Best Resources for Studying PAT: Books, Apps, and Practice Tools Reviewed

Jun 12

Written By DSD .

The Perceptual Ability Test (PAT) is one of the most unique and challenging sections of the DAT. With six visual-spatial subtests that include Keyholes, Angle Ranking, Hole Punching, Cube Counting, Pattern Folding, and Top-Front-End, it requires more than just memorization—it takes daily practice, strong strategy, and the right resources.

To save you time (and frustration), we’ve reviewed the best books, apps, and practice tools for studying PAT so you can choose what works best for your study style and score goals.

📚 Best Books for PAT Practice

1. Kaplan DAT Prep Plus

Best for: Beginners looking for a broad overview
Kaplan's comprehensive DAT book includes a solid PAT section with strategy breakdowns and practice problems. While not as in-depth as other resources, it's a great starting point.
⭐ Pros: Strategy explanations, review quizzes
❌ Cons: Not enough high-volume PAT practice

2. Barron’s DAT

Best for: Students who want a print supplement
Barron’s PAT section is helpful for reviewing techniques, especially for beginners. It lacks the sheer practice volume of digital tools, but the strategies are well-explained.
⭐ Pros: Budget-friendly, good for learning concepts
❌ Cons: Limited number of realistic PAT questions

📱 Best PAT Apps and Online Tools

3. DAT Bootcamp

Best for: All-in-one, high-yield PAT prep
DAT Bootcamp is one of the most popular tools among top scorers. It offers:

15+ full-length PAT exams
Video walkthroughs
Pattern recognition drills
It’s particularly great for visual learners and those who want to simulate test-day conditions.
⭐ Pros: Accurate questions, test-day interface, expert tutorials
❌ Cons: Pricey, but worth the investment

4. DAT Booster

Best for: Strategy-focused learners on a budget
DAT Booster rivals Bootcamp with highly realistic PAT questions and some of the best strategy videos out there. Their generators for Cube Counting and Hole Punching make targeted practice easy.
⭐ Pros: Excellent analytics, great visual aids
❌ Cons: Slightly smaller question bank than Bootcamp

5. PATCrusher

Best for: High-volume practice
PATCrusher is ideal if you want tons of PAT-only practice. With over 10,000 questions, it’s perfect for drilling your weak areas again and again.
⭐ Pros: Large question bank, affordable monthly plan
❌ Cons: Limited strategy instruction

💻 Free Tools & Generators

6. Practice PAT (CrackDAT Free Tools)

Best for: Extra practice without the cost
If you’re on a budget, sites like CrackDAT offer free question generators for Keyholes, Hole Punching, and Cube Counting. While not perfect replicas of real test questions, they’re great for warmups.
⭐ Pros: Free, easy access
❌ Cons: Not always as accurate as premium tools

🎓 Bonus: 1-on-1 PAT Tutoring

Sometimes the fastest way to improve is by working with someone who’s been there. At Dental School Declassified, our PAT tutors are dentists who scored in the 98th+ percentile and specialize in teaching visual-spatial strategy for each section.

✅ Perfect for:

Students struggling with timing
Visual learners who need personalized feedback
Re-testers trying to boost a weak PAT score

👉 Book a session or learn more here.

🔍 Final Thoughts: Choose the Right PAT Resources for You

The best PAT prep resources depend on your learning style, timeline, and budget. Here’s a quick breakdown:

No matter which resource you choose, consistency is the most important factor in PAT success. Mix strategy with timed drills, review your mistakes, and you’ll see your score rise.

DSD .