Continuing the retake discussion from Episode 2, Dave and Jon now explore study habits and techniques to help ensure your next attempt is the one that gets it done! They break it all down--from proper mindset (including time off) to identifying and tracking specific strengths and weaknesses to the ideal practice test approach. There’s also an in-depth look at Blind Review and tips for using an incredibly powerful learning tool,“The Teaching … [Read more...]
What Does It Mean to “Go Grey” on LSAT Score Release Day?
One of the most common talking points you'll hear leading up to an LSAT score release—and incessantly on the day scores become available—is the notion of "going grey." A hysterical flurry of "I'M GREY!!" announcements is one of the most reliable predictors that scores are imminent. What's All This Grey Business About? How Can You Determine Your Own Color Status? Two quick notes before we begin. First, the grey/gray debate is really one of pure … [Read more...]
LSAT PodCast Episode 2: Retaking the LSAT Part I – Pros and Cons
Retaking the LSAT can be a big—and tricky—decision. Fortunately, Jon and Dave are here to help you make the right one. They discuss what it takes to justify a retake, outlining five key scenarios where a retake is the correct call. With that comes talk of rolling admissions and “late” applications, incomplete apps, waitlists, and even scholarships! They wrap up by looking at things from the other side. What might prevent a retake as you weigh the … [Read more...]
Why Does It Take So Long for Paper LSAT Scores to Come Out?
Once the LSAT is over, one of the most common complaints is that scores should come out more quickly. Given that we live in an era where tests are electronically scored and the results are transmitted nearly instantly by email, it sounds like a reasonable complaint. So, why does it take so long for LSAT scores to appear? Couldn't they get them out a lot earlier? To best understand what happens once you turn in your LSAT scoresheet, let's take a … [Read more...]
LSAT PodCast Episode 1: January LSAT Recap and 2019 Test Info Discussion
We are excited to present the first full episode of our brand new PowerScore LSAT PodCast with hosts Dave Killoran and Jon Denning! In this inaugural episode, Dave and Jon discuss the various January '19 LSATs recently offered, provide updates on some recent LSAC news regarding registration deadlines and digital testing, and examine the remainder of 2019’s test dates with analysis on how each will be administered and advice on which to take. They … [Read more...]
The Power of Positive Thinking and the LSAT
If you've been deep into the study process preparing for the LSAT, now might be a good time to step back for a moment. Instead of talking concepts, I want to remind everyone of one of the most important and sadly overlooked components of success. A positive mental outlook. When your LSAT is right around the corner, you should feel as though your conceptual preparation is complete. In the days leading up to the LSAT, focus on preparing yourself … [Read more...]
LSAT Cancellations, Withdrawals, and Absences: What’s the Difference?
With the LSAT just around the corner, you may be taking a look at how your prep is going and thinking that you are simply not ready for the test. There's no shame in this; in fact, knowing when you are or are not ready for the LSAT shows a great deal of self-awareness and respect for your law school application. If you know you're not ready for the test, then there are a number of options available to you. We'll discuss each of them in detail so … [Read more...]
What Can You Bring to the LSAT?
LSAC has very specific rules and regulations about what you can (and can't) bring to in-person tests on LSAT Day. Read below to see what's allowed and what's not. The following lists what you must (and should, and can't) bring to the testing center.What You Are Required to Bring to LSAT DayLSAT Eligibility Number and Prometric confirmation number. These are on your LSAT status page in your LSAC account. Print it the night before to make … [Read more...]
1 Week Until the LSAT: Last-Ditch Efforts and How to Make Them Work
Before we begin, let's get one thing out of the way. If you haven't already studied for the LSAT for at least 1-2 months, there is little you can do in the last week before the test. Yes, life can get in the way and even the best-laid plans go astray. Unfortunately, you cannot cram for the LSAT. It's a test of how you think, not how much you know.Unlike most knowledge-based tests, the LSAT measures whether you possess the skill set necessary … [Read more...]
Thought for Food: Eating Your Way to a 180 on the LSAT
These days nearly everyone recognizes that the foods they eat affect the appearance of their bodies. However, most people fail to realize that what they consume also has a considerable impact on how their brain functions. Your diet can affect your brain’s energy level, memory, and the efficiency with which it handles its tasks. So, what should you eat on the days leading up to the LSAT to make sure your brain is operating at peak levels?The … [Read more...]
3 Myths About the Experimental Section on the LSAT
We talk a lot with students gearing up for an LSAT about the ideal way to take an LSAT practice test. One of the pieces we stress the importance of including is the Experimental Section. If you want a thorough discussion of the experimental section, go here, but for now here's a very brief description.Every officially-administered LSAT since 1991 contains four, 35-minute scored sections. 2 Logical Reasoning, 1 Reading Comprehension, and 1 … [Read more...]
Quantity or Quality?: A 2-Week Study Decision
So, your LSAT is fast approaching. Now, more than ever, you’re more eager to maximize the value of their remaining study time. That’s exactly what I’m here to discuss. How do you, with only two weeks and a mountain of materials, get the most out of the days ahead. Last Minute Game Plan There is a key to effective practice, particularly with time constraints. Recognize that the volume of work is less important than the insights that work can … [Read more...]
Waiting for Your LSAT Score? Here Are Some Things to Do
You're waiting for your LSAT score. You can't sleep, can't eat, and can only think about your score. Don't let all this drive you crazy! Besides, studies have shown that pulling out your hair makes you look frumpy. Don't do it! Instead, here's the smart thing to be doing with your time: put the final touches on your law school applications! Essentially, you should be able to click the "Submit" button the moment you receive your LSAT score. Steps … [Read more...]
The Secrets of Mindfulness Meditation (Your Local Monk Never Told You About)
This blog is brought to you by a special guest, Lauren Hartfiel. This post is about mindfulness meditation: what it is, how to do it, and its scientifically-proven benefits that may help improve your LSAT performance. Buddhist monks have used mindfulness meditation for over 2,600 years in an effort to achieve self-enlightenment. However, in the past few decades scientific research has shown that its beneficial effects go beyond spiritual … [Read more...]