LSAT: Tips and Advices for Preparation

What is LSAT?

LSAT is a standardized test administered by the Law School Admission Council in the United States and Canada. It is a test for admission to all American Bar Association (ABA) approved law schools, most Canadian law schools, and some non-ABA approved schools. LSAT scores are considered to be a predictor of first-year performance.

The LSAT does not measure the level of knowledge in the legal field. This is a general educational test, the purpose of which is to assess the verbal and analytical skills of the test takers. Some sections (Reading, Reasoning) are similar in type of assignment to similar sections of the GMAT exam.

The LSAT consists of 5 sections:

•  Logical Reasoning
•  Reading Comprehension
•  Analytical Reasoning
•  Writing Sample
•  Experimental section for which points are not awarded.

The test usually lasts half a day. During this time, it is necessary to answer an average of 100 questions on the LSAT aimed at checking logical and analytical thinking, understanding the text, and also write an essay. Results are scored on a scale of 120 to 180. The passing score for the top 10 US law schools is 168-170.

LSAT scores are valued by law schools higher than the average school leaving exam scores. The applicant is allowed to pass the LSAT no more than three times within two years. The test result is valid for five years.

Here are some practical tips to help you prepare for the LSAT and pass the test successfully.

1. Try to reproduce the real conditions of the test as accurately as possible.

For example, on LSAT it is allowed to use only pencils # 2. Accordingly, you need to train with just such a pencil. We also advise you to use the answer forms when preparing the answer, on which the correct answer must be circled. If, for example, you skip a question and then circle the wrong option by mistake, the whole sequence of your answers will be disrupted. Nightmare!! We recommend that you first write a few answers (say six) in your booklet and then transfer them onto the form.

2. Take full preparatory tests, timing. 

It’s not clear why anyone is training without time limits? LSAT offers no breaks between sections, so you can practice without distraction. Also be warned that many LSAT preparatory courses use informal aids as well, as they do not want to pay to use LSAT materials. Students suffer from this. Before signing up for a course, ask what materials are being used.

3. After completing the preparation test, do not rush to check your answers right away. 

What do students usually do after the preparation test? They check the answers and mentally praise themselves for each “hit”. This is the wrong approach because you are not taking the real test. It doesn’t matter how many correct answers you have. You must check your train of thought. Once the time is up, don’t jump straight to the answers. Now that you can take your time, analyze how you completed each task and why you chose this or that option. This method is called blind testing. 

4. Use a professional test preparation company to prepare for the LSAT. 

Expect to spend between $ 1,200 and $ 1,700 on preparatory courses and related materials. To get high scores, preparing for the test yourself will not be enough. Be sure to study with a teacher. Ultimately, it all depends on the abilities of the individual student. Before paying for courses, take a trial lesson to assess your chances.