How to Master LSAT Logical Reasoning

Of the 100 questions on the LSAT, half are Logical Reasoning. These items present you with a short argument, proposal, or conversation, and a question about the validity of the assumptions, strength of evidence, or the overall soundness of the argument. Logical Reasoning questions demand that you focus all the key parts of an argument—the conclusion, facts cited as evidence, and unstated assumptions.

You can greatly improve your LSAT score by mastering the Logical Reasoning; here are strategies to help you concentrate, and answer questions quickly and correctly.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Before diving into the text of the argument, read the question first. This will help focus your reading. For example, if the question asks, "Which of the following most weakens the arguments conclusion?" then you want to read the short passage carefully and precisely identify what the author's main point is.

2. Don't read anything extra into the arguments; you can only assume what is stated and nothing more. Many LSAT Logical Reasoning arguments are intentionally flawed because the NARRATOR makes faulty assumptions, but you yourself must avoid that trap. For example, if an argument states that Bob owns a house in Princeton, you can't necessarily assume that he lives there, too.

3. Get into the habit of marking the text in your exam booklet as you read. Underline the conclusion and put asterisks near the facts cited as evidence. For more difficult or longer questions, jot down the unwritten assumptions that the author relies on. If you've studied formal logic, you may find logical diagrams helpful.

4. Avoid the trap of looking for flaws in the factual evidence presented. On the LSAT, all faulty logic stems from either the misuse of evidence, or mistaken assumptions. For example, if an argument states that 70% of men in the US are gay based on a survey done in Provincetown, the survey results are not in error, but rather the use of the survey results.

5. Take note of words when you see them in the Logical Reasoning text: some, most, always, sometimes, never, can, must, not, only, and may. Many wrong answer choices can be ruled out simply by noting when these words are misused or misinterpreted.

6. Give yourself timed practice quizzes. About 25 questions in 35 minutes. When you begin studying, it's great to leave aside the timer and focus on learning the concepts. But don't forget that the LSAT is timed, so eventually you need to work on speed.

7. Buy several study guides and prep books, especially those that have full length LSAT practice tests. If you really struggle studying on your own, consider working with a tutor, or taking a prep class.