Free LSAT Practice Test - Prepare for Your Law School Admissions Exam

Understanding the LSAT Exam

The LSAT (Law School Admission Test) is a standardized test required for admission to law schools in the United States, Canada, and a growing number of other countries. It is designed to measure skills that are considered essential for success in law school.

LSAT Test Structure

The current LSAT consists of four main sections plus an unscored writing sample:

• Logical Reasoning (2 sections): Tests your ability to analyze, evaluate, and complete arguments
• Analytical Reasoning (Logic Games): Measures your ability to understand relationships and draw conclusions
• Reading Comprehension: Assesses your ability to read complex texts with understanding and insight
• Experimental Section (unscored): Used to test new questions for future exams
• Writing Sample (unscored): Although not scored, it is sent to law schools as part of your application

LSAT Scoring System

The LSAT is scored on a scale of 120 to 180, with 180 being the highest possible score. The score is based on the number of questions answered correctly (raw score), which is then converted to the scaled score.

History of the LSAT

The LSAT was first administered in 1948 and was created to provide law schools with a standardized measure of certain analytical skills that are important for legal study. The test has undergone several changes over the years, most notably the elimination of the "logic games" section (Analytical Reasoning) which will be replaced with a new section starting in 2024.

The writing sample became digitally administered in 2019, and the test transitioned to a fully digital format in 2020 with the introduction of the LSAT-Flex during the COVID-19 pandemic, which eventually evolved into the current LSAT format.

LSAT vs. GRE

While most law schools accept the LSAT, some now also accept the GRE. Here are some key differences:

• Focus: The LSAT specifically tests skills relevant to legal reasoning, while the GRE is a more general graduate school exam
• Structure: The LSAT has consistent question types, while the GRE includes verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing sections
• Scoring: The LSAT uses a 120-180 scale, while the GRE uses 130-170 for verbal and quantitative sections
• Acceptance: While most law schools accept the LSAT, only some accept the GRE

How to Prepare for the LSAT

Effective LSAT preparation involves several strategies:

• Take Practice Tests: Familiarize yourself with the test format and question types under timed conditions
• Develop Logical Reasoning Skills: Practice identifying argument structures, flaws, and assumptions
• Master Logic Games: Develop diagramming techniques for analytical reasoning questions
• Improve Reading Comprehension: Practice reading dense, complex texts quickly and accurately
• Learn Time Management: The LSAT is a timed test, so pacing is crucial

LSAT Question Types

The LSAT includes several specific question types:

• Logical Reasoning: Argument-based questions including assumption, flaw, strengthening, weakening, and inference questions
• Analytical Reasoning: Logic games involving grouping, ordering, and matching tasks
• Reading Comprehension: Passage-based questions testing understanding, structure, and tone

When to Take the LSAT

Most students take the LSAT during the year before they plan to enter law school. The test is offered multiple times per year (typically in January, February, March, April, June, July, August, September, October, and November). It's recommended to take the test at least a year before you plan to start law school to allow time for retakes if necessary.

FAQ: LSAT Testing

How long is the LSAT?

The standard LSAT is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes long, including breaks. With the writing sample, the total testing time is about 4 hours.

How many times can I take the LSAT?

You can take the LSAT up to 3 times in a single testing year, 5 times within the current and past 5 testing years, and 7 times total.

What's a good LSAT score?

A "good" LSAT score depends on the law schools you're applying to. Generally, scores above 160 are considered competitive for many law schools, while top-tier law schools often look for scores above 170.

Should I take the LSAT or GRE for law school?

If you're certain you want to attend law school, the LSAT is generally preferred. If you're considering multiple graduate programs, the GRE might be more versatile. Check with the specific law schools you're interested in.

How is the LSAT scored?

You earn points for correct answers, and there's no penalty for wrong answers (so you should never leave questions blank). Raw scores are converted to scaled scores through a process called equating.

Can I use a calculator on the LSAT?

No, calculators are not permitted on any section of the LSAT.

LSAT Test Day Tips

• Get plenty of sleep for several nights before the test
• Eat a healthy breakfast on test day
• Arrive at the test center early with all required materials
• Pace yourself during the test - the LSAT has strict time limits
• Answer every question since there's no penalty for guessing
• Use process of elimination on difficult questions
• Stay calm and focused throughout the test