LSAT Test Prep

Overview

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is one of the most difficult standardized entrance exams. Unlike other tests, the LSAT does not test your knowledge of facts or information; instead, it tests your ability to perform specific intellectual tasks. If you learn how to perform these tasks, you can master the LSAT easily. There are three question types for the LSAT: analytical reasoning diagramming games, logical reasoning argument passages, and reading comprehension passages.

Analytical reasoning diagramming games are the hardest part of the LSAT. In this section, you are asked to perform apparently silly tasks, such as "line up seven beads on a string." You must practice many of these questions before taking up the LSAT test. Logical reasoning argument passages count for half your LSAT score, so it is a vital part of your LSAT strategy. Logical reasoning questions mostly deal with things like "weaken an argument" and "identify an assumption."

There are no short cuts to prepare for the LSAT. Whether you use self-study books, intensive review courses, multiple-week courses, or tutoring, you are expected to spend a lot of hours for preparing. For every three people who take up the LSAT there is only one first-year spot. The level of competition is so intense that those who do not prepare will score poorly.

As the LSAT does not measure substantive knowledge, "cramming" for the test makes no sense. By the same token, there is a point beyond which additional study and practice confer little or no additional benefits. Devoting one month of your attention, energy, and concern to the LSAT is more than enough. Do not drag the process out by starting several months in advance or by postponing the exam to allow yourself more time than you really need for preparation.

Find the test dates and locations that are most convenient for you. There are four test dates each year at hundreds of locations nationwide, which are listed on the Law School Admission Council website. Register for the test online or request for a booklet that can be mailed to you. It is also important that you register for the test well in advance. Online registrations are processed immediately, but mistakes may happen so sign up at least four weeks ahead of time (allow six to eight weeks if you are mailing your registration). Pay the registration fee by sending a check for mail-in registration or pay with a major credit online. Look for your registration kit in the mail and if it does not arrive within four weeks of signing up, contact the Law School Admission Council immediately.

Benefits

Law schools rely on a mathematical formula to make admission decisions. This formula combines your undergraduate Grade Point Average (GPA) and your LSAT score in roughly equal proportions. The result is that a strong LSAT score can make up for a weak GPA and vice versa. Since your LSAT score counts as much as your GPA, any preparation you do for the LSAT is time well spent. A good score in the test enhances your chances of joining the law school of your choice.