So, you want to go to law school? If you’re wondering how far in advance to start prepping for your LSAT, you’re not alone. Getting into law school is tough, and the better the school, the higher the requirements. The LSAT is a critical part of your application, so timing your prep is key to getting into a top school. Unlike the SAT and ACT, all LSAT results are reported, and you can only take it a limited number of times. So, taking an actual exam cold to get a baseline is not a good idea.
Getting to Know the LSAT
Before diving into study schedules, let’s understand the LSAT. This Law School entrance exam tests your critical reading, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning skills in multiple-choice sections, with a writing sample at the end. You can take it in January, February, April, June, July, September, October, or November.
The Ideal Study Timeline
While study timelines can vary, it’s generally recommended to start studying six to nine months before your test date. This gives you time to get comfortable with the material, work on weak areas, and take several practice tests.
9-6 Months Before Your Test Date: Foundation
- Get Familiar with the LSAT: Learn the test format, question types, and timing. Take a full practice test to establish your strengths and weaknesses.
- Develop a Study Plan: Based on your practice test results, you and your LSAT prep coach will create a detailed schedule that includes study sessions, breaks, and practice test dates.
- Gather Study Materials: Before you invest in quality prep books, online resources, and practice tests, check with your LSAT prep coach on their recommendations.
6-4 Months Before the Test: Intensive Study
- Daily Practice: Study daily, focusing on one section at a time to build proficiency and confidence.
- Review and Analyze: After all practice questions or tests, review your answers and analyze the wrong answers to understand your mistakes. Your LSAT coach can help analyze your practice exams and spot error patterns.
- Strengthen Weak Areas: Focus on your weak spots. Adjust your study schedule as needed based on your progress and ongoing practice exams.
1-3 Months Before the Test: Practice Test Phase
- Full-Length Practice Tests: Take full-length, timed practice tests weekly under test-like conditions. Analyze each one to identify and correct errors and lapses.
- Simulate Test Day: Replicate test conditions – find a quiet spot, use a timer, and follow exact timing. This helps with endurance and reduces test-day anxiety.
- Refine Test Strategies: Fine-tune your test-taking skills and strategies, such as time management, educated guessing, and pacing.
Adjusting for Personal Factors
- Academic and Work Schedule: If you’re busy with school or work, you might need to start earlier. If you have a lighter schedule, a more intensive study period could work.
- Learning Style: Tailor your study plan to your learning style. Short, frequent sessions might work for some, while others do better with longer, less frequent ones.
- Baseline Skill Level: If the gap between your baseline score and your goal is big, start the second phase earlier. If your initial score is close to your target, you might need less time.
- Stress and Anxiety: If you get anxious, starting early can help you pace yourself and manage stress better.
Ensuring LSAT Success
No matter when you start, here are some key strategies:
- Active Learning: Engage actively with the material. Summarize information, teach it to someone else, and apply what you’ve learned to new problems.
- Practice Under Real Conditions: Take practice tests under real test conditions – time yourself strictly and simulate the test environment.
- Review and Reflect: Review your answers thoroughly. Understand how you arrived at each wrong answer and adjust your strategies.
Final Thoughts
Deciding when to start studying for the LSAT is personal and depends on your situation, goals, and study habits. Starting six to nine months before your test date is a solid rule of thumb, but tailor your plan to fit your needs. Consistency, active learning, and thorough practice are your keys to success. Plan ahead, dedicate enough time, and you’ll be ready to ace the LSAT on test day.