LSAT Test Day Tips

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LSAT Test Day Tips

Adapted from Kathleen Uradnik - Pre-law Advisor at Saint Cloud State University

The night before: get good rest, to the extent possible. The day of: when you arrive, be prepared to fill out paperwork, present two forms of photo id, and get fingerprinted before you begin the examination. This process can take awhile, depending on how many students are taking the test at your test center. For the test itself:

1. Bring a reliable watch. Turn off its sound.

2. Dress comfortably in layers. Testing centers can be warm or chilly at any time of the year.

3. Try to relax. If you start to panic, take very deep breaths and exhale slowly.

4. Remember, you can skip questions that appear too difficult. If you skip a question, be sure to darken the proper numbered oval as you continue the test.

5. If time is about to expire, fill in all the remaining ovals, as there is no penalty for guessing. Some people prefer to fill in all of the same ovals (all "Bs" or all "Cs") on the theory that they are likely to pick up at least some points. When time is called, stop. Obey all instructions from the exam proctors.

6. If you need special accommodations, request them. Most accommodations are based on religion and disability, and the LSAC is required by law to make reasonable accommodations for these reasons.

7. Don't cancel your score at the end of the test. Almost everyone feels lousy after leaving the LSAT. Sleep on it and then decide. Feel free to call me to talk about your performance.

8. Bring a candy bar or something energizing to eat or drink for a power boost during the break.

9. Take the writing sample seriously. Write legibly. Don't be overly creative or try to impress with fancy words or arguments. Be straightforward in your writing and argumentation. Pick one position and defend it. Be sure to note why you did not choose a differing position. Make sure your essay has a brief introduction and conclusion.

10. After the test is over, relax. IT'S OVER. RELAX. Forget about it. The test is important, but it is only one component of your application. You have many other areas to prove your worth to law schools. Remember, the LSAT does not predict whether you will get into law school, or whether you will become a successful lawyer. Keep it in perspective.