How to plan your LSAT study schedule
If you are serious about law school, then you are already aware of how big an undertaking LSAT is. On an average, students put in at least 3 to 6 months to prepare for the LSAT. It might take longer, depending on your lifestyle and other commitments.
No matter the time frame, you need to have a study schedule to guide your preparation. With ample time, you can lower stress levels and add some slack in your plan for when life gets in your way.
A long-term LSAT prep is like a marathon; you have to build habits and be consistent to be on track. Here is our guide on how to approach LSAT systematically.
1. Understand the Requirements
The first step is to familiarize yourself with the LSAT format and instructions. As much as you can learn from reading descriptions, the best way to do this is to take a couple of practice tests. Remember that you are doing this to comprehend the test model, so don't be hard on yourself if you did not score as well as expected.
The idea is to spot your strengths and find which areas need more attention. With deliberate practice, you can quickly turn around the scores.
2. Find your Study Technique
LSAT requires specific and learnable skills. With the wealth of resources available, there is no excuse not to know what these are and how to acquire them. The learning phase is what requires thorough attention and persistence to sharpen those skills.
Begin by researching the various LSAT prep options. Several of the online resources offer a trial period for you to determine which materials and formats work best for you. Doing this will help you figure out if you need guidance in studying or you do better with a self-paced model.
3. Focus on Efficiency, not Speed
The problem of relying on a prep course is that you might get invested in completing it and lose focus on studying efficiently. You might want to start with untimed practice and move to the timed sections later.
Consolidate your lessons through outlines and spend time mastering the techniques suggested for each section. If you are feeling burned out, do not hesitate to try new approaches or new resources that will motivate you.
4. Practice Tests are your New Best Friends
There is nothing that prepares you more than taking practice LSAT tests. They are your rehearsals, so if you can replicate the test conditions, the more you will benefit from them.
Take as many practice tests as possible. You can either do them online or print them out to practice. Time yourself and consider how accurately you are answering.
5. Follow Through
Over several weeks of steady practice, your performance is bound to improve. If you do not feel confident enough in specific areas, return to your lessons, and work more on your techniques. It is never too late to make improvements; the farther you advance, the easier it would be for you to know where you have to focus more.
As the test approaches, take it easy on yourself. Make sure you get enough sleep and that you are well-rested before the exam. If you have worked hard and disciplined yourself to study for the test, it will surely reflect in your LSAT scores.
