10 Crucial Study Tips to Get You Through the LSAT Exam 

The LSAT is a difficult test, but its challenge lies in its approach. Instead of memorization, you’ll need critical thinking, intelligence, and philosophical knowledge to do well. Due to the test’s unique format, passing the LSAT won’t be an easy task without some crucial studying tips.

While 120 out of 180 counts as a passing score, you’ll need at least 170 out of 180 to get into the best law schools. In fact, you may need a 173 or higher to claim your spot at Harvard Law.

How to Prepare For the LSAT Exam

Studying for the LSAT can be an overwhelming experience, but preparation can help you reach your goals. Here are 10 tips you should use if you want to succeed on the day of the exam.

1. Mentally Prepare for the Challenge Ahead

There are hundreds of guides for law school students on the internet, but it’ll take more than basic knowledge to pass the LSAT. Mental preparation is just as necessary as book knowledge, so eat well, get some sleep, and remind yourself why you’re taking the exam in the first place.

2. Block Off Your Study Time Months Before

After registering for the LSAT, you should plan to study for at least 2 months straight (or 3, if you’re able). Make sure to study at least 2 to 3 hours a day, 4 to 5 days a week. Block off your calendar with study days in advance, so you’re guaranteed to have enough time to prepare.

3. Choose a Prep Course That’s Right for You

While LSAT prep books can help you ace the test, an LSAT prep course is the better option. Not only do prep courses provide you with practice tests and a study planner, but they’re much more engaging than books. Use this list of LSAT prep courses to find the best one for your needs. 

4. Keep Practicing, Practicing, and Practicing!

Once you’ve purchased your course, you can take a look at how the test is structured. Review the course and try answering every question. At the end, you’ll see what sections you struggle with. Focus on those sections first, then wrap back around to the topics you’re comfortable with.

5. Create and Take Full-Length Practice Tests

The LSAT is almost 3 ½ hours long, so prepare to take at least four full-length tests by the time you’re done studying. When taking practice tests, try to get your time down. Use the same advice as the last header: locate sections you can speed through, then work your way back.

6. Get Good at the Logical Reasoning Section

The Logical Reasoning section makes up half of your LSAT score, so if you can perfect it, it’ll be smooth sailing. While the other two sections, Reading Comprehension and Logic Games, are still important, understand that Logical Reasoning has twice the value of the other sections.

7. You Should Write the LSAT Writing Sample

Test takers are tempted to miss the LSAT writing sample because it doesn’t count as part of their grade. However, law schools look at this section to assess your admission status. Plus, you don’t have to prepare for the writing sample anyway, as a few paragraphs are enough.

8. Don’t Neglect Your Weaker LSAT Sections

Most students have trouble with the Logic Games section, but that doesn’t mean you should skip it. You could be leaving a lot of points on the table if you don’t study your weaker sections. Remember that your weaker areas are also the areas where you can gain the most points.

9. Know How You’ll Get to the Test Center

When you sign up for the exam, plan how you’ll get to the test center and other important things. Will you be carpooling, driving, or taking rideshare? Do you have snacks that’ll keep you full for 3 hours? Do you know if you need your LSAC permits or any other vital documents? 

10. Take a Deep Breath and Try to Relax

Students often worry that they’ll blank before the exam, which can happen. However, if you go into the exam thinking it will occur, it’ll become a self-fulfilling prophecy. It’s easier said than done, but take a deep breath and try to relax. If you prepare ahead of time, you’ll do fine.