For some aspiring law students, the hardest part about the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) isn’t so much the content, but rather figuring out how to start prepping for it. Success on the LSAT isn’t a measure of one’s innate intelligence. It’s the result of diligent preparation and strategic planning starting with an LSAT study schedule. 

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to create an LSAT study schedule tailored to get you to your goal score.

Yes, You Do Need a Study Schedule

You’ve likely taken standardized tests before with their fair share of passage-based reading questions. Additionally, logic is meant to be pretty straightforward, right?

The reality is, the LSAT tests more than your ability to read. Logical Reasoning questions assess your ability to analyze, evaluate, and complete arguments. Reading Comprehension questions expose you to reading material similar to what you’ll encounter in law school and ask you to distinguish precisely what is said from what is not said.

All the skills you’ll need to master for the LSAT require regular and consistent practice after you’ve built a strong foundation. An LSAT study schedule helps you plan your path to your target LSAT score. 

Further Reading

🔨 Breaking Down LSAT Question Types

💬 An Introduction to the LSAT Logical Reasoning Section

📖 How To Approach Reading Comp on the LSAT

How to Create an LSAT Study Plan

One of the most significant differences between top LSAT scores and average LSAT scores is an effective study plan. We outline how to create your own study plan below, but you can also let us take the guesswork out of it by using our free Study Planner Tool in the Blueprint LSAT account.

Step 1: Take a Diagnostic LSAT Test

The first step in any solid LSAT prep strategy is understanding where you’re starting. For those new to the LSAT, taking a diagnostic test is essential. 

This initial exposure to the types of LSAT questions and the pacing of the exam will give you an invaluable perspective on the areas you’ll need to focus your studies on. 

Don’t be surprised or discouraged if your diagnostic score is much lower than your goal score or law school’s median LSAT score. Remember, it’s a diagnosis of where you start and not a prognosis of where you’ll end up.

If you take Blueprint LSAT’s free diagnostic test, our in-depth analytics will show you exactly what your weaknesses and strengths are so you know exactly what you need to focus on in the coming weeks. 

Step 2: Be Honest About Your Schedule

Consistency is key when preparing for the LSAT. It requires carving out study sessions in your daily routine.

Assess your current commitments and responsibilities and decide how you can incorporate daily LSAT preparation. Remember, you don’t need to prep for 10 hours a day every day. The key is to be realistic and consistent.  

Thus, regular and manageable study sessions are far more effective than sporadic, intensive cramming.

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Step 3: Determine How Long You’re Going To Prep

Most people prep for the LSAT for about 2-3 months, 10-12 hours of study time each week. This duration allows for a thorough review of concepts and strategies, ample practice (including taking practice tests), and time for review and reflection. 

However, it’s also not uncommon to prep for longer if you’re balancing another full-time workload. The important thing to remember is not to rush through your prep. 

Inevitably, students ask if they can prep for the LSAT in one month. If you’re considering cramming for the LSAT in a month, be warned—it’s similar to rehearsing a dance routine moments before a performance. While not impossible, a more extended preparation period generally yields better outcomes.

If you’re really set on prepping for the LSAT in one month, download our sample one-month LSAT study schedule!

Final Thoughts

Remember, LSAT study schedules are never one-size-fits-all. What works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, take into consideration the importance of customizing your approach based on your diagnostic results, personal commitments, and learning style when creating your LSAT study schedule.

Achieving a good LSAT score is largely about dedication, consistent effort, and strategic preparation. While the test is undoubtedly challenging, remember that it is very learnable. With the right approach and mindset, the LSAT is a surmountable hurdle on your path to law school and beyond.

Remember, the best way to prepare for what is on the LSAT is with realistic test-day practice and guidance from veteran LSAT experts.

Blueprint Prep understands that every LSAT test-taker is unique.  Whether you have the discipline to study on your own with a Self-Paced Course, want to navigate the LSAT with instructors in a Live Course, or prefer one-on-one attention through tutoring, we have the study method that fits your learning style. 

Now that you know what to expect on the official LSAT, it’s time to get some practice in to help you reach your goal LSAT score. Get started for free today by creating a free Blueprint LSAT account!