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The Importance
of Using a Timer to Prepare for the LSAT
The LSAT is
an exam which tests a particular skill set, but it is also a test
of efficiency. To do well, you will need to be able to break down
information quickly and effectively. When you begin preparing for
the LSAT, if you have difficulty completing practice test sections
within the allotted time, this is not uncommon; the test makers
intend to make time constraints a significant part of the challenge.
This is why timed practice tests are vital to your preparation;
as you develop a greater familiarity with the test it is possible
to make significant gains in both accuracy and efficiency.
Your timer should
be a constant companion in your test preparation (if you would like
to purchase a silent timer we have them available on this site).
This will allow you to continually monitor your practice as you
strive to find a consistent pace at which to move comfortably and
confidently through each section of the test. By taking practice
tests under timed conditions, you more closely replicate the environment
that you will encounter on test day. While not all of your preparation
should be in the form of timed tests, we do suggest that you take
several timed practice tests, reviewing the incorrect answers afterwards
(off the clock).
As you are probably
aware, the LSAT contains four scored sections (plus an experimental
section that is irrelevant to our discussion here), each of
which is 35 minutes in length. For the Logical Reasoning sections,
which contain approximately 24-26 questions each, you will have
about 1 minute and 20 seconds for each question. The Reading
Comprehension and Analytical Reasoning
sections are divided into four parts (either by reading passage
or game, respectively), allowing 8 minutes and 45 seconds to complete
each section. As you prepare for the test, use the timer as often
as possible to determine what speed best maximizes your performance;
practicing under timed conditions allows you to not only push yourself
to move faster, but also to establish and maintain your own optimal
pace.
Although new
LSAC regulations prohibit the use of digital timers for LSAT administration
(analog watches are now the only acceptable form of time-keeping
on the actual test), using a timer can be an effective way to ensure
that your practice tests reflect the same time constraints as you
will experience on test day. When taking your timed practice tests,
keep in mind that this work will pay off, building not only practice
and familiarity with the test, but also physical endurance! Sitting
down for several hours answering questions at LSAT levels is not
meant to be easy, but just like any other type of endurance, it
gets easier as you go. |
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