Reading for the LSAT isn’t the same as reading for pleasure or even for college coursework. You have very little time to comprehend the material and make reasoned analyses, so make sure you keep these tips in mind to maximize your limited time.

  • Concentrate, concentrate, concentrate — even if you’re bored.

  • Work one reading passage at a time; answer all the questions, and then move on.

  • Skim the questions first. Then read the passage aggressively.

  • Focus on the big stuff and gloss over the details, going back to them if the questions ask you about them.

  • Mark important points in the passage, but don’t mark too much.

  • Think about the passage before you start the questions.

  • Refer back to the passage as often as necessary.

  • Try answering questions without reading the passage first.

  • If the questions direct you to a specific word or line, read several lines above and below it so you understand the context.

  • Don’t use any information not contained in the passage; forget what you know or believe about the subject.

  • Read all answers and eliminate the wrong ones.

  • If the question asks you for what the passage states, indicates, or asserts, the right answer is a statement or paraphrase of information directly stated in the passage, so don’t make an inference.

  • If the question asks you for what the passage implies or suggests, the right answer requires a logical inference based on the passage.

  • When you finish a passage, forget it and clear your brain for the next one.

About This Article

This article is from the book:

About the book authors:

Lisa Zimmer Hatch served as VP of The Center for Legal Studies, where she created standardized test preparation. Currently, she is an Independent College Counselor and president of College Primers.

Scott A. Hatch develops courses for a variety of careers and assists those seeking advanced degrees in law, business, and other professions.

Lisa Zimmer Hatch served as VP of The Center for Legal Studies, where she created standardized test preparation. Currently, she is an Independent College Counselor and president of College Primers.

Scott A. Hatch develops courses for a variety of careers and assists those seeking advanced degrees in law, business, and other professions.

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