“I plan to write the ______ LSAT, when should I start studying?” I get this question all the time. The truth is, there isn’t one “start date” that is right for everyone. The right timeline for you will depend on a few contextual factors. Here are three broad categories of test-takers, and the timelines that best fit their general circumstances.

The Essentialist

The “essentialist” begins studying for the LSAT 6 weeks before their test date. 

The “essentialist” is running up against a tight timeline. They are determined to being law school in the next application cycle. The next LSAT is 6 weeks away and it is the only sitting they are able to write. In most cases, this is because the schools to which they are applying have a strict cut off. In some cases, this is because of extraneous life circumstances that make other taste dates impractical. 

The “essentialist” is focused on the bare minimum required to get the score they need. They will learn the basics of formal logic, tour the four main game types, and learn an approach to reading comprehension. 

The “essentialist” will need a fair bit of time to study in order to cover so much material in so little time. They should aim for at least 15 hours a week of study time. They will take around 4-6 practice tests before their test date. 


The Idealist

The “idealist” beings studying for the LSAT 4 months before their test date. 

The “idealist” has a flexible timeline. They are beginning their LSAT journey long before earliest cut off dates in the autumn. Alternatively, they are open-minded about which application cycle they participate in. 

The “idealist” is hoping to reach their top possible score. They want to learn the nuances of the test, fine-tune their performance, and learn skills that will apply beyond the LSAT. They will learn advanced formal logic, master rare game types, and hone their reading comprehension skills. 

The “idealist” will want to spend around 10 hours a week studying. They want to cover a large amount of material, but don’t want to get burnt out. They will spend the first 3 months learning concepts, and the last month focused on practice tests. They may take as many as 10-15 practice tests. 

The Juggler 

The “juggler” being studying for the LSAT 6 months before their test date. 

The “juggler” is managing many competing demands on their time. In order to accomodate an unpredictable schedule, they are beginning their LSAT journey far in advance of their preferred test date. They may have a demanding job, kids to take care of, or both. 

The “juggler” is hoping to reach their top possible score, but realizes that life might present some obstacles. They want to learn advanced techniques of verbal and visual reasoning, but are open-minded about focusing on the basics. 

The “juggler” will spend variable time studying each week, but will aim for a minimum average of 5 hours a week. They want to cover as much material as they can, but they also have other priorities. They understand that the LSAT is a performance, and self-care is a critical component. They will take at least 6 practice tests before their test date. 

I can help you get started with an LSAT timeline made just for you.
 
Contact me for your free 30 minutes coaching session.  I have seen the inside of several LSAT preparation operations and can provide you candid advice on where to focus your LSAT prep. As a licensed lawyer, I can also offer guidance on your overall application and career goals. 

If you are interesting in working with Supreme LSAT, we offer online LSAT tutoring on a pay-as-you-go-basis at a rate of 97/hr. You can adjust your tutoring schedule on a week-by-week basis, and work with your tutor on a manageable home-work plan.