LSAT Information
Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and the LSDAS
Student Reviews of LSAT Prep Courses
LSAT Format
LSAT Tips
LSAT FAQs
Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
and the LSDAS
The LSAT is probably the most important part of the law school application. It is the only completely objective standard to compare students and predict an applicant’s success at law school since it is extremely difficult to compare students who have attended universities from across the country and have had different majors. Diligently prepare for the exam and your chances of getting in to your chosen school will increase dramatically.
Whether you decide to take an LSAT prep course or not, I suggest that you first purchase The Official Triple Prep Plus with Explanations from the LSAC. These are previous LSATs so they will give you a good perspective on what you will see when you take the exam and enable you to make a better decision about the necessity for you to take a prep course.
The following write-up is from a first year law student at the Seattle University School of Law. It is only one student’s opinion and should not be confused with a scientific study. In learning about the LSAT talk to as many people as possible, do your research, and consult with the pre-law advisor.
"For those aspiring to attend a top-tier law school, or any law school for that matter, the single biggest mistake one can make is not preparing for and taking the LSAT seriously.
"Two reasons, other than personal pride, to do well on the LSAT are the opportunity to get in to a nationally ranked school and the opportunity to receive a scholarship. Nationally ranked schools look at two things, LSAT and GPA. Most law schools only offer money, as an enticement to enroll, to those applicants with the highest index scores (combined LSAT and GPA).
"One could make the argument that a high GPA and a marginal to low LSAT will suffice to sway the law school admissions committee in accepting the applicant. This belief, however, is wrong. Grade-inflation is prevalent in many universities and the LSAC (the organization that determines every applicants' "true" GPA) has attempted to level the playing field, but face the reality; everyone has excellent grades. Remember, this is law school you're applying to; everyone is smart and did well in undergrad.
"So the fact remains that having a high LSAT is the single most important determinant between getting what you want or settling for something less.
"How does one get the LSAT score they want? Easy. Study! There is no simple fix or cure-all available. The easy road to a successful LSAT is paved with missed opportunity and shattered dreams. Studying and learning "how" to take and succeed on the LSAT is the only successful way to beat the test. And, that is exactly what every applicant should focus on doing-beating the LSAT. Why? Because the LSAT is not designed or intended to let you into law school, its sole reason for existence is to keep you out.
"The LSAT can be learned. Period. It takes time and a tremendous commitment, but it can be done. There are numerous tools available, from seminars, courses and study aids, which will teach you how to do well on the LSAT.
"If you are under the illusion that a couple of weeks before the test you will simply thumb through a study aid, you will probably not get the score you wanted. Remember, thousands of applicants are competing for your seat at your first choice of law school. Not to mention, they all want your merit and scholarship money too. Your best chance to get what you want is to rock the LSAT. Good Luck!"
Al Treacy, 1L
Seattle University School of Law
Student Reviews of LSAT Prep Courses
The following prep course reviews are from students who have recently taken the LSAT. They are meant to serve as a guide when deciding whether or not to take a review course. In addition to the reviews, make sure you do your own research and get opinions from as many people as possible who took the LSAT.
Test: Kaplan's U-District LSAT
Cost: I paid approximately $1000 for the first course, and opted to retake it for $200 a year later.
Quality of teachers: good; I was taught by a grad student at the U in Anthropology the first time, and by an older instructor (who I think teaches high school math) the second time.
Materials: course books give you some good practice for in-class learning. Many sample tests available at the center. Each in-center class is available on video; video carols were available the 2-3 times I watched videos instead of attending classes.
Flexibility: I don't remember any restriction on going to another class if you can't make your allotted class for the week. As I remember, there are 4 scheduled full-length sample tests as part of the course, mostly Saturday mornings, but if you can't make these you can reschedule.
Score increase: I increased 7 points (from 152 to 159). Kaplan's average increase I think is higher (7.5 points or so). I am a better essay writer than objective test-taker
Final "worth the time" analysis - if you're not always a good objective-test taker, I recommend the course because I felt like I had seen everything the test would throw at me, reducing panic. People that are good objective-test takers might just want to get a book of old LSATs and see how they do on one or two before committing the money.
John F. Prendergast, 2L
Seattle University School of Law
I decided to take an LSAT prep course because it had been a few years since school for me and I was working full time. I chose Kaplan because it was highly recommended, highly advertised and most importantly - the testing center was most conveniently located to my workplace. The prices of the testing centers vary by a couple of hundred dollars, which is really a spit in the bucket of the cost of applying to schools (the LSDAS, LSAT, Admissions Fees, Transcript Fees all equals hundreds of dollars…) The course basically forced me to at least do what was necessary to keep up with the course. Kaplan recommends that the more you study, the higher your score will rise. This is true, but if your score was already low, it will probably not rise to a level of gaining admission to a top ten school. My score did rise, even without the extra studying. The main value of taking any course - or studying for the LSAT at all - is that it gets you used to making test-type decisions quickly. The advantage in time can translate into a better score. In addition to classes, Kaplan gave a full LSAT every two weeks and scored and charted the results to show you what to work on. The instructors were all very good and appeared to sincerely want to help the students succeed. Kaplan is on the expensive end of courses, but they did deliver for the money.
Sarah Mitchell, 2L
Seattle University School of Law
I took the Prep Master LSAT course. It was an intensive weekend course taught one week before the actual LSAT. I improved my score by at least one bracket by the end of the weekend and then improved again on the actual test. I thought it was well taught. The classes kept moving but there was still time to ask questions. It was only about $350-$400 for the course and that included the in-class materials as well as practice tests to do at home. I thought it was well worth the money and fit with my time limitations as well as my monetary situation. It is a full weekend, two 8-10 hour days, but I thought that was better than months of homework when I was already bogged down with school.
Melody Crick, 2L
Seattle University School of Law
Princeton Review.
I choose the Princeton Review for several reasons including the fact that they allowed you to retake the class at no extra cost if you were not happy with your LSAT score. My experience was positive, the instructor made himself available to the students via email, telephone and a pager. He was knowledgeable and able to answer all student questions. The test materials were well laid out and had many examples for homework, working on extra problems and taking sample tests. We had four practice tests that were mock LSAT. This was good way to allow students to get used to the conditions of LSAT testing conditions. We took practice tests in a classroom with a proctor under timed conditions.
We took a practice exam before the class and three others, we were given charts which monitored our progress and it contained a graph which showed how we were progressing with each exam. This was helpful in identifying our strong as well as weak points. I increased my score by seven points. We were also taught to think not only with LSAT logic but outside the box in the form of timesaving tips and other tips which helped us to get through the test. One of the tips that I still find useful is how we were taught to keep track of time, which I still use when taking law school exams. Another tip we were given was to answer every question, I did this on the LSAT and there was a question which had no right answer, every test taker that answered that question was given an extra point.
Overall, I thought the money I spent on this LSAT prep course was well spent and the prep course was beneficial in helping me to prepare for the LSAT.
Michelle Jones, 2L
Seattle University School of Law
Steven Klein LSAT study course.
Steven Klein has been in the business of preparing people for the LSAT for a number of years. His program is intense, well formatted and he, or his assistant, is available for questions before and after class, or by appointment. He seems to really care that his students are comfortable with taking the LSAT and do the best they can. It is an intense nine-week program and to some degree I think you will get out of it what you put in.
The LSAT consists of three types of sections, Reading Comprehension, Logical Reasoning and Logic Games. Steven Klein focuses on two areas in particular, Logical Reasoning and Logic Games. In classes that met twice a week Steven would go over different strategies to figure out the answers to different styles of questions. Once a week we would do a practice LSAT, either proctored at the school or at home.
Reading Comprehension was the least emphasized. I was told that the key in this test is to read slowly until each paragraph made sense. One point that was helpful was the sections were not titled. So to figure out what the title should be would be helpful in answering some of the questions. Most of the questions asked what the main point was or what was the main argument.
The section that we worked on the most was Logical Reasoning. This process reminded me of Philosophy. There is a lot of if A then B type reasoning. Steven taught several ways to break down the questions. I think the process of analyzing the questions became more difficult for me than the questions themselves. Steven taught the kinds of flawed reasoning that said if not A then not B because if A then B could be true but B is not dependant on A only A is dependant on B. Which when I see the question I generally can figure out what is going on but this was a little abstract in practice.
There are several other kinds of logical reasoning analysis, inference questions, that want you to draw a conclusion from some basic information, main point, and non main point questions, that take some mulling over in order to answer. The emphasis in class was to first figure out what kind of question was being asked. This was taught by reading the question first. Then trying to figure out what requirement the answer needed a must be true, must be false, could be true or whatever type of answer was needed. Then by analyzing the answers I could see which one truly answered the question.
Steven gave us sheets of Logic Games to practice. These are like story problems and the answers lie in the way they are set up not just in the solving. Some of them can get you caught up for a long time, so one of his tips is to work on one problem for a while and if you do not get it move on. The other tip that was helpful is to start with the first question, or just start. Steven gave us practice sheets and practice is advisable. I really think it helped to practice.
WAS IT WORTH THE TIME AND MONEY?
When asked, was the class worth it? I am not sure what to answer. Was I calmer after taking the class? I think so. I feel that I was more comfortable with the test after studying so much. I was familiar with the material and kind of questions that were asked. I had heard of people improving 5 even 10 points in class from one test to the next. My score was exactly the same that I had on the first practice test I took at Steven Klein.
Mary Henderson, 2L
Seattle University School of Law
Kaplan LSAT Prep. Course
I graduated from Western Washington University in 1996, spent a few years in the work world and decided to apply for law school in 1999. At that time I felt a little disconnected from studying and a lack of discipline in practicing for time tests and the like. I shopped around and took the Kaplan prep class up on the Ave located in the University District.
I was working full time so I signed up for a night class. I can't clearly remember how much I paid for the class but it was definitely useful for me. The instructor was willing to help outside of class and take time to analyze your problem areas. I became an ACE at Logic Tests and I had started out struggling with them TREMENDOUSLY. It upped my score by 6 points. This may not seem like a major increase but the confidence that I gained in the class was invaluable when it came to test taking time.
The prep class definitely was worth the money for me because I needed a live body to ask questions and interact with. I also needed a structured setting and assignments in order to be thoroughly prepared.
Shannon Garvin, Visiting Student
Seattle University School of Law
LSAT Format
The LSAT is a standardized, multiple choice test that lasts 3-1/2 hours and is administered four times per year at different locations throughout the country. (The Seattle University School of Law is one of the major test sites in Seattle). The test consists of five 35 minute sections, four of which will be scored and one that is experimental. (When you take the test, you will not know which section is experimental, so maintain focus and concentration throughout the exam. It's fruitless and a waste of your time to try to guess which section is the one that will not be graded.) There will be one section on Analytical Reasoning (Also known as the Logic Games Section), two sections on Logical Reasoning, and one section on Reading Comprehension. The experimental section will be another game, logical reasoning, or reading comprehension section. You will also be required to write a 30 minute impromptu essay that is not to be graded but is sent to every law school to which you apply.
Reading Comprehension
Each section has about 5-8 questions and each passage is about 500-800 words. This section tests your ability to critically analyze a text and answer questions that measure your understanding of the passage. You are not required to have any outside knowledge of the particular passage, all the necessary information to answer the questions will be contained in the passage itself.
Analytical Reasoning (Also know as the Logical Games Section)
This section is made up of between 24-26 questions and there are usually four games. The key to success in this section is practice, practice, practice. Although, at first, this section usually gives students the most problems, with diligence and preparation students can master the necessary skills to be successful. This section is the most coachable. In the games section, you will have to logically organize information and draw reasonable conclusions based on your analysis.
Logical Reasoning
The logical reasoning section has between 25-28 questions. You are usually presented with a statement or an argument and you must answer questions based on the conclusions you draw from it. This section of the exam is the most important part of the LSAT, since the two logical reasoning sections account for about 50% of your scaled score.
Writing Sample
The writing sample section is 30 minutes. You will be asked to advocate a particular position based on the issue presented. No prior knowledge on the subject matter is necessary. Law schools may use the essay as a comparison to the writing style of your personal statement, or to see how you answer a question under pressure, but generally as long as you take a position and actually answer the question, the writing sample will not have a significant impact on your admission to law school.
LSAT Tips
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Most importantly, there is no penalty for guessing. It is obviously in your best interest to answer every single question on the exam, even if it is a complete guess.
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Time Management- The LSAT is made up of questions that range from extremely easy to almost impossible. It is essential to manage your time well and not to spend too much time on any particular question. If you cannot find an answer, narrow it down the best you can and guess.
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Prepare psychologically to take the exam only once. Go into the exam confident and well prepared and there will be no reason for you to have to go through this grueling process again. Remember, if you do take the LSAT more than once, schools usually will average the two scores together. Of course, if you really bomb, there may not be any other choice, but prepare the first time as if you do not have the option to take it again.
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Prepare, Prepare, Prepare - Take the time to really put your self in the best position possible to ace the exam. Sacrificing now, will pay off dearly later.
LSAT FAQs
When Should I take the LSAT?
The ideal time to take the LSAT is the summer after your junior year. This will provide ample time to study and then during the fall semester, you can spend more time preparing your application, studying, and enjoying your senior year. SU students may prefer the October exam since the summer exam may conflict with finals. The October and December exams are also ok, but by the time February roles around, law schools have already begun accepting applicants and your chances of getting admitted will have diminished. Of course, whichever date you choose to take the exam, you must ensure that you are fully prepared. Don't take the exam as a way to practice. Make sure when you do sit for the LSAT, you are fully prepared.
How do I register for the LSAT?
The best way to find out more information about the LSAT and to register for the LSAT and LSDAS is to go to the LSAC (Law School Admission Council) Web site located at: www.lsac.org.
Should I take a LSAT prep class?
If you are extremely disciplined, then you can probably purchase an LSAT prep book at any bookstore, take the practice questions and tests, adhere to the schedule they provide and you'll probably be fine. Prep courses, though, are valuable and in most cases guarantee that your scores will improve if you follow their methods. Although, they are expensive, it is well worth investing the money now to ensure that you'll get the best score possible and get into the school of your choosing. Whether you take a course or not, you will only do well by taking practice questions, taking sample tests, and toward the end of your studying taking an exam under timed conditions. Student Reviews of LSAT prep courses.
Can I cancel my score after the exam?
If you think that you did not have your best day, you can cancel your score up to five days after taking the exam. It will show up on your record that you have cancelled your score, but the score will not be released. You may not cancel your score after you have received it.
What is the LSDAS?
The LSDAS (Law School Data Assembly Service) according to the LSAC, "provides a means of centralizing and standardizing undergraduate academic records to simplify the law school admission process." "The LSDAS prepares and provides a report for each law school to which you apply. The report contains biographic, academic and LSAT score information." Almost all ABA accredited schools require applicants to use the LSDAS. For more information visit the LSAC Web site: www.lsac.org. | 
