For SAT Subject Tests... Kaplan or Barron Princeton Review?

There's no single "best" prep book among Kaplan, Barron's, and Princeton Review for SAT Subject Tests, as the ideal choice depends on your learning style and the specific subject test. However, here's a general comparison:

* Kaplan: Often praised for its clear explanations and well-structured practice questions. It tends to focus on a good balance between content review and practice, making it a solid choice for most students. It's generally considered more user-friendly than Barron's.

* Barron's: Known for its extensive practice questions, often exceeding the difficulty level of the actual SAT Subject Tests. This can be beneficial for aiming for a high score, but it might also be overwhelming or discouraging for some students. The content review can be dense and less user-friendly than Kaplan's.

* Princeton Review: Falls somewhere in between Kaplan and Barron's. It usually provides a decent amount of practice questions and clear explanations, but generally doesn't go to the extremes of either Kaplan's ease of use or Barron's difficulty. They often emphasize test-taking strategies.

Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

* If you prefer a clear, straightforward approach with a good balance of content review and practice: Kaplan is likely a better choice.

* If you want extensive practice, even if it means dealing with harder questions than you'll see on the test, and don't mind a more dense textbook: Barron's might be suitable. This is good for aiming for a very high score, but be prepared for a potentially more challenging experience.

* If you want a middle ground between the two extremes: The Princeton Review could be a good option.

Ultimately, the best way to choose is to:

1. Look at sample pages: See which book's writing style and question format you find most engaging and easy to understand.

2. Read reviews: Check online reviews from other students who have used these books for the specific subject test you're taking.

3. Consider your current knowledge level: If you're already quite strong in the subject, Barron's might be a good challenge. If you need more foundational review, Kaplan might be better.

Remember that no single prep book guarantees a high score. Consistent study and practice are key. You might even find it helpful to use multiple resources to supplement your learning.