When it comes to standardized testing, staying ahead of the curve is essential, and things are no different when it comes to grad school testing requirements. With the new LSAT format, aspiring law students might be unsure what this means for them. If you’ve already studied for the old LSAT, for example, you might be left wondering how to adjust your study approach to the new one– which is exactly why we wrote this blog in collaboration with Marks Education’s expert graduate tutoring team.
If by the end of this article, you’re still feeling unsure about your LSAT testing future, we’d love to schedule a time to chat. Each package at Marks Education comes with a complimentary 30 minute consultation to hear more about where you are in the process and to discuss how we could contribute to your test prep process. Don’t wait! Set up a time to chat now!
Understanding the Changes
The LSAT is transitioning to a new format starting with the August test. The June 2024 test marked the last administration in its current structure. Within this change, the most notable alteration is the removal of the logic games section, which was replaced by a second logical reasoning section. This change brings the LSAT back to its previous structure, reminiscent of the pre-pandemic days. However, despite these modifications, the overall structure of the test remains largely unchanged. Each section still retains the same duration and only has a slight increase in the number of questions.
Another upcoming change pertains to the LSAT essay, with the new format resembling that of the ACT®. While the LSAT essay has traditionally been unscored (and is currently remaining so), there are hints from higher-ups that scoring may be implemented in the future.
As Marks Education considers ways to help LSAT test-takers adapt to these changes, first and foremost it’s important to adjust your study strategies effectively and stay informed about exam modifications. With the right prep and a clear understanding of the changes that come with the new format, success on the new LSAT is more than achievable!
For more, check out our blog for more on the changes in the LSAT.
So, how do you study for the new LSAT?
Embrace the Fundamentals
While the format may have changed, the fundamentals of LSAT preparation remain the same. We still recommend that you focus on honing your analytical reasoning, logical reasoning, and reading comprehension skills— what we call the pillars of LSAT success.
Make sure that you utilize official LSAT-released practice tests and other study guides to reinforce necessary foundational skills and familiarize yourself with the new question types. And remember, (this is something we recommend to all of our students)– don’t give yourself grace on a practice test! Allowing yourself to have those extra 30-seconds to finish up a question, or grace when counting up your final score is just as detrimental on the new LSAT as the old one! Treat every practice test, (still!), like the real LSAT.
Adapt Your Study Plan
The most important thing about the new LSAT isn’t necessarily that it’s changing, but that you update your study plan. The very last thing you’d want is to study your heart out only to have misplaced your efforts. With the elimination of the logic games section, you want to make sure that you’re reallocating your study time and resources accordingly. Make sure to instead dedicate more time to mastering logical reasoning, as this section now carries greater weight in the new LSAT.
Stay Updated
Make sure to stay ahead of LSAT updates by regularly checking official LSAT resources and reputable test prep websites. Subscribe to newsletters and follow social media accounts dedicated to LSAT prep and receive timely updates on the test. This is also where you might meet other test takers who have their own valuable advice to give you.
Be sure to follow Marks Education on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to be notified when we release LSAT blogs.
Practice, Practice, Practice
As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. Set aside dedicated study time each week to work through LSAT practice questions and full-length practice tests. Take the time to mimic test-day conditions and practice in a distraction-free environment that adheres to the exact time constraints found on the official test. One of the biggest mistakes people make when preparing for any standardized test is not strictly adhering to accurate timing and scoring guidelines. Don’t go easy on yourself during a practice test! How you practice is how you play, and you want to be at your best on test day.
After a practice test, analyze your performance, identify areas for improvement, and tailor your study plan accordingly. This helps make sure that you’re effectively using your study time and adjusting for changes to optimize your progress. Need help? Marks Education is always there.