Cracking the LSAT: Tips for Aspiring Law Students

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is more than just a standardized test—it’s a gateway to legal education in the United States. For aspiring law students, a strong LSAT score can open the doors to prestigious law schools and significant scholarship opportunities. But with its unique structure and challenging questions, the LSAT can also be intimidating.

This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the LSAT, break down its components, and offer effective preparation strategies that help aspiring lawyers succeed.

1. What is the LSAT?

The LSAT (Law School Admission Test) is a standardized exam administered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). It is designed to assess key skills necessary for law school success, such as:

• Logical reasoning

• Analytical thinking

• Reading comprehension

• Writing and argumentation

The LSAT is accepted by all ABA-accredited law schools in the United States and is often considered one of the most important factors in law school admissions decisions.

2. Structure of the LSAT

The LSAT is composed of the following main sections:

A. Logical Reasoning (Arguments)

• Number of sections: 1 (sometimes 2)

• Time: 35 minutes per section

• Purpose: Tests your ability to analyze and evaluate arguments

• Skills assessed:

  • Identifying conclusions and assumptions

  • Recognizing logical flaws

  • Drawing inferences

  • Strengthening or weakening arguments

B. Analytical Reasoning (Logic Games)

• Number of sections: 1

• Time: 35 minutes

• Purpose: Measures ability to understand a structure of relationships and draw logical conclusions

• Typical setup:

  • Grouping, ordering, or matching elements based on given conditions

• Skills assessed:

  • Deductive reasoning

  • Diagramming and rule application

C. Reading Comprehension

• Number of sections: 1

• Time: 35 minutes

• Purpose: Assesses ability to read dense, complex texts and draw conclusions

• Includes:

  • Four reading passages

  • Topics ranging from law and science to humanities and social sciences

D. Unscored Experimental Section

• Purpose: Allows LSAC to test new questions

• Not identified during the test; does not count toward your score

• Could be any type (logical reasoning, games, or reading)

E. Writing Sample (LSAT Writing)

• Taken separately online

• Not scored, but sent to law schools with your score

• Tests your ability to argue both sides of a debate and present logical reasoning

3. Scoring and Percentiles

The LSAT is scored on a scale of 120 to 180:

• The median score is around 150.

• A score above 160 is typically considered competitive.

• A score above 170 places you in the top 2-3% of all test-takers.

Understanding how your score compares to others is crucial when targeting law schools. Many top-tier schools like Harvard, Yale, and Stanford expect scores in the 170+ range.

4. When to Take the LSAT

The LSAT is offered multiple times per year—usually in January, February, April, June, August, September, October, and November.

Factors to consider when scheduling:

• Allow 3–6 months for preparation.

• Plan to take it a year before your intended law school enrollment.

• Register early to secure your preferred date and location.

5. Preparing for the LSAT: Step-by-Step Tips

A. Start Early and Plan Ahead

• Begin your LSAT prep at least 3 to 6 months in advance.

• Create a structured study schedule.

• Allocate more time to weaker areas.

B. Take a Diagnostic Test

• Your first step should be a full-length practice test under timed conditions.

• Use it to assess your strengths and weaknesses.

• This baseline will guide your preparation strategy.

C. Use Official LSAC Prep Materials

• LSAC offers free practice tests and official prep books.

• These materials contain real LSAT questions, making them the most accurate tools.

D. Learn the Logic Behind the Questions

• Don’t just memorize answers—understand the logic.

• Study common logical fallacies.

• Practice identifying premises, conclusions, and assumptions.

E. Master Diagramming for Logic Games

• Logic games often require visual representation.

• Learn how to diagram effectively using symbols and charts.

• Practice common game types: sequencing, grouping, and matching.

F. Improve Reading Comprehension

• Read dense material daily (legal opinions, philosophy, science articles).

• Practice summarizing arguments.

• Focus on the author’s tone, main idea, and reasoning structure.

G. Analyze Every Mistake

• After each practice test, review every wrong answer.

• Ask:

  • Why did I choose this answer?

  • Why is it wrong?

  • What is the correct answer’s logic?

H. Build Stamina with Full-Length Tests

• The LSAT lasts around 3 hours.

• Take multiple full-length, timed practice exams.

• Simulate actual test-day conditions.

I. Consider Prep Courses or Tutors (Optional)

• If self-study isn’t enough, consider:

  • In-person or online prep courses (e.g., Kaplan, Princeton Review, LSATMax)

  • One-on-one tutoring for personalized guidance

6. Test Day Tips

• Get a good night’s sleep before the test.

• Eat a balanced meal to stay focused and energized.

• Arrive early and bring necessary items:

  • Admission ticket

  • Valid photo ID

  • Approved pencils and erasers

  • Snack and water for break time

Stay calm and confident—your preparation will pay off.

7. Retaking the LSAT

It’s not uncommon for students to take the LSAT more than once. LSAC allows you to take the test:

• 3 times in one testing year

• 5 times within five years

• 7 times in a lifetime

Should You Retake?

• Consider retaking if your score is below your target.

• Many law schools consider your highest score, but some may see all attempts.

• Use your experience from the first attempt to guide your revised prep strategy.

8. LSAT vs. GRE: What’s the Difference?

Some law schools now accept the GRE in addition to the LSAT. While the LSAT is specifically designed for law school, the GRE is a general graduate school test.

Unless you have a strong quantitative background or are applying to dual-degree programs, the LSAT is still the preferred route for most applicants.

9. Additional Resources and Tools

Free Tools:

• LSAC Official Prep: Free practice tests and analytics.

• Khan Academy LSAT Prep: Personalized and adaptive prep with video tutorials.

Paid Tools:

• 7Sage LSAT: Comprehensive video explanations and logic game tutorials.

• The LSAT Trainer: Highly recommended book for in-depth strategy.

• PowerScore Bibles: Detailed guides for each section (Logic Games, Logical Reasoning, Reading Comp).

10. Beyond the LSAT: Your Next Steps

Once you’ve taken the LSAT and received your score:

• Research law schools that align with your score and goals.

• Start preparing your application materials: personal statement, letters of recommendation, resume.

• Use LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service (CAS) to apply to multiple schools efficiently.

Cracking the LSAT requires discipline, strategic preparation, and a deep understanding of the test’s logic. While it may seem intimidating at first, thousands of students master the LSAT each year and go on to thrive in law school. By starting early, practicing consistently, and utilizing the best tools available, you can turn the LSAT from an obstacle into a stepping stone toward your legal career.

Remember, success on the LSAT isn’t about raw intelligence—it’s about preparation, perseverance, and confidence. With the right approach, your dream law school is within reach.