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How Long Should You Prepare for LSAT?

 

 

The recommended study time for LSAT is about 200-300 hours, typically spread out over 3 to 6 months. However, the question is more about how effectively you plan to utilize this time. The focus is not only on learning the strategies but correcting your mistakes and building your test-taking endurance. 


However, today, you can easily find a plan that is suitable for any study timeline. If you cannot set aside three months, you can find plans that condense your training courses to flexible schedules. 


Start by Taking a Practice Exam


The best way to create your study plan is to take a practice exam first. Skipping this step due to the fear of score will not help you in the long run. Remember that no matter your score on this test, it is indeed possible to improve it. The first step is to find out where you need to work more, and where you work best. 


If you are enrolled in an LSAT prep course, your instructor will use the baseline score to determine a study plan for you. They will be able to identify the error patterns, strengths, and weaknesses that you need to address. If you are taking the test on your own, you will need to thoroughly analyze your answer to come with a plan on your own. 


Prepare Based on your Score and Admission goals 


Every student aims for high LSAT scores, but remember that your law school application also combines other factors. If you need a particular score to secure a scholarship or reinforce your application, you can plan accordingly. 


If you need more information regarding this, the admissions office of your prospective college options should be able to help out here. As a thumb rule, if your baseline score is less than your target, then you would need more time to prepare than the recommended hours. 


Tweak your Lifestyle to fit LSAT Needs


Preparing for the LSAT is not something you can do in the spare hours. Of course, you can, but it would take a longer time and more effort from your side. If possible, try to keep LSAT preparation your priority over your other activities. This means that you will have to forgo some of your commitments and make adjustments accordingly. If you are working, you will need to break from social activities to set aside a few hours every day for the LSAT prep. 


Prepare Daily And Weekly Schedules


Learning for three hours a day does not always translate to effective studying. Instead, it would be best if you focused on goals. For instance, focus on covering these many questions or finishing a part of logic games in a specific time limit. 


Make a schedule well-in-advance, so you already know what you have to do that day when you sit down. You know what you need to accomplish and can systematically organize the resources accordingly as well. Keep notes of your errors so that you can come back and work on it more. 


A piece of common advice that every LSAT test-taker gives is to spread out your learning schedule. Cramming is not a productive approach; in fact, it will only reduce your performance. Give yourself ample time to prepare, work daily, and be well-rested before the test.