This time last year, I spent my summer studying for the LSAT for the first time. It was unlike any test I had ever taken. In my experience, even the most difficult university exams didn’t come close to the effort and focus required. The LSAT demands a unique level of preparation, mentally, emotionally, and strategically.
Fast-forward to today: I’m preparing to take the LSAT again. After receiving a score I wasn’t satisfied with, I knew I could have done better, but I also realized there wasn’t much guidance out there for people retaking the exam. Most advice is written for first-time test takers. So over the past few months, I’ve been building a better system for myself, one that addresses the mistakes I made the first time around and helps me show up stronger for this next attempt.
If you’re preparing to retake the LSAT, or taking it for the first time and want to do it right — here are five key lessons that have changed the game for me:
1. Make a Clear Plan of Action
Last year, I created a study plan and only followed it for a few weeks before slipping into the habit of fitting LSAT prep around everything else. This time, I took a different approach.
I built a weekly study schedule that clearly outlines which days I study Logical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, when I drill specific question types, and when I take full-length, timed practice tests. Having this structure means I’m not wasting energy deciding what to study — I just show up and get it done.
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2. Prioritize Accuracy Over Speed
The LSAT is not like any other exam. You can’t cram for it. You can’t “study everything” and then test yourself. You learn by practicing, trying, failing, reviewing, and trying again.
When I restarted my prep, I took a diagnostic test since I hadn’t looked at an LSAT question in months. Then I completed a blind review, analyzing every question to understand what I missed and why. Now, I take one full-time practice test every 1–2 weeks, along with multiple timed sections during the week.
This was one of my biggest mistakes the first time around, I kept “learning” and reviewing theory without testing myself early enough. It felt productive, but it wasn’t effective.
As a psychology student, I also rediscovered one of the most powerful study techniques: Active Recall — a method that focuses on long-term memory and comprehension. And guess what? Timed practice tests are one of the best tools for it. Every test improves your timing, logic, and confidence.
3. Prioritize Rest & Your “Bare Minimum Task”
The LSAT can be mentally exhausting, especially when you’re balancing work, school, or life responsibilities. This time around, I’ve committed to resting without guilt and showing up with a realistic minimum, even on hard days.
Here’s what that looks like:
- Drilling just 5 questions on your weakest LR type
- Reading one RC passage and identifying the author’s voice tone, structure, and main point
- Reviewing 3–5 previously missed questions
These are my “bare minimum tasks.” They keep me moving forward without burning out. Rest is necessary — but so is consistency.
4. Focus on Accuracy Before Speed
This next tip is definitely easier said than done.
During my first time doing LSAT prep, I took timed tests, and would start calm and focused, but the moment I realized there was very little time remaining and the pressure kicked in, I started to rush, make mistakes, and lost points.
Here’s what I’ve learned: You don’t need to answer every question to hit your goal score. Once you know the scaled score you’re aiming for, calculate how many questions you realistically need to get right.
By focusing on accuracy, you are ensuring that you truly understand why you are answering each question, not just guessing to move on to the next question. Once you add back the time pressure, you can start to practice and develop strategies for keeping up your accuracy under the timed conditions.
5. Don’t Book Your Test Until You’re Ready
Let me say this loud and clear: Don’t book your LSAT just to stay on schedule. Book it when you’re ready.
The first time I took the LSAT, I scheduled my test four months out. Two months into studying, I knew I wouldn’t be ready, but I took it anyway because I felt like I had to.
This time, I’m doing it differently. I’m waiting until I’m consistently hitting my target scores on timed, full-length practice tests. If you’re not there yet, don’t rush. Your timeline is your own.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s your first time taking the LSAT or your third, the same principles apply:
- Make a clear, sustainable study plan
- Start with practice, not perfection
- Prioritize rest and consistency
- Focus on accuracy before speed
- Wait to test until you’re genuinely ready
Your score doesn’t define you. Your strategy, mindset, and resilience will carry you through this journey. They will guide you into law school.
You’ve got this. Happy studying.
Cahlia
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