Seeking LSAT guidance

[alexandrahamer]

Hi! I would love some guidance and advice on LSAT prep.

To give a brief background on my LSAT journey... my first diagnostic was 148. I self-studied with your LG and LR bibles and they have been a huge help. I started studying last March, but have been studying hardcore (about 4-8 hours a day from June-August, one full PT a week) and have definitely seen an increase in my score because of your bibles. My scores from recent practice tests *untimed* are 160, 163, 159, 162, and 164.

However, I just took my first strict timed test and got a 155. I found myself pressed for time in all three sections, which further caused me to feel distracted and stressed. I also found that my worst section was RC, but I have not bought the PowerScore bible like I did for LG and LR, so that may be something to invest in...

My goal score is 165. I am currently registered for the September LSAT, however, I will definitely take the test in November as well. I feel stuck because I have been studying on and off for so long, so I am not quite sure what the best way is to use my time.

So, my questions are as follows:
1. Should I push back my test from September to November, if I know I will not reach my goal score?
2. Should I only take strict timed tests from now on?
3. What is the best way to use my time?
4. Is it possible to improve from 155 to 165 in three months?

Thank you for your time!

[Jonathan Evans]

Hi, Alexandra!

Thanks for explaining your situation and for the excellent questions!

1. Should I push back my test from September to November, if I know I will not reach my goal score?

Are you applying to law school for next fall admissions? If so, you may wish to continue with September to catch the first round of admissions. You are wise to keep your registration for November. On average, LSAT test takers improve their scores by 2.8 points between the first and second time they take the test. More repeater statistics and information is available here:

https://www.powerscore.com/lsat/help/ls ... istics.cfm

2. Should I only take strict timed tests from now on?

Yes! An emphatic yes to this question. Timed LSATs are the best way to get an accurate sense of your progress and develop essential pacing skills for the real thing. Use our virtual proctor to administer the test:

https://blog.powerscore.com/lsat/bid/15 ... al-proctor

Ideally, take 5-section versions of the LSAT. Grab an old LSAT; take out a random section; and mix it in with the four other sections on the more recent LSAT you're taking. This way you can model your experience after the real thing.

Consider also doing a blind review of your test before you score it. Here's some more information about reviewing LSATs from Dave Killoran:

https://blog.powerscore.com/lsat/the-be ... tice-tests

3. What is the best way to use my time?

Check out our self-study plans and check out the one-month plan. I understand your time is more limited than that, but you have likely already made substantial progress on the assignments from your previous studying. Jump in and follow along to get the most from the remaining time before the test. After you take the September exam, consider restarting with the 2-month version and work through it from start to finish, revisiting previous material to reinforce important concepts.

http://students.powerscore.com/self-study/

4. Is it possible to improve from 155 to 165 in three months?

Yes, this is possible. As in life, there are no sure-things in LSAT preparation, but be positive; remain focused; and feel confident that you will achieve your goals. This self-assurance translates into success with preparation.

If you are interested in other preparation options, private tutoring might best meet your needs considering your time frame and the preparation you have already done. More information about tutoring is available here:

https://www.powerscore.com/lsat/tutoring/

Please follow up with further questions. I hope this helps!