Overview

The LSAT is a standardized, multiple-choice test that probably differs from any exam you have taken in college or university.

A typical undergraduate exam reflects the course instruction, and test-takers usually study by reviewing class notes or memorizing material from textbooks and tutorials.

The LSAT is much less specific. It requires reading and problem-solving skills that test-takers have already developed as successful undergraduates. Also, in order to accommodate test-takers from different academic backgrounds, the test requires no specialized knowledge of law or other fields of learning.

In order to perform well on the LSAT, test-takers must be able to read and understand detailed passages, efficiently organize new information, make logical inferences, and respond critically to arguments presented in hypothetical situations. Most importantly, test-takers must be able to accomplish these tasks under severe time constraints.
General Strategies for Standardized Tests

1. Read Actively

The LSAT requires you to do a lot of reading in all the sections, not just the Reading Comprehension section. Since our attention tends to drift when we read long text passages, we must take special care to always read actively.

Active reading means highlighting and underlining anything that seems important. The purpose of highlighting in the test booklet is not to help you find key points when you re-read. You do not have time to constantly re-read information on the LSAT. Highlighting will force you to make quick decisions about the relative importance of information contained in the text. You will then be able to retain and recall information more easily when it comes time to answer questions.

2. Avoid Perfectionism

People who try to get a perfect score on the LSAT commonly make one of two errors. Either they get bogged down on the toughest questions and fail to complete the section, or they rush through the section while trying to answer every question correctly. Since you do not need a perfect score to be a competitive law school applicant, your best strategy is to aim for a target score range. The goal is to always work at a pace that you find comfortable.