LSAT Is a Mindset, Not a Strategy (Ep. 334)
The LSAT makes perfect sense. The best way to improve is to focus on understanding one question at a time. Ben and Nathan explain why study methods that overemphasize strategy—at the expense of understanding—are counterproductive. Then, they dive into the listener mailbag and talk about what types of information might negatively impact a law school résumé. They wrap up with some comments on applying to law school as a veteran and/or with a criminal record.
As always, if you like the show and you want to get more from the Thinking LSAT community, check out the links below. You can connect with other folks studying for the LSAT and get more useful resources from Nathan and Ben.
2.2.2022 — January LSAT Score Release
2.3.2022 — March LSAT Registration Deadline
2.12.2022 — February LSAT
3.3.2022 — February LSAT Score Release
12:44 - Logical Reasoning Strategies
Listener Catia shares a post she found in an online LSAT forum. The writer details the phases of her Logical Reasoning journey—one that began with months of studying overcomplicated theory and culminated in her “throwing all of the strategy and tips out the window.” Nathan and Ben comment on each phase of this student’s study journey and encourage listeners to learn from her missteps. They agree with her conclusion that “the most important thing is to read what’s on the page in front of you and to understand what the text is saying.”
42:20 - Changing Careers Before Law School
Listener Hennessey is a public school teacher considering a career switch. She’d like a less demanding job that would allow her time to focus on LSAT prep, but she’s worried that quitting her current job may negatively impact her law school applications. Is switching career paths before law school a red flag to admissions officers? Tune in to hear Ben’s and Nathan’s thoughts!
1:02:30 - Veterans Benefits and Criminal Records
Listener John shares his thoughts on applying to law school as a veteran with a criminal record. He mentions that he’s in a rush to take the LSAT and apply for 2022 admission because his GI benefits are due to expire in 2025. Although the guys normally dissuade anyone from applying this late in the cycle, John’s unusual circumstances warrant an exception.
John also weighs in on applying to law school with a criminal record and notes that drug possession is reportedly viewed as less severe than crimes involving ethics or money. Ben and Nathan remind listeners to contact their state’s bar association with any questions about what types of criminal records may be disqualifying.