LSAT
The Law School Admission Test is designed to assess prospective law school candidates’ reading comprehension and proficiency in verbal and logical reasoning. The LSAT is an integral part of the law school admission process in the US and other countries. If you are going to sit the test, it is vital you prepare in the right way. Read on so you can get to grips with the LSAT preparation process.
Choose an LSAT Prep Course
First things first. Although LSAT prep courses are not a prerequisite for performing well on the test, you are sure to benefit from enrolling with an LSAT preparation course. But choosing the right one can be challenging, as there are many different prep courses available. It is crucial you choose one that contains the LSAT prep materials that best suit your style of learning and background. Select the right prep course for you, and you stand a much better chance of passing the LSAT and getting into the law school of your dreams.
Create a Study Plan
Regardless of the prep course you choose, there are some standard methods you should use to prepare for the test. You need to spend at least four to six hours studying every week for around three or four months prior to the test date. So, it is vital you create a study plan and stick to it. There is nothing worse than trying to cram in everything at the last minute.
Review the Test Format
The more you get to know the test format, instructions, and question types, the more prepared you will be for the test. Work through sample questions so you can familiarize yourself with the different types of questions. You can find sample tests online, but make sure you use reputable sites.
Understand Concepts
It is essential you understand certain concepts that will be central to your success on the LSAT. One core concept is identifying the components of an argument. By evaluating the evidence, conclusions, and assumptions, you can determine whether the argument is flawed. Another core concept to grasp is Logical Reasoning. By understanding that logical relationships can be drawn or symbolized, you can better understand arguments and make deductions. Understanding Logic Games is also vital. For example, you must be able to represent common rules visually. And with Reading Comprehension, you need to be able to recognize the author’s point of view.
Study Previously Administered LSATs
Once you are familiar with concepts, you should repeatedly practice questions that involve those concepts. And make sure you use the correct approach for each question, passage, and game.
As well as reviewing sample questions, you should get copies of previously administered tests, which you can find in libraries and online. There are a variety of old tests available to pursue, some of which only have answers and others that have answers and explanations. You can use previously administered LSATs to work through a complete test. Use a timer to simulate test conditions and do practice tests as many times as possible. With each practice test, take time to understand the reasons for why you got some questions wrong. You can then approach similar questions better in the future.
Be Mentally and Physically Prepared
On the day of the LSAT, you need to be both mentally and physically prepared. That means making sure you are not stressed from cramming at the last minute, getting enough sleep the night before the test, and not skipping breakfast. It is incredible how much more focused you will be if you sleep and eat well.
