The LSAT

The LSAT (Law School Admission Test) is a standardized test administered four times a year to all law school hopefuls. Test centers are located all over the U.S. and are typically given at college campuses on Saturday mornings; however, there is the option to take the test on a Sunday if you are a Saturday Sabbath religious observer.

The test usually takes about half a day to complete and consists of six 35 minute sections. Five of the sections are multiple choice, and the sixth is a writing section. It is important to note, however, that only four of the five multiple choice sections actually contribute to the individual’s final score. The test throws in an extra section known as an experimental to not only agitate the test taker, but try out new test sections. I will discuss the multiple choice sections and writing section, along with ways to study for each, in future posts.

You can register for the LSAT online through your LSAC account, through the mail, or via telephone. I suggest going through your LSAC account, since it is the easiest method and allows you to quickly choose your test center and download your LSAT ticket.

According to the LSAT website, the LSAT measures, “…skills that are considered essential for success in law school: the reading and comprehension of complex texts with accuracy and insight; the organization and management of information and the ability to draw reasonable inferences from it; the ability to think critically; and the analysis and evaluation of the reasoning and arguments of others.”

To what extent this is true, I haven’t the slightest; however, as a potential law student it is what has to be taken and tackled to make your way to law school.