Study Guide for Biology

Very helpful companion to text. Repetition, repetition, repetition, you know, they say is the key to the kind of learning necessary for this class.

First, let me say that, early on in the semester, I became disenchanted with the class I was using Campbell's book for (general biology). It was pretty evident that one of the main intentions of the class was to weed out students, and so I didn't find it very appealing; however, if you are unsure about which facet of biology you're interested in (or if you're interested at all), then the class might hold some value for you. Taking that into consideration, I wanted to get what I need to know for the tests, and not waste anymore time. Taylor's study guide was perfect for this; it gives only what you need to know, and presents in a fashion such that the reader cannot be passive; i.e. its perfect for test preparation. I went from spending upwards of 10 hours a week reading and outlining Campbell's book to maybe 10-15 preparing the weekend before the test (about two days in the library), with equal results. I must admit that I actually learned the material better when I was reading and outlining, but after asking myself to what end, I decided it wasn't worth it. This certainly isn't the only use of the study guide, but it worked for me, and I think it illustrates the power of this guide.

...This IS a condensed textbook, with great detail and review. THis is not intended to be an AP exam prep book, but it sure CAN be, it just has a LOT of detailed not required on the College Board examination. The concept maps and INTERACTIVE questions are the BEST review because I am a visual learner. As long as you're up to the challenge, be sure to check out this book, as well as an AP prep book (Cliffsnotes, Barron's, and Princeton Review). Peace and good luck.

This is a good study guide for reviewing the essential topics in college bio. It is a good resource that helped me to learn bio. If you really want a great source for knowing the type of questions to expect on your college biology exams get the following by Patrick Leonardi: The Ulimate Study Guide for Biology: Key Review Questions and Answers with Explanations Volume 1 (Topics: Organization of Living Things & Chemistry of Life, Structure and Function of the Cell and Energy Pathways, Reproduction and Heredity, Genetics) Volume 2 (Topics: Evolution, Ecology, Kingdom Bacteria, Kingdom Protista, Kingdom Fungi, Viruses, Plant Form and Function) Volume 3 (Topics: Kingdom Animalia, Organization of the Animal Body, Animal Form and Function, Animal Reproduction, Development and Behavior) Taylor's study guide and the Leonardi's study guide helped me with college biology, made my life a lot easier.

I used this review book with the Campbell's biology book in AP Biology and let me tell you, it helps. It gets every detail to within a few pages and helps you memorize key facts and figures of the book. Recommend for anyone who is using the Campbell's book.