LSAT: Prep Course vs. Self-Study

Your LSAT score is an important factor when being evaluated by law school admissions. It is important for you to get the best possible score you can. If you are serious about taking the LSAT, then the first thing to do is figure out how you want to study for the test.

Many students like to take a prep course, study by themselves or do a combination of both. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of prep courses and self-study.

Prep Course
Many students feel the need to enroll themselves in a LSAT prep course. There are many courses out there so research which ones may be right for you. Courses are given by the usual big test prep companies as well as other companies that you can find on the web.

The advantage of taking an LSAT prep course is that you are forced to study. You will have to show up to a classroom and be lectured by an instructor. You will be given a test prep book from which to work from. If you feel that you lack self-discipline, then a prep course might be for you.

The disadvantage of taking an LSAT prep course is the cost. You will have to fork over some cash to attend these classes. You may or may not be satisfied with your investment at the end of the course. Always be sure to research your choices. Ask them how their classes work and what kind of materials and practice tests they use. If you feel it’s a good deal, go for it.

Remember, even though you are taking a course, you will have homework. Plan to spend hours of outside time studying and practicing.

Self Study
If you cannot afford a test prep course or if you feel like you don’t benefit from group learning, then self-study might be an option. There’s nothing wrong with self-study. If you are disciplined and self-motivated, you will do the same if not better than a student in a test prep course.

There are many free resources on the web that will help you dissect the LSAT. You can find information on the breakdown of the test as well as how to understand the structures underlying the questions.

Take a practice test to see which sections are your strengths and which sections need some serious study time. Be honest with yourself and your skills. Students tend to practice sections they are already good at because its fun to do well. Don’t get caught in this trap. Plough through those difficult sections over and over until you can identify everything the test is throwing at you.

It’s also recommended to buy a study book if you plan to go it alone. Study books will have some excellent test taking tips that will no doubt help you master the test.

If you find that you’re still not ready, you can try a test prep course or an online test prep class. Online tutorials can be significantly cheaper than a classroom instructed course.

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