The LSAT (Law School Admission Test) is a standardized, LSAC-administered exam that every student aspiring to join ABA-approved and Canadian law schools must take. It’s the only reliable predictor of a taker’s law school success. In addition, a good LSAT score is vital to getting into a top-ranking law school. However, passing the LSAT isn’t easy.
The time-pressured test challenges your critical reasoning, persuasive writing, and reading comprehension. With adequate preparation and the right strategies, you can achieve a great score. Outlined below are four tips to ace the LSAT.
1. Take the LSAT practice tests
Practice tests are created to replicate the actual LSAT. Using these tests when preparing for the actual exam can help you familiarize yourself with the test format, types of questions to expect, and time constraints imposed. Taking the LSAT practice tests comes with multiple benefits, including:
- Developing test-taking techniques: Practice tests can equip you with effective LSAT tips and tricks to help you ace the exam, such as effective time management and how to handle various types of questions
- Identifying your strengths and weaknesses: The tests enable you to determine the specific parts of the test where you’re strong or weak. This helps you focus more on areas that require improvement and even create an effective study plan
- Building confidence: Practice tests enable you to familiarize yourself with the type of questions and LSAT format, helping you approach the exam with more confidence
2. Create an LSAT study schedule and stick to it
Creating a study schedule and sticking to it can help you stay organized and on track with your LSAT preparations. A plan enables you to allocate time to every study task you wish to complete, ensuring you don’t waste too much time on unnecessary stuff. Developing a study schedule you can easily follow makes you more productive while providing sufficient time to rest and comprehend. When creating a study plan, set your LSAT writing date to determine how much you have to make a concrete schedule. This will pressure you to stick to the plan.
Enroll for an LSAT prep course
Taking an LSAT prep course not only prepares you for the challenging exam but can also help you achieve your desired target score or higher. The course can teach you the concepts that the LSAT covers and the strategies you need to handle different exam questions. It can also instill in you the study habits and discipline required to get ready for the test. The best LSAT prep course should:
- Use the official study materials provided by the LSAC (Law School Admission Council)
- Have experienced instructors
- Provide personalized, one-on-one study
- Verifiable reviews from other course takers
4. Join an LSAT study group
While you can prepare for the LSAT alone, joining a study group can be more helpful. The group pools different minds together, making it easier to master LSAT preparation materials. A challenge that might seem hard to deal with alone becomes easier when you have other people to consult and help you. An LSAT study group can keep you accountable and motivated. For instance, if there’s a material you must master to actively take part in discussions the following day, you’ll be more motivated in your private studies.
Endnote
While passing the LSAT is crucial in gaining admission to law school, getting a good score isn’t easy. However, taking practice tests, creating a study schedule and sticking to it, enrolling for a prep course, and joining a study group can help you ace the LSAT.