Is the LSAT Hard? Understanding the Challenge and How to Overcome It

What Makes the LSAT Challenging?

It’s a Test of Thinking, Not Memorization

Unlike exams that rely on flashcards and facts, the LSAT tests how you think. It rewards precision, not prior knowledge. This means that memorizing content won’t help you much here. You’ll need to read carefully, think critically, and apply logic under pressure.

For students used to excelling by studying hard facts or formulas, this shift in focus can feel disorienting at first.

The Wording Is Intentionally Precise—and Sometimes Subtle

The LSAT isn’t trying to trick you, but it does expect you to notice small shifts in language, logic, and structure. The questions are dense and require close reading. Missing one word or misinterpreting a conditional statement can lead to the wrong answer.

Timing Is Tight

Most students agree: time pressure is one of the most difficult parts of the LSAT. You’re not just solving problems—you’re solving them quickly. Each section gives you roughly 35 minutes to complete a large volume of questions. You won’t have time to second-guess or overthink.

The Scoring Curve Is Steep

The LSAT is scored on a scale from 120 to 180, but most test-takers fall around the 150 mark. To break into the top 10% (a 165+ score) for top schools, you’ll need not just accuracy, but consistency across every section.

Understanding the Current LSAT Format

In recent years, LSAC has made notable changes to the LSAT content to better reflect the skills needed for law school. Here's how the current test is structured:

• Logical Reasoning (2 sections): These sections assess your ability to analyze arguments, identify assumptions, and evaluate reasoning.
• Reading Comprehension (1 section): This section includes complex passages and asks you to interpret, compare, and critique dense text.
• Unscored Section (1 experimental): One section that could be Logical Reasoning or Reading Comprehension—but you won’t know which one. It’s unscored but looks identical to the others.
• Writing Sample (LSAT Writing): A separate online writing task where you choose between two options and defend your position logically. This is now completed separately from the multiple-choice test and includes a 15-minute prewriting analysis period.

Note: the LSAT no longer includes Analytical Reasoning (Logic Games). This section was removed after an accessibility-related lawsuit prompted changes to ensure fairness for all test-takers.

Check out some LSAT prep tips!

Section-by-Section LSAT Breakdown

Logical Reasoning (2 Scored Sections)

These are the backbone of the LSAT. You’ll read short arguments and answer questions about how they’re constructed. You might be asked to weaken, strengthen, or identify flaws in reasoning. Many students find this section demanding due to its variety and precision.

The key to success here is learning to spot common logical fallacies and understanding how arguments work.

Reading Comprehension

This section presents four long passages on topics like law, science, or the humanities. You’ll answer questions that test your understanding of structure, tone, purpose, and specific details. Some passages are paired and ask you to compare points of view.

Reading Comprehension rewards focus and stamina. It’s not just about reading—it’s about remembering and interpreting high-density information.

The Unscored Experimental Section

This mystery section is used by LSAC to test out future questions. You won’t know which section is unscored, so you have to treat them all seriously. It could be any type of section you’ve already encountered.

LSAT Writing Sample

The LSAT Writing task is a 50-minute, online assignment completed separately from the multiple-choice test. Here’s how it works:

• 15 minutes of analysis-only time: You can read and annotate the prompt but can’t begin writing yet.
• 35 minutes of writing time: After the planning period, you’ll write your argument.

You’ll be asked to choose between two options (like policy proposals or business plans) and defend your choice using logical reasoning. While it’s unscored, admissions committees can review it, and it should reflect your ability to write clearly and logically.

Is the LSAT Harder Than Other Tests?

That depends. If you’re used to the SAT, ACT, or GRE, you might find the LSAT more demanding in terms of abstract thinking and verbal reasoning. There’s no math. No vocab lists. No science section.

But the LSAT expects you to read critically and think structurally—quickly and under pressure. That’s what makes it feel difficult.

That said, the LSAT is a learnable test. You don’t have to be a genius. You just need to train like an athlete: consistently, strategically, and with feedback.

How to Prepare for the LSAT Effectively

1. Start Early

Give yourself at least 2–4 months of prep time. The earlier you start, the more room you have to improve.

2. Use Official LSAT Prep Materials

Practice with real, released LSAT exams from LSAC. They’re the most reliable source of questions that mirror the real test.

3. Create a Study Plan You Can Stick To

Consistency beats intensity. A steady schedule—like 1–2 hours a day—is better than cramming for 8 hours once a week. Build a routine that you can realistically follow.

4. Take Full-Length, Timed Practice Tests

Simulate the test environment. Take full practice exams with time limits and short breaks. This helps build mental endurance and identifies areas for improvement.

5. Review Every Question You Miss

Don’t just mark wrong answers—dig into why you got them wrong. Was it a misread? A logical error? The only way to improve is to diagnose your mistakes.

6. Focus on Weak Areas

Struggling with assumption questions in Logical Reasoning? Getting bogged down in Reading Comp passages? Customize your study to target your biggest gaps.

7. Consider a Course or Tutor If You’re Stuck

Self-study works for some, but not everyone. If you’re plateauing or need accountability, a structured course or personal tutor can help move you forward faster.

Final Thoughts: So, Is the LSAT Hard?

Yes, the LSAT is hard—but not because it’s full of obscure facts or tricky math. It’s hard because it expects clarity of thought, fast reasoning, and a sharp eye for logic.

The good news? Those are all skills you can learn.

Approach the LSAT with strategy, patience, and structure. Give yourself time to grow. Be honest about what’s working and what’s not. And remember: getting better at the LSAT isn’t just about law school—it’s about learning to think in a way that will help you succeed once you’re there.

You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to improve.

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Your friends at BeMo

BeMo Academic Consulting