What should you know the day before taking the LSAT?

The Day Before the Test

• Make sure you have received your LSAT admission ticket from Law Services. Double-check the information on the admission ticket for accuracy.
• Since backpacks are not allowed in the testing center, put together a plastic Zip-Lock bag with everything you plan to bring (see the list below).
• On the day before the LSAT we recommend that you study very little, if at all. Typically the best approach for most students is to simply relax as much as possible. Read a book, go see a movie, or play a round of golf. If you feel you must study, we recommend that you only briefly review each of the concepts covered in the course.
• If you are not familiar with your test center, drive by the test center and examine the testing room and parking situation. This will alleviate any anxiety or confusion on the day of the test.
• If your testing room contains only seats with flip-up desktops (usually found in large auditoriums) you have the option of bringing a flat board to the test center. The board can be placed on top of the flip-up desktop in order to provide you with more space. We know you might feel a bit ridiculous carrying a board into the LSAT, but the advantage you get from the extra room will more than compensate. The board should be approximately 18 inches by 24 inches. Please note that Law Services policy allows you to bring the board; however, the test supervisors may not allow you to use the board if they feel it will cause a disturbance to another test taker. We think it’s better to bring the board and not be able to use it than it is to need the board and not have it.
• Eat only bland or neutral foods (such as lightly sauced pasta) the night before the test and try to get the best sleep possible (at least 8 hours is ideal). Do not drink alcohol.
• Try not to worry about the next day’s test! You’ve learned the techniques, and you’re ready to attack the LSAT!

The Morning of the Test

• Follow your normal routine when you wake up. For example, if you do not regularly drink coffee, do not start on the morning of the LSAT. Constancy in your routine will allow you to focus on your primary objective: performing well on the test.
• Do a few Logical Reasoning questions if time allows. This will essentially provide an opportunity for you to “warm up” before beginning the exam. Three or four questions should be enough to get you mentally prepared for the test taking experience.
• Eat breakfast (see our discussion of Brain Food for more information on what to eat).
• Dress in layers, so you will be warm if the test center is cold, but also be able to shed clothes if the test center is hot. Note: effective June 2007 no hats or hoods are allowed (except items of religious apparel).
• Leave early for the testing center—even if you arrive an hour ahead of time, you can sit in your car and read or relax. It’s better than getting caught in traffic and having to rush to arrive on time!
• We strongly believe that performing well on the LSAT requires you to believe that you can perform well. As you prepare to leave for the test center, run through the test in your head, visualizing an exceptional performance. Imagine how you will react to each logic game, reading passage, and logical reasoning question. Many athletes use this same technique to achieve optimal performance in sporting events.