How to study for January

[24jpf2424]

Hi! So I took the September test and had been doing quite well on my practice tests before hand (averaging 170). My goal is to get a 170+ on the test. The September test screwed me though and I got a 165, so I want to retake it in January. I am wondering how I should study for the test. I have not used powerscore before, but heard amazing things. I am worried, though, about changing my strategies this late in the game. What should I do?

[KelseyWoods]

Hi 24jpf2424!

Great to hear that your practice tests are going well even if you didn't quite get your goal score on the September test! It would help to know more about what you've done to prepare for the test so far, which courses you've taken or books you've used, etc.. In general, I would say continue taking and reviewing practice tests, and then working on your weaknesses. You're already scoring really well so I wouldn't say you need to start from scratch with all new strategies! But it seems like you may really benefit from some individual tutoring. A tutor can help you assess your weaknesses, identify areas for improvement you hadn't even realized, and help you craft a study plan that is tailored to your goals. I have worked with tutoring students who had only taken non-PowerScore courses or used non-PowerScore books before we started. Instead of starting them completely from scratch, I assess where they already are and make adjustments to their current strategies by introducing them to the PowerScore strategies that will most benefit them. Sometimes that means a total overhaul of their Logic Game diagramming; sometimes that means clarifying concepts in Logical Reasoning or tweaking their Reading Comprehension approach.

Depending on which resources you've used to study with so far, you may find that PowerScore strategies are not as different as you were expecting, but rather deepen your understanding of the test by further clarifying how you should approach different sections and question types. So instead of thinking of it as completely changing your strategies, think of it as building on your already existing LSAT knowledge with additional tips, concepts, and approaches that will help you pick up the extra points you need to reach your target score!

Hope this helps! Good luck studying!

Best,
Kelsey

[Chrisfer]

Is it realistically too late to start studying for January now?

[Dave Killoran]

Is it realistically too late to start studying for January now?

No, but you will want to start immediately and study intensively! Either a course or a daily self-study plan would be the best and most organized approach.

Thanks!