Legal Reasoning Test

The LSAT tests legal reasoning ability.

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is the legal reasoning test that it used to determine admission by most law schools in the United States and Canada. Because a score on this test tends to be a good predictor of success in law school most schools weigh this more heavily than undergraduate grades. The test uses three different types of sections to test the ability to comprehend written material and reason through problems.

Test Format

The LSAT test taker is scored on four sections.

The LSAT is a multiple-choice test with five 35-minute sections. Four of the sections are scored, while the fifth is an experimental section used to try new questions. After completing the multiple choice section, the test taker has 35 minutes to complete an essay question. The essay is not scored, but your answer is given to law schools where you apply.

Reading Comprehension Questions

Attorneys must comprehend complex material.

Because lawyers must read complex material, the LSAT tests the ability of a student to comprehend writing on subjects ranging from literature to economics. This section is similar to reading comprehension tests you have taken in the past, only it is more challenging.

Logical Reasoning Questions

You will reason through complex questions on the LSAT.

This section tests the ability of a student to analyze logical arguments. Considered a good indicator of critical thinking, this section requires the test taker to apply rules to evidence and then form the correct conclusion.

Analytical Reasoning Questions

The analytical section focuses on relationships.

This section focuses on the relationship between different entities or structures. Rules regarding their relationship must be applied to the evidence in the question to determine the correct answer. A typical question asks how to arrange a group of people around a table based on certain ground rules.

Preparing For the LSAT

You will need study materials to prepare for the LSAT.

Some students take commercial courses to prepare them for the LSAT. These courses can be taken in a classroom or on-line. Others simply purchase materials and prep on their own. It is wise for students to take at least two practice tests before taking an actual LSAT.

Scores and Admission

Getting accepted to a law school requires a good LSAT score.

The LSAT ranges in scores from 120 to 180. Scores of 170 or higher are required for some top tier schools. A score of 150 or higher is necessary to get into many schools. Because the LSAT score is weighted more in the admission index than grades, the LSAT score is what matters most. To get an idea of your chances, input your numbers at "LSAT scores distribution and US law schools."

References

• Law School Admission Council: About the LSAT
• Student Doc: Law school scores distribution and US law schools