To Addendum or Not To Addendum

[2k2e]

When should you addendum with GPA and LSAT?

[Adam Tyson]

My two cents here, 2k2e, and probably worth half that much, but I don't see any reason for an addendum here. Your LSAT is great, the score increase is within normal range, and any explanation will come off as "I didn't really try hard the first time" - not a good message to send. Most schools will only be interested in the high score, and those few that still consider an average won't change that average due to your addendum. There are no special mitigating circumstances there.

Same thing with your GPA, for the most part. Your transcript will speak for itself, and what can you say that won't come off as "I took on too heavy a load to get straight A's", which (devil's advocate here, no disrespect intended) could sound like poor planning on your part. Maybe there is something positive you can say about your undergraduate experience in your personal statement? Something that explains the heavier load and a few lower grades with a positive spin? If you can't explain it in a way that makes you look better than the transcript itself does, don't do it.

Nice looking numbers! Focus now on glowing letters of recommendation and a killer personal statement. Good luck!