Before one can even apply to law school, they must take the Law School Admission Test, otherwise known as the LSAT. Although this exam may sound similar to the standardized tests many high school students take before embarking off to college, it could not be more different.
Rather than testing individuals on the knowledge that have already acquired and mastered, the LSAT frames questions in a way that measures and projects one’s ability to excel in a law school environment. Therefore, this test encompasses a broader range of topics, which are broken down into five separate sections: one analytical reasoning, two logical reasoning, one reading comprehension, and one writing.
Because of its very nature, the LSAT is inherently harder to pass, though it is all the more imperative to earn a higher score.
With that in mind, let us highlight some study tips that could help you pass the LSAT with flying colors.
As previously mentioned, the LSAT is not your mother’s standardized test. Instead, it is extensive, intensive, and filled with questions that are all but designed to confuse those who are unprepared. Therefore, it is important you familiarize yourself with the format of the exam and legitimately analyze each and every question placed in front of you.
Additionally, be sure to pay attention to the questions you answer incorrectly and strive to solve them, as this will help you sharpen your skills further and feel more prepared for the real deal.
Sometimes, our first instinct is to batten down the hatches and study for an upcoming exam with a friend. While that is still acceptable for those who are preparing for the LSAT, it is truly better for them to focus on studying alone at this time. After all, the LSAT is known to reveal more information on one’s personal strengths and weaknesses than any other standardized exam.
Furthermore, given the analytical nature of each question, studying for the exam with a friend will likely not be extremely beneficial. So, take your preparation time seriously and work with as few distractions as possible.
Resist the urge to procrastinate
More often than not, students will let studying for the LSAT fall by the wayside, as they view their current classes and other responsibilities as more important. However, in order to truly succeed and pass this exam, it is imperative you begin your preparations as soon as possible, spacing out your study sessions and practice exams over a few days to let your mind absorb the new information. Otherwise, you will feel incredibly overwhelmed, especially if you save your studying and practice exams for the weekends.
When it comes time to take the real exam, be sure you do not skip any questions you are unsure of. Unlike the SAT, there is no penalty for getting a wrong answer on the LSAT. So, it is better you take an educated guess on a question than pass up the opportunity to increase your score. You may thank yourself for making such a choice when you see your final results.