1. Preparing Candidates for Success In Law School: An Insider’s Look At
The LSAT & LSAC Services
Isabelle M. Ramos, LSAC Ambassador February 4, 2020
My presentation will offer an inside look into:
- each component of the LSAT
- how the LSAT prepares candidates for success in law school
- and, other important services that LSAC offers
The Law School Admission Council or “LSAC” is a non-profit education organization that promotes quality, access, and equity in law and education worldwide by supporting each candidate’s enrollment journey because we know that their success in legal education is essential to building a just and prosperous world. In addition, LSAC provides pre-eminent assessment, data, and technology services to member law schools, prelaw advisors, and other legal education partners. We are located in Newtown, PA and serve ABA-approved law schools in the U.S., Canada, and Australia.
Now, let’s jump right-in to what the LSAT is.
Building a Just and Prosperous World

2. The LSAT Fairness, Validity, Readiness Critical Thinking Skills
Candidate preparation and performance translates to first-year of law school (1L)
Results are tested for validity
No tricks or secrets to answering test questions correctly
Test questions are reviewed by a diverse team of Test Developers
Accessible for candidates and law schools
Before the Law School Admission Test was first administered in the late-1940’s, law schools had separate admission tests and practices that lacked objectivity. Now, LSAC offers a pre-eminent tool for admission to fairly evaluate applicants.
The LSAT was designed from the ground up to meet the needs of law schools.
It’s not a “one size fits all” post-graduate test.
It was designed to test skills needed to do well in law school.
Essentially, the LSAT is a test of Critical Thinking Skills so no prior knowledge of the law or any particular subject is required to do well. No matter if it’s a Common Law or civil law system, critical-thinking skills are essential when dealing with a set of facts that is novel, when there is no existing law that applies directly. The challenges presented in the LSAT mirror the first-year law school experience and serve to help candidates as they transition to a new learning environment.
Validity:
Each test is put through a statistical process by which the scores for any particular test date are equivalent. You get no advantage by taking the test on one date instead of another.
If a question is worded in an apparently complicated manner, that is done to make the question completely clear, not to deceive. Every test is designed to have a certain number of questions at all levels of difficulty. Some easy, some medium, and some hard. So while the overall difficulty of the test is hard, some questions are easy.
Correct answers are distributed randomly, within certain broad constraints. Not worth worrying about. You should answer each question on the basis of what you think is the best answer, and don’t worry about patterns in the series of questions.

3. reading COMPREHENSION
LSAT Format & Content
3 Hours
4 scored multiple-choice sections: 35 minutes each
Total of scored multiple-choice questions
1 unscored multiple-choice section (35 minutes)
1 unscored writing sample
reading COMPREHENSION
LOGICAL REASONING
ANALYTICAL REASONING
WRITING SAMPLE
Poll the audience: Has anyone in the audience actually taken the LSAT? Great, tell me what did you think about it? Yes, the LSAT is a challenging test and I hope that with a closer look at the Format & Content of the LSAT, we can help candidates prepare for success and overcome test anxiety.
(Read slide and title for boxes)
As of June 2019, candidates will complete the LSAT Writing after sitting for their multiple choice test and may complete this section up to 1 year after their test date.
Two sections
Off-site
Flexible test day
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

4. Reading Comprehension
LSAT questions are designed to prepare candidates for reading that is complex and involves intricate arguments.
Read one complex passage … OR
two related passages—Comparative Reading
About 450–500 words in total
Answer 5–8 questions
4 Reading Comprehension sets per test
Variety of topics: Humanities, Natural Science, Social Science, Law Related
The Reading Comprehension section tests the Candidate’s ability to read with understanding and insight, fairly lengthy passages of dense and logically or rhetorically complex prose. The relevance of this to law school should be obvious. If you go to law school, you’re going to be doing a lot of reading. And it’s not light reading. Law school reading includes cases, contracts, statutes, law journal articles and more!
(Read slide: The Reading questions on the test are designed to prepare candidates for reading that is complex and involves intricate arguments.)
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

5. Logical Reasoning
LSAT questions are designed to prepare candidates to understand, analyze, evaluate, and draw inferences from short arguments.
Short argumentative passages (20–100 words);1 question about each passage
About 25 questions per Logical Reasoning section; about 50 per test
Topics include: politics and government, economics, medicine, psychology, natural sciences, education, ethics
Formats offered: excerpts from articles, editorials, letters to the editor, dialogues, advertisements
Familiarity with terms such as: argument, inference, assumption, conclusion, and premise
Relevance to law school is again pretty clear. You not only have to read a lot in law school and understand what you’re reading, you have to be able to understand and analyze arguments that you will read or hear.
(Read Slide)
For example, candidates will be asked to identify what an argument is trying to establish (its conclusion), whether it’s a valid argument, what the flaw is if it’s not valid, what hidden assumptions it has, if any
When used in an LSAT question, the term argument isn’t referring to a dispute between two news anchors, for example.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

6. Analytical Reasoning
LSAT questions are designed to prepare candidates to understand a structure of relationships and draw conclusions about that structure.
Read a passage of up to 130 words that describes a scenario and a set of rules that apply to it
Answer 5–7 questions about what can or must be the case
The scenarios involve various kinds of relationships, such as:
above, next to
before, after
group membership
Four AR sets per test section
Many candidates often refer to this section as “Logic Games” and either love it or hate it.
This section tests the candidate’s ability to analyze and draw inferences within a rule-based system. Many legal systems, including the US, have rules and procedures that can often dictate the outcome of the case or applicability of precedent.
(Read slide)
Poll audience: How many of you have done an AR question? How did you feel about it?
Let’s look at one together.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

7. Sample Analytical Reasoning Passage
Exactly six guideposts, numbered 1 through 6, mark a mountain trail. Each guidepost pictures a different one of six animals– fox, grizzly, hare, lynx, moose, or porcupine.
The following conditions must apply:
The grizzly is pictured on either guidepost 3 or guidepost 4.
The moose guidepost is numbered lower than the hare guidepost.
The lynx guidepost is numbered lower than the moose guidepost but higher than the fox guidepost.
As we read this example, you might think this looks nothing like a law school exam question or have any connection to what you might be doing in law school, but- it does! This passage is an example of a constraint problem—you are looking at the combined implications of a set of rules. There is a close analogy to a legal statute, a tax code, or any other body of law. This is closer to the types of things you do in law school than you might think.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

8. Writing Sample
This section of the LSAT is designed to prepare candidates to write clear and persuasive arguments based on the facts presented in the prompt.
Prompt: decide between alternative courses of action using given criteria
Not scored by LSAC
Completed writing sample is sent to law schools for their use in evaluating applicants
35 minutes
Flexible date, time, and location
(Read Slide)
No longer part of the LSAT test day. You can decide where/when to take. Take once or with each LSAT taken.
You should take it seriously. Most law schools do look at these. If your writing sample is half-hearted or frivolous, you could very easily lose standing in the eyes of an admissions person.
This is a test of writing. There is no right answer: choose an alternative that allows you to showcase clear, persuasive writing. I.e., choose the one that you think you can make the best case for.
Recent survey: Most law schools (2/3) read them at least sometimes. Some law schools (1/3) look at them frequently or always.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

9. LSAT Writing: Steps to Completion
Candidates can access LSAC Writing from their LSAC account. After they download PSI Software and complete security steps (approx. 15 minutes) including a room scan and ID check, candidates can launch the LSAT Writing section.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

10. LSAT Writing Features
Interface includes common word-processing functions, including:
Spell-check
Cut, copy, and paste text
Includes variety of accessibility features, such as zoom buttons, an extra spacing button, and speech-to-text compatibility
Download PSI Software and complete security steps (approx. 15 minutes)
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

11. The Digital LSAT Microsoft Surface Go tablet, July 2019
LSAC is committed to ensuring accessibility for test takers with disabilities. The Digital LSAT offers flexible type sizes, a built-in-screen reader and other enhancements that will assist test takers who need these options.
Highlight with the ability to use multiple colors along with the ability to erase
Underlining capability
Line spacing (increase or decrease)
Brightness adjustable
Secure testing
Easier check-in on test day
No Standardized Timing issues
In order to continue to offer a pre-eminent assessment tool, LSAC has announced a technology collaboration with Microsoft that will include the use of thousands of Microsoft Surface Go tablets. The LSAT exam transitions to a digital format beginning with the July 2019 LSAT test. After the July 2019 test, the LSAT will be digital in North America starting September 2019.
The structure of the test sections and test questions will not be any different than the paper-and-pencil LSAT. For the July 2019 test, some test takers will be assigned pencil-and-paper tests, and some will be assigned digital tests, this is for LSAC test developers to evaluate which is a best practice under educational testing standards to assure that there is no statistical advantage between the formats.
Unlike any other testing date- all July 15, 2019 test takers will have the opportunity to see their score and will have five days to decide whether they wish to cancel it. Those who decide to cancel will have the option of retaking the test one time free of charge in the 2019–2020 testing cycle, which extends through April 2020.
(Read slide and accessibility info)
In addition to the features that make the Digital LSAT accessible, we are proud to provide candidates with a secure testing platform with the Microsoft GO. Maintaining the security of the exam content and scores is extremely important. Independent testing of our patented processes has proven that the test questions and the candidates’ answers are secure from end-to-end of the entire testing, scoring, and reporting process.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

12. Digital LSAT Features
Microsoft Surface Go tablets, scratch paper, and a stylus/pen will provided on test day at test center.
Test takers can bring No. 2 pencils, erasers, and other items noted.
Test takers can select answer choices with a “tap” as well as underline and highlight text on the tablet.
The tablet displays a timer with a five- minute warning and auto-stop feature to reduce proctoring issues.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

13. Get acquainted with the Digital LSAT
LSAC offers a free Digital LSAT familiarization tutorial in the
Test Prep section of LSAC.org
To help candidates prepare for the digital LSAT, LSAC offers a free Digital LSAT familiarization tutorial in the Test Prep section of LSAC.ORG
Using any internet-connected device you will be able to see all the details on how the tablet tst works so that you can feel confident on test day.
*** We are developing other digital test-preparation materials that will be available early in 2019 for use on your own device***
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

14. Khan Academy Official LSAT Prep
Candidates may begin preparing and practicing for the LSAT by creating an account with Khan or utilizing one of the Official LSAT Prep books featured on LSAC.org.
LSAC has made a huge investment in making preparation accessible and affordable by collaborating with the Khan Academy to offer FREE Official LSAT Prep.
Poll Audience: How many of you have used Khan Academy to help with your school work?
The Khan Academy takes an individualized approach to helping candidates prepare for the LSAT. Candidates will be able to complete a diagnostic LSAT in order to get feedback from Khan on how they can improve their performance
The Khan Academy offers Videos and written explanations to help candidates meet their goals. With Khan, candidates have free access to official LSAT questions:
*Over 40 complete LSATs, including 5 that have never been published as PrepTests
*Over 500 extra, “leftover” LSAT questions that never appeared on the test
In addition, our test writers have created a full line of official LSAT preparation books for the highest quality and most economical practice on actual tests. LSAT PrepTest books and eBooks are available from your favorite bookseller.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

15. I just took my first Khan Academy official LSAT practice test
I just took my first Khan Academy official LSAT practice test. I increased from my diagnostic test 8 points! I am truly gaining so much knowledge and confidence from the Khan Academy LSAT test prep!
ASHLEY, via Twitter
Since the Khan Academy Official LSAT Prep was launched in June 2018, we have received positive feedback from candidates about their experience. Here’s a quote from Ashley on Twitter. In all, to improve LSAT performance- LSAC Test Developers recommend that candidates practice, practice, practice! Now, let’s talk about what else is new for 2019.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

16. Now, let’s hear from a current law student about how her LSAT preparation translated to law school.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

17. LSAC Services & Web Features
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion grant opportunities, pipeline programs, scholarship information
Student Stories, Field of Law Quiz, and Law School Search Tool
Access data in Reports, register to attend an LSAC Forum, submit an Ambassador request
Credential Assembly Services (CAS) for Candidates applying to law school
LSAC’s Fee Waiver program
Discover Law
Prelaw dashboard
Forums
Cas & LSAT Fee Waiver
Beyond getting acquainted with the digital LSAT, we encourage all prelaw advisors and students to utilize LSAC services and web features. LSAC.org is the go-to website for information and data about law school.
(Read slide) On LSAC.org you will find, under Discover Law, Student Stories, etc.)
Poll audience: How many of you have an LSAC account? For those who do not, it’s a simple process to create your account login. to be added to the LSAC prelaw database!
Prelaw advisors at minority designated institutions may be eligible for an LSAC travel subsidy in order to attend a Forum with your students or professional development conference like this one.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

18. LSAC Prelaw Programs, Events, & Forums
PLUS
EVENTS
LSAC FORUMS
Four-week law school immersion programs designed for students in the first two years of college.
Apply Spring 2020
Summer start-end dates
Accommodations On-campus
$1,000 stipend
Improve reading, writing, and networking skills
Participate in a pipeline program or recruitment event near you.
Diversity Matters Events
Regional and Statewide Prelaw Events
Prelaw Summer Programs by CLEO and AILC
LSAC.org Calendar
LSAC sponsors Law School Forums in 10 major cities.
Participate in Workshops lead by experts in the field
Meet Law School Deans serving on Panels
Speak with prelaw advisors
Connect with over 115+ law schools
LSAC’s PLUS Program is a Four-week law school immersion programs designed for students in the first two years of college. Students must apply to participate in a PLUS program. Participants receive a $1,000 stipend for their participation PLUS Schools each have their own PLUS program application and guidelines, we encourage you to contact them directly:
The University of Akron School Law
The University of Alabama School of Law
Chapman University Dale E. Fowler School of Law
University of Houston Law Center
St. John’s University School of Law
University of Wisconsin Law School
The feedback we receive from PLUS alumni about their experience is outstanding.
Other recruitment events and law school admission programs targeted to prelaw students can be found on LSAC.org. LSAC sponsors over 100 Diversity Matters events hosted by law schools across the country each year. Regional prelaw advisor associations also organize programs throughout the year that allow prospective students to learn about what a law degree is. LSAC’s partner organizations, the Council on Legal Education Opportunity (CLEO) and the American Indian Law Center (AILC) offer intensive summer prelaw programs for students that have applied to law school.
Finally, LSAC Forums are the largest law school recruitment events that many candidates attend at various stages in their journey to law school. At the Forum, you will be able to participate in workshops on financial aid, meet deans of law schools that you may apply to, get feedback and guidance from experienced prelaw advisors, and meet dace-to-face with representations from over 115+ law schools! If you’re in DC this July, please consider registering to attend the DC Forum.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

19. Credential Assembly Services (CAS)
Most American Bar Association-approved law schools and many others require that JD applicants use CAS.
Sign-up with LSAC account
Letters of Recommendation, Transcript(s), LSAT Score(s), Writing Sample(s)
Assign “required” materials to each law school application
CAS Registration Fee $195
CAS Report Fee $45 (for each law school)
CAS Report for Law Schools
At anytime during your education journey, you may begin gathering your official credentials, such as transcripts and letters of recommendations, for LSAC to compile and distribute to law schools that you ultimately decide to apply to. You do not have to take the LSAT or actually be ready to apply to law school in order to utilize LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service (CAS, for short). The first step is to sign-up with CAS using your LSAC account login. There is no fee to sign up for CAS, you pay the registration fee when you are ready for LSAC to create your CAS Report and submit your application materials.
 *It takes approximately two weeks to process a transcript and up to five working days to process a paper letter of recommendation from the time we receive it. Electronic letters of recommendation are usually available as soon as we receive them.
Pay attention to each law school’s application requirements as the minimum and maximum number of Letters of Recommendation will vary.
Your CAS fee covers the electronic application processing for all LSAC-member law schools. Completing applications electronically will save you time; generic application sections are pre-filled with information from your account. You can add schools to your CAS school list, making it easy to work on your selected applications.
For example, if you decide to apply to 15 different law schools, you only have to request your credentials be sent one time to one place- LSAC.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

20. LSAT Fee Waiver
Candidates should complete the Fee Waiver application six weeks before the LSAT registration deadline. Approval is based on the absolute inability to pay for the LSAT and CAS.
Sign-up with LSAC account
Two LSATs
Test dates must fall within two-year fee waiver period
CAS Registration Fee
Six CAS Law School Reports
Conditional Approval
Appeal Process
See
If candidate is not approved initially, they can choose to complete the Appeal Process and submit required documents within 45 days. They will receive conditional approval for a fee waiver until the appeal process is completed. If appeal is denied the candidate will be billed for the required costs.
It typically takes about 2 weeks for the appeals committee to review the documents and make a recommendation. The candidate will be notified as soon as a decision is available.
Many law schools will waive their admission application fee if you can show that you were granted an LSAC Fee Waiver.
© 2020 Law School Admission Council, Inc

21. Thank you.
and
Stay Connected
@Official_LSAT
@LSACDiversity
@LSACForums
Thank you for your attentiveness and for taking the time to learn about the LSAT and the services that LSAC offers. We hope that you will share this information with your students so that together we can support them on their journey to law school and help build a just and prosperous world.
Building a Just and Prosperous World