Understanding the LSAT
The Key to Success is Adequate Preparation and Knowing the Format
The LSAT can be an intimidating test, but knowing the test format, how to study, and practicing test questions can make all the difference on the day of the exam.
The Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) is a standardized test for admission to all American Bar Association-approved law schools. Most Canadian law schools require it as well. It is offered four times a year—in February, June, October, and December.
The test consists of six, 35 minute sections, four of which are used to compute the test-taker’s score. One section, the “variable” or “mystery” section, is used to try out new test questions or to try a new format of questions. It is not scored. The last section, a writing sample, is not scored either, but the sample is sent to all schools at which the test taker applies.
There are three types of questions on the LSAT: (1) reading comprehension; (2) analytical reasoning; and (3) logical reasoning. Thus, two sections that are scored will have the same types of questions.
Reading Comprehension
These questions test a person's ability to read a complex set of materials, understand them, and then answer questions based on that information. The complexity of these sections is similar to the complexity of material a student will encounter in law school, thus it measures the student’s ability to take in a set of facts, analyze them, and answer questions—all under a severe time constraint.
Analytical Reasoning
This section is sometimes referred to as the “games” section. It is routinely one of the most difficult sections on the exam. The questions all involve a set of relationships, and the test taker almost always has to draw a diagram to answer the questions correctly. There are four “games” in this section, with five to eight questions on each game. Try a sample game to see what's involved.
Logical Reasoning
This section consists of arguments. The test taker will have to read the argument, understand it, and analyze it. The question will usually ask the test taker to either complete the argument or find some flaw in the argument.
When to Take the Test
Ideally, the best time to take the test is October of the year before the student plans to enter law school. That gives the student plenty of time to get his or her scores back and start the application process. It also gives the student another chance to take the test if he or she is not satisfied with the first score. This can be done in December or February, although the February test scores are likely to come after some schools’ admission deadlines have passed.
How to Study
There are basically two methods of studying for the LSAT, taking a prep course or doing self-study. There are an inordinate amount of prep courses available. Princeton Review and Kaplan are two of the most popular. There are other courses available, but with any course, even with Princeton Review and Kaplan, read some testimonials and do some research. A prep course is an investment of time and money, so make sure the one you choose actually has a chance of helping you succeed.
Self-study comes much cheaper. Check your local bookstore or library for study materials, which usually consist of a book, a few sample tests, and a CD ROM. The CD will also have some sample tests. Equally important is that these guides give tips and advice on how to take the test, which can be a life saver in properly preparing for the exam.
And finally, here are some LSAT tips on actually taking the test. The LSAT is not easy. But if the test taker familiarizes himself with the test format and puts in adequate practice time, the actual test will seem much less daunting.
