accurately without wasting precious time.

In this guide, we'll break down the 7 best MCAT formula sheet resources available, from official AAMC materials to community-curated guides. We will analyze their strengths, weaknesses, and how to integrate them into your study plan to transform formulas from a source of anxiety into a source of points.

1. Kaplan MCAT Formula Sheet

The Kaplan MCAT Formula Sheet is a cornerstone resource for thousands of pre-med students annually. It's not just a list of equations; it's a comprehensive guide integrated into Kaplan's renowned MCAT prep courses and books. This sheet stands out because it covers the full spectrum of quantitative reasoning required for the exam, including physics, general chemistry, and biochemistry.

What makes the Kaplan sheet particularly effective is its emphasis on understanding. Rather than encouraging rote memorization, it often includes formula derivations and conceptual explanations. This approach helps you grasp why a formula works, making it easier to apply correctly to unfamiliar problems on test day, a skill that consistently correlates with higher scores.

Why It's a Top Choice

The Kaplan method is built on a foundation of extensive research into the MCAT's content and structure. Medical school admissions counselors recognize its alignment with AAMC standards, and students frequently report significant score improvements after using their materials. This formula sheet is a key component of that success, providing a structured and reliable reference throughout your preparation. For an effective study plan that incorporates this resource, check out this guide to building a comprehensive MCAT study schedule.

The following infographic highlights the key features of the Kaplan MCAT Formula Sheet, summarizing its subject coverage, core features, and access formats.

As the summary shows, the resource's value lies in its comprehensive coverage and its focus on conceptual understanding, available in both digital and print formats for flexible studying.

How to Use It Effectively

To maximize the benefits of the Kaplan MCAT Formula Sheet, follow these actionable tips:

• Active Application: Use the sheet alongside Kaplan's extensive question banks. When you encounter a problem, try to solve it first, then refer to the sheet to check the formula and review its derivation.
• Focus on Concepts: Pay close attention to the explanations behind the equations. Understanding the relationships between variables is more valuable than memorizing symbols.
• Create a "High-Yield" Version: As you progress, create your own condensed formula sheet. Transfer only the formulas you consistently struggle with or find most essential. This personalizes your review and aids long-term retention.
• Immediate Review: After completing a practice section or exam, immediately review every formula you used or should have used. This reinforces the connections between question types and the necessary equations.

2. Princeton Review MCAT Formula Sheet

The Princeton Review MCAT Formula Sheet is a highly-regarded resource designed for efficiency and impact. As a core component of The Princeton Review's comprehensive MCAT courses, this sheet is engineered to highlight the most frequently tested equations across physics, general chemistry, and biochemistry. Its primary strength lies in its streamlined, high-yield approach, which helps students focus their limited study time on the formulas most likely to appear on exam day.

Unlike resources that aim for exhaustive coverage, The Princeton Review's guide is curated for practical application. It often categorizes formulas by their testing frequency, allowing students to prioritize their memorization efforts effectively. This focused strategy is designed to build confidence and reduce cognitive load, ensuring you can quickly recall and apply the most critical equations under pressure.

Why It's a Top Choice

Endorsed by pre-med advisors at many top universities, The Princeton Review has a proven track record of helping students achieve significant score improvements. Students using their complete program report an average score increase of 8-12 points, and this success is partly attributable to the strategic value of their mcat formula sheet. It’s not just a list; it’s a tactical tool that aligns directly with the AAMC's testing patterns, making it an indispensable asset for any serious pre-med student.

This sheet's emphasis on high-frequency formulas ensures that your study efforts are concentrated where they matter most. By mastering this curated list, you are preparing specifically for the quantitative challenges that appear most often on the official MCAT.

How to Use It Effectively

To get the most out of The Princeton Review MCAT Formula Sheet, integrate these strategies into your study plan:

• Prioritize High-Frequency Formulas: Identify and focus on the formulas explicitly marked as "high-frequency" or most common. Master these first before moving on to less common equations.
• Pair with Diagnostic Tests: Use the formula sheet while working through The Princeton Review's diagnostic tests. This practice simulates test-day conditions and helps you connect specific question types to their corresponding formulas.
• Practice Derivations: For key physics formulas, take the time to practice their derivations. This deepens your conceptual understanding and makes it easier to adapt the formula to novel problem scenarios.
• Intensive Final Review: Implement a two-week intensive review schedule before your test date. During this period, drill the entire formula sheet daily to solidify your recall and ensure every equation is fresh in your mind.

3. AAMC Official MCAT Formula Reference

The AAMC Official MCAT Formula Reference is arguably the most crucial document for any test-taker because it is the exact list of formulas and constants provided during the actual MCAT exam. This is not a study guide but the definitive, authoritative reference directly from the Association of American Medical Colleges. It represents the baseline of what you are given on test day, making it an essential tool for strategic preparation.

Unlike comprehensive study sheets from prep companies, the AAMC's version is intentionally sparse. Its primary value lies in clarifying what you do not need to commit to memory, freeing up valuable cognitive resources for formulas you must know by heart. Every major MCAT prep company and medical school admissions office recognizes this document as the official standard.

Why It's a Top Choice

The AAMC Official MCAT Formula Reference is the gold standard because it eliminates all guesswork about test-day resources. By familiarizing yourself with this exact document, you build confidence and reduce cognitive load during the high-pressure exam. Knowing precisely where to find a specific constant or formula without hesitation can save precious seconds on each question in the C/P and B/B sections.

This reference is a core component of all official AAMC practice materials, including the full-length exams. Consistent use ensures you simulate the real testing environment accurately, which is a proven method for improving performance. Its direct authority from the test makers makes it an indispensable part of any serious MCAT study plan.

How to Use It Effectively

To leverage the AAMC reference for maximum advantage, integrate it strategically into your study routine:

• Identify Gaps: Compare the AAMC sheet to your primary study sheet (like Kaplan's or Princeton Review's). Any formula on your study sheet that is not on the AAMC reference must be memorized.
• Simulate Test Conditions: Use only this official reference sheet when taking any full-length practice exams, especially the official AAMC ones. This trains you to work within the real-world constraints of the test.
• Familiarize Yourself with Layout: Don't just read the formulas; study the layout. Know exactly where the physics equations are versus the chemistry constants. This muscle memory prevents you from wasting time searching during the exam.
• Practice with the Provided Format: The AAMC sheet uses specific symbols and notations. Ensure you are comfortable with its presentation to avoid any confusion or misinterpretation on test day.

4. Khan Academy MCAT Formula Collection

The Khan Academy MCAT Formula Collection is a standout resource, primarily because it's completely free and directly integrated with a vast library of instructional videos. Developed in partnership with the AAMC and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this collection is designed to make high-quality test prep accessible to everyone. The formulas aren't just listed; they are woven into video lessons that explain the underlying concepts in detail.

What makes the Khan Academy approach so powerful is its focus on visual and auditory learning. Each formula is broken down by subject matter experts, often with step-by-step derivations and example problems worked out on a digital whiteboard. This method helps demystify complex equations, transforming them from abstract symbols into practical tools for problem-solving. It’s an ideal resource for students who learn best by watching and listening.

Why It's a Top Choice

Endorsed by the AAMC itself, the Khan Academy collection carries a unique seal of approval. Millions of students have leveraged this free content, and it's frequently recommended by pre-med advisors at universities nationwide. Its success stems from its ability to provide a solid conceptual foundation, which is crucial for tackling the critical thinking required on the MCAT. If you're looking for strategies to build on this foundation, you can learn more about how to improve your MCAT score here.

The following video from Khan Academy's MCAT collection demonstrates their teaching style, focusing on a foundational physics concept and its associated formulas.

This video is a great example of how Khan Academy integrates formula explanation with conceptual teaching to prepare you for the exam.

How to Use It Effectively

To get the most value from the Khan Academy MCAT formula resources, follow these targeted strategies:

• Integrate with Practice: Immediately after watching a video lesson on a specific formula or concept, complete the associated practice problems on the Khan Academy platform. This reinforces the connection between theory and application.
• Active Note-Taking: While watching the videos, create your own summary sheets. Pause the video to write down the formula, its variables, units, and a brief conceptual explanation in your own words.
• Rewatch for Clarity: Don't hesitate to watch videos on complex topics like fluid dynamics or electromagnetism multiple times. The ability to pause and rewind is a key advantage for mastering difficult derivations.
• Supplement with Diverse Questions: While Khan Academy's problems are excellent for conceptual understanding, supplement your practice with AAMC official materials or other question banks to experience a wider variety of question styles and difficulties.

5. Examkrackers MCAT Formula Sheet

The Examkrackers MCAT Formula Sheet embodies a philosophy of minimalism and deep conceptual mastery. Rather than presenting an exhaustive list, Examkrackers, led by founder Jonathan Orsay, provides a highly condensed reference focusing only on the most essential, non-derivable equations. This resource is integrated into their unique prep method, which trains students to derive secondary formulas on the fly from foundational principles.

This "less is more" strategy is designed to build true scientific intuition instead of reliance on rote memorization. It challenges you to understand the relationships between physical and chemical variables so deeply that you can reconstruct equations under pressure. This approach is particularly effective for students who already have a strong grasp of fundamental science concepts and are aiming to develop superior problem-solving speed and flexibility.

Why It's a Top Choice

The Examkrackers methodology has a strong reputation among students with solid STEM backgrounds and those aiming for the highest MCAT scores. Its success is rooted in promoting a level of understanding that transcends simple recall, a skill that is invaluable for the critical thinking required in medical school. Many physics and chemistry professors recommend this approach because it mirrors how experts solve complex problems: by reasoning from first principles.

This method forces a more active and engaged study process. The Examkrackers MCAT formula sheet is not just a reference; it is a tool for intellectual training, preparing you for the unpredictable nature of the official exam.

How to Use It Effectively

To leverage the Examkrackers sheet, you must embrace its underlying philosophy. Follow these specific tips for optimal results:

• Master Derivations: Your primary task is to practice deriving related formulas from the core equations provided. For instance, from F=ma, you should be able to derive equations for work, power, and momentum.
• Timed Derivation Drills: Simulate test-day conditions by setting a timer and deriving a set of formulas from a single core principle. This builds both speed and confidence, ensuring you don’t waste precious minutes on the exam.
• Practice with Purpose: Use the sheet alongside the famously challenging Examkrackers practice problems. Their questions are specifically designed to test your ability to apply and manipulate core concepts, not just plug numbers into a remembered formula.
• Supplement Biochemistry: Since the Examkrackers focus is heavily on physics and general chemistry derivations, consider supplementing with a more detailed list of biochemistry pathways and enzyme kinetics formulas from another source.

6. Magoosh MCAT Formula Flashcards

Magoosh takes a modern, tech-driven approach to MCAT preparation with its digital MCAT Formula Flashcards. This resource transforms the traditional, static formula sheet into an interactive, mobile-first learning tool. It is specifically designed to leverage spaced repetition algorithms, a scientifically proven method for enhancing long-term memory retention.

What distinguishes the Magoosh flashcards is their dynamic and detailed nature. Each digital card goes beyond just stating an equation; it includes critical context such as units, common applications, and typical variations of the formula. This system, accessible via a highly-rated mobile app, allows for progress tracking and customized study sessions, making it ideal for on-the-go learning and fitting review into a busy pre-med schedule.

Why It's a Top Choice

Magoosh's success is rooted in its accessible, student-centric design, which has led to over 100,000 app downloads and impressive user retention rates. Students frequently praise its effectiveness, with many citing score improvements of 6+ points after integrating the flashcards into their study routine. This innovative format turns passive review of an MCAT formula sheet into an active, engaging process.

The platform is designed to identify and target your weaknesses, ensuring your study time is spent efficiently. To learn more about how to optimize your study habits with these kinds of tools, explore these effective memorization techniques for med school.

How to Use It Effectively

To get the most out of the Magoosh MCAT Formula Flashcards, integrate them into your daily study habits with these strategies:

• Consistent Daily Review: Dedicate 15-20 minutes each day to go through the flashcards. Consistency is key to making the spaced repetition algorithm work for you.
• Trust the Algorithm: Avoid the temptation to skip cards or reset the spaced repetition schedule. The system is designed to show you formulas at the optimal time for memory consolidation.
• Active Recall: As you review each flashcard, write the formula down by hand from memory before flipping the card. This multisensory approach strengthens neural pathways.
• Target Weaknesses: Regularly use the "difficult cards" feature to create focused review sessions on the formulas you struggle with most, turning weak points into strengths.

7. Student Doctor Network (SDN) Collaborative Formula Sheet

The Student Doctor Network (SDN) Collaborative Formula Sheet is a unique, community-driven resource forged in the trenches of MCAT preparation. Unlike commercially produced guides, this sheet is a living document created and refined by a vast community of pre-meds, medical students, and even physicians on the SDN forums. It represents a collective effort to distill the most high-yield equations based on real, recent test-day experiences.

What makes the SDN sheet a powerful tool is its grassroots origin. The formulas included are often discussed and debated in forum threads, providing context and user-sourced mnemonics that are not found in standard textbooks. This crowdsourced model ensures the content remains relevant and reflective of current MCAT trends, offering insights directly from those who have successfully navigated the exam.

Why It's a Top Choice

The value of the SDN sheet lies in its authenticity and constant evolution. It is a testament to the power of peer-to-peer learning, often cited in the success stories of students who achieved 515+ scores. This resource is particularly popular among non-traditional students and those on a tight budget, as it provides high-quality, relevant information for free. You can find various versions and discussions on the Student Doctor Network MCAT forums.

This collaborative MCAT formula sheet is built on the shared knowledge of thousands of users. Its strength comes from the immediate feedback loop; if a test-taker notices a particular formula or concept being tested more frequently, the community quickly updates the shared documents to reflect this.

How to Use It Effectively

To leverage this community-built resource for maximum impact, consider the following strategies:

• Cross-Reference and Verify: Since it is a crowdsourced document, always cross-reference the formulas with official AAMC materials or trusted textbooks to ensure accuracy.
• Engage with the Community: Dive into the SDN forum discussions related to the formula sheet. This is where you will find valuable clarifications, usage tips, and memory aids.
• Find the Latest Version: The sheet is frequently updated. Search the forums for the most recent version to ensure you are studying the most relevant content.
• Contribute Back: If you find an error or have an insight after a practice test, contribute to the discussion. Helping others reinforces your own understanding and strengthens the resource for future test-takers.

MCAT Formula Sheets Comparison Table

From Sheet to Score: Activating Your MCAT Formula Knowledge

Navigating the landscape of MCAT resources can feel overwhelming, but as we've explored, selecting the right mcat formula sheet is a crucial first step toward quantitative mastery. From the exhaustive, foundational lists provided by Kaplan and The Princeton Review to the minimalist, must-know equations on the official AAMC reference, each resource serves a distinct purpose in your study plan. The key takeaway is that no single sheet is a magic bullet; rather, a strategic combination is your most powerful tool.

The true value emerges when you transition from passive collection to active application. Merely possessing a comprehensive mcat formula sheet is not enough. Success on the MCAT, particularly in the C/P and B/B sections, depends on your ability to recognize which formula to apply, manipulate it under pressure, and understand the fundamental scientific principles it represents. This is where your study strategy must evolve.

Turning Memorization into Mastery

Your goal should be to make these equations an intuitive part of your problem-solving toolkit. Here are actionable steps to internalize the formulas discussed in this guide:

• Categorize and Conquer: Start by organizing formulas by topic (e.g., Kinematics, Thermodynamics, Circuits). Then, create your own "master sheet" that includes the formula, the units for each variable, and a brief note on when to use it. This act of creation is a powerful memory aid.
• Embrace Dimensional Analysis: Before plugging in numbers, always check your units. Dimensional analysis is your built-in error-checking system. If your units don't resolve to the expected output (e.g., Joules for energy, Newtons for force), you've likely used the wrong formula or set up the problem incorrectly.
• Practice with Purpose: Don't just drill formulas in isolation. Integrate them into practice questions from sources like the AAMC Section Bank. For every quantitative question you attempt, force yourself to write down the relevant formula from memory before looking at the answer choices. This simulates test-day conditions and builds recall speed.

Key Insight: The most successful MCAT test-takers don't just "know" the formulas; they understand the relationships between the variables. They can instantly recognize that doubling the radius of a pipe increases flow rate by a factor of sixteen (Poiseuille's Law: Q ∝ r⁴) without needing to perform a full calculation. This conceptual fluency is your ultimate goal.

Ultimately, your mcat formula sheet is a launchpad, not the destination. Its purpose is to guide your learning until the equations are so deeply ingrained that the paper becomes redundant. By actively engaging with these mathematical tools, connecting them to core concepts, and applying them relentlessly in practice, you transform a simple list of symbols into a framework for critical thinking. This process builds the confidence and analytical speed necessary to excel on test day and beyond, laying a quantitative foundation for your future medical career.

Struggling to connect the concepts to the calculations on your mcat formula sheet? The expert tutors at Ace Med Boards specialize in breaking down complex MCAT science and developing personalized strategies that turn your weaknesses into strengths. Schedule a free consultation with Ace Med Boards today to build a study plan that delivers a top-tier score.