How to Take the LSAT
Although some people may naturally excel on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), the majority must prepare for this rite of passage required for admission to law school. The test consists of five sections including reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, logical reasoning, an experimental (not scored) section and a writing sample. The LSAT is scored from a low 120 to a perfect score of 180. Debate surrounding what constitutes the most important part of a law school applicant's package causes some exceptions, but generally speaking, law schools considered to be the most prestigious require the highest LSAT score for their applicants.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Computer with printer
- Internet access
- Review materials
- Credit or debit card
- Government-issued photo identification
- Practice LSATs
- Answer sheets
- Timer
Instructions
-
Instructions
-
1
Visit the Law School Admissions Council's (LSAC) website, lsat.org, and download free review materials. Additionally, you may find LSAT review books for purchase online or at your local bookstore. Familiarize yourself with the different types of questions you will be asked to answer on the LSAT.
-
2
Register for your test date and location at the LSAC website. Pay the testing fee of $139 (as of March, 2011) with your debit or credit card online. Print one copy of your confirmation for your files and one to take with you on your taste date with your photo identification.
-
-
3
Obtain practice tests and bubble answer sheets from the LSAC's website and from any LSAT prep books you purchased. For every day that you decide to prepare for the LSAT prior to your test date, you should try to complete at least one practice test. Fill in the bubble answer sheets with pencil and use your timer during your practice tests.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Consider taking a LSAT prep course prior to taking the test. The best practice tests are real LSAT questions that can be ordered for a fee from LSAC. Read through all the information on the LSAC website for more tips and suggestions. Do not use the timer on your practice tests until you have mastered accuracy.
Focus on Analytical Reasoning questions (also called Logic Games) for the biggest chance of increasing your score.
You may apply for a fee waiver on the LSAC website if you need assistance paying the testing fee.
Do not forget your government-issued photo identification or confirmation page on your test day or you will not be able to take the test.
As the LSAT is only given four times per year, allow yourself the opportunity for a retake prior to your application deadlines.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
