Here's How:
- Forget studying and go for preparation.
The LSAT is not a test you can "study" for in the traditional sense. There is no particular substantive knowledge required. Rather, the LSAT tests how well and quickly you assess and process information that you are given. So reading comprehension, logic, analysis, deductive reasoning, and the like are the skills you need to succeed.
- Select your preparation tool.
Note: that's "tool" -- singular. Not "tools" -- plural. It's awfully tempting to load up on every title on your local bookstore's references shelves with the acronym "LSAT" in the title. Resist this urge. It will only complicate your life and weaken the impact of your study time. Instead, select one good tool (whether it's a book, software application or program) and stick with it.
- Pick a date.
No, it's not a social event. However, at the Law School Admission Counsel (LSAC) website there is a list of current test dates. You'll need to choose one of those dates to plan the remainder of your preparations.
- Start early.
The LSAT, being a rigidly formatted and time-limited test, is not conducive to a quick two-day brush-up approach. Unless you have a preternatural gift for these sorts of tests, you'll want to allow yourself a month at a minimum -- preferably two to three months.
- Get comfortable with the format first.
You will face questions of three types: logical reasoning, analytical reasoning, and reading comprehension. These questions will appear in five formatted sections: one reading comprehension, one analytical, and two logical reasoning (typically logic games); a fifth section is deemed "experimental" and will not count towards your score (it's used by LSAC to test future exam problems). At the end of the exam, you will have 35 minutes to prepare a short writing sample. While this section is not scored, it is used by law school admissions personnel to assess your writing skill.
- Practice, practice, practice.
Take as many practice tests as you possibly can. Make the most of the practice tests by trying to emulate the conditions as much as possible (timing, seating, time of day, etc.). In addition to commercially available products, the LSAC website has free preparation materials available for download.
- Begin to work at improving your time.
Success on the LSAT is largely determined by your speed and accuracy. The faster you're able to complete a section, the more time you'll have available to review your work and ensure completeness and accuracy. Failure to complete a section could work to your disadvantage, so set little goals for yourself in each practice session (i.e., "one minute off my logical reasoning practice section").
- Have a plan for test day.
Since most applicants will have to travel to an available test site, make sure you know how long the trip will take. Consider renting a hotel room and traveling the night before, so as to ensure a good night's rest and plenty of time to make it to the test site. Think about comfort; dress casually and in layers, in case the testing room is too hot or cold. Make sure you leave sufficient time for a good breakfast; it's a bit hard to concentrate on logic puzzles with a growling stomach!
Tips:
- Make sure your selected preparation tool has sufficient practice tests for you to become comfortable with the LSAT environment and format.
- Take the test as early as possible. This gives you time to retake the test and get scores back before applying to law schools.
What You Need:
- Registration for the LSAT (available at LSAC website)
- Test preparation materials or tool
- Pencils
- Time