The Law School Admission Test, better known as LSAT, is the standardized test that is required for admission to law school. Law schools weigh the test heavily during the admissions process. The LSAT takes more than 4 hours to complete and is intended to measure skills and ability rather than academic knowledge. The test also measures raw determination and endurance.
LSAT scores range from 120 to 180. Of course, a higher score will most likely open up more law school options as well as provide you with the opportunity to apply for scholarships. Most law schools require a score of higher than 160. Top-ranked universities, like Yale, will require scores above 170. Learn what your school requires on this Law School Rankings Report.
This is not a test you can cram for and expect to do well. Studying for the test is more like training for a marathon. The most important thing is to make sure you are registered for the LSAT with LSAC and that you are prepared before taking the exam. Plan to begin studying at least two months prior to taking the test, and allow 2 to 3 hours a day for at least 4 to 5 days a week during these months. Here are 5 helpful tips that will lead to a better chance at success when taking the LSAT.
Review Test Format
The test was previously given with paper and pencil, but recently it has added a digital option. LSAT problems are structured in a way to test your ability or skill at various levels of difficulty. Some of the questions are written as such to try and trick you. Part of your success will depend on how well you can recognize harder questions. The test is comprised of:
- a 35-minute multiple-choice section on reading comprehension
- a 35-minute multiple-choice section on Analytical reasoning, known as the logic games section
- two 35-minute multiple-choice sections on logical reasoning
- two 35-minute unscored sections. One is an experimental section of multiple-choice and the other is writing.
While there are different components to the test, if you want to do your best on the LSAT, make sure you master Logical Reasoning skills. Logical Reasoning makes up half of your LSAT score. Every question is weighted the same, and there is no penalty for getting an incorrect answer so always attempt to answer even if you are not sure.
Review Preparation Materials Available
It is important to study under the same conditions that you will face on test day. Take the full-length practice exam in a similar setting as exam day. Time yourself, and take the practice test in an environment where there is noise, people, and high pressure.
Practice With Previously Administered Tests
Take a free practice exam to familiarize yourself with how you will most likely perform during the real test. Next, take the full-length LSAT practice test. Plan on taking at least four full-length practice tests during your study time to become adept at the test structure, format, and timing. This will be time-consuming to the tune of 16 hours or more which is why it is so important to start early. The practice test will not only give you an idea of how the actual test is administered, but it will also help determine a baseline score to improve.
Access free digital practice exams through Law School Admission Council LSAC on their LawHub. Also, check with the law school you are wanting to apply to so you know what their LSAT requirements are before taking the test.
Review Your Mistakes After Each Test
You are not only testing to get a high enough score to get into law school, but you are also assessing how well you will do as a law student and eventually a practicing attorney. Keep that in mind while you use your analyzing skills during your study time by reviewing your mistakes after each test and analyzing the questions and the answers to determine why you got them right or wrong. After you take the practice test, pay close attention to the types of questions you need to improve on.
Be Mentally Prepared
Don’t disregard the importance of being mentally prepared. Take the day before the test to rest and gather items you will need on test day. Do not cram study time into the last minute or stay up all night. Make sure you know how to get to the testing site. Plan on arriving early so you are not feeling rushed on test day. Go into the test feeling relaxed and rested. Don’t convince yourself that you will do poorly. Remind yourself why you want to get into law school, and focus on your goals as you answer each and every question on the LSAT.
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