The LSAT is a remarkably challenging test, in large part because it measures both intricate conceptual understanding, as well as application of that understanding under rigorous time pressure. Put another way: The LSAT is an exam which tests a particular skill set. But it is also a test of efficiency. Start With the Fundamentals When most people begin preparing for the LSAT, the focus is on establishing that fundamental grasp of concepts. There … [Read more...]
Using the LSAT Bibles: Should Your Score Go Up Immediately?
One frequent question I get comes from students reading the LSAT Bibles who wonder how much of a score increase they should see while reading the book. The answer is that while you are reading the books, you probably won't see much of a score increase. It's after you finish the book and start working with ideas where you will begin to see the greatest score increases! Let's talk about why that is the case. LSAT Studying Is Not Linear To be … [Read more...]
LSAC Announces the Digital LSAT Launch Schedule for 2019
Back in May 2017, LSAC began testing a digital version of the LSAT in select cities for limited applicants. Students were able to take a free-of-charge, tablet-based LSAT in what LSAC labeled a "Digital Pilot Test," where the test makers could gather data and collect feedback in the final stages of their transition from a paper to a tablet format. The question on everyone's mind ever since has naturally been, "So when will a Digital LSAT become … [Read more...]
Why Breaks from the LSAT Can Increase Your Score
When you create a study plan for the LSAT, make sure to include liberal breaks in your schedule! How long of a break are we talking? Anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. At first glance, that advice may seem counterintuitive. To increase your score, plan to not study? But yes, it will help, and here’s why.Studying for the LSAT isn’t like studying for a History or Math test. In those exams, small universal details and rote memorization … [Read more...]
The Digital LSAT is Coming!
A few years ago I wrote a two-part article on "The Future of the LSAT," in which I examined the exam's history (Part 1) and speculated on what I believe could represent its future (Part 2).In discussing what the LSAT-of-tomorrow might entail, I noted, with some confidence, that the test makers would almost certainly begin exploring a computerized version of the test before long. Specifically, I wrote: "Digital testing comes with a host of … [Read more...]
The Ideal Way to Take an LSAT Practice Test
At some point in your studies full, timed practice tests will become part of the routine. As such, it’s critical that you understand exactly how to self-administer an LSAT practice test. Here I'm going to outline exactly how to craft the perfect practice test experience! What follows is a list of considerations related to practice test-taking. I’ve also included links to resources for each of these points in case you need more … [Read more...]
Finals and the LSAT: When is the Ideal Time to Take the Test?
In May, many of you may find yourselves either in the midst of Finals Week or having just finished your finals. With the extra stress and time constraints that accompany such a time, you have probably seen your best-laid plans for consistent LSAT preparation wane at the very least over the past couple of weeks. You may have even seen it become nonexistent. This is not an uncommon problem. Most LSAT Takers are Undergraduate Students Most (but … [Read more...]
Reading Comprehension a Total Drag? Find a Study Buddy!
The LSAT can be a daunting experience for anyone starting out their preparation. And one particular area that a number of students will struggle with is the Reading Comprehension section. After all, most people taking this test are collegiate-level students who are initially confident in their abilities as readers. As such, they should be regular perusers of periodicals such as The Economist, Scientific American, The New Yorker and National … [Read more...]
8 Weeks to the LSAT: What You Need to Know
With about eight weeks until an official LSAT administration, test day is right around the corner. In fact, it'll be here before you know it. Don't panic! I'm not here to freak you out. In fact, I'm here to help. Below you'll find a list of resources, links, and general suggestions, all designed to help you make the most of your final two months, and finish--or, as may be the case, start--strong! First Order of Business First things first, … [Read more...]
Creating an LSAT Study Bible
If you take our LSAT course, you learn the importance of accurately identifying every element you encounter on the test. In Logical Reasoning questions it might be Assumption or Flaw or underlying conceptual ideas like Causality and Formal Logic. Within a Game, constructs like Grouping and Advanced Linear may be apparent. You must be able to distinguish them consistently from one another so you can be certain your plan of attack is the best … [Read more...]
How Should Freshmen and Sophomores in College Prepare for the LSAT?
There's an adage, a truism in its self-evidence really, that it's never too early to start studying for the LSAT. So compelling and pervasive is this advice that high school seniors often ask how to get a jump on their law school journey. Most probably agree with me that it’s a bit premature to begin seriously investing energy into hardcore LSAT prep as a high-schooler...but college freshmen and sophomores are near enough to test day that it … [Read more...]
The PowerScore 2018 LSAT Bibles: Changes and Updates
Each year I make revisions and updates to the LSAT Bibles, and there are several different reasons for that. First, at least three new LSATs are released each year, and I like to make changes to some of the content to account for new directions taken by the test makers. Second, I talk with many different LSAT students and also teach various sessions throughout the year, and the feedback I receive helps me shape and improve parts of each book. … [Read more...]
The June LSAT and the Law School Waitlist
Every year from January through spring, in each law school admissions office a Wait List is created. Students who aren't accepted but also not rejected are put on the Wait List (WL). And once on the WL, there's a chance they might get in at some point. In other words, they are in law school admissions purgatory. And it's not just one or two students: Mike Spivey over at law school admissions firm Spivey Consulting Group notes that, "many schools … [Read more...]
Post-LSAT Resources
Now that your LSAT is over, we know your brain is probably feeling pretty fried. Hopefully, you were able to leave the test feeling confident! But what now? How should you fill the next few weeks until scores release? Here are a few post-test resources you can take advantage of. Sometimes there can be a degree of uncertainty following the test, so these links should help you feel more at ease with your performance. PowerScore LSAT … [Read more...]