What to Do the Day Before the LSAT: Ten Tips to Maximize your LSAT score!

What to Do the Day Before the LSAT: Ten Tips to Maximize your LSAT score!

We know that it is not quite the day before the LSAT when we are writing this post, but we figured we’d write it a little early in case you are wondering how you should plan to spend your time the day before the LSAT.

In this post, we give you ten tips to maximize your LSAT score. It comes down to: not stressing out, and getting prepared–both physically and mentally–for the test day. Spending your time wisely the day before the LSAT can give you an extra boost in your LSAT score.

What to Do the Day Before the LSAT

1. Don’t take a full practice exam!

The first tip is more about what not to do the day before the LSAT–rather than what to do! But it is just as important as our other tips.

We know that you have already been preparing for the LSAT for several weeks now. Trust that you have learned the skills you need to know to pass the exam. You will probably not have any brand new insights during a practice exam and you are very likely to, instead, stress yourself out.  So instead of trying to fit in one more exam, save your energy for the actual test tomorrow!

2. If you must do something, review strategies.

If you are the type that absolutely has to do some LSAT-related studying the day before the test or you will drive yourself crazy, that is okay! Our one suggestion is that you don’t complete any “new” questions. However, you can talk yourself through how you will approach specific types of questions. For example, you can review strategies for strengthening/weakening questions or approaches to specific types of logic games.  If you must go over some questions, go over ones you have already looked at.

3. Get packed up for the LSAT!

Make sure that you have prepared everything you need to take with you for the exam. Take a few minutes to read the LSAC’s rules regarding what you may and may not bring to the testing center.

Be sure to bring the following items with you on test day:

• LSAT Admission Ticket:The printout of your admission ticket must display the photo that you uploaded through your LSAC online account. Be sure that the photo on your ticket meets the LSAT Admission Ticket Photo Requirements.
• Valid, Government-Issued Photo Identification: The ID must be current (or have expired within 90 days of your test date) and must contain a recent and recognizable photo of you. The first and last name listed on your ID must match exactly the first and last name printed on your LSAT Admission Ticket. For additional information on acceptable governments IDs refer to the LSAC’s webpage concerning Identification Accepted for LSAT Admission.
• Pencils: Bring three or four sharpened No. 2 or HB wooden pencils with erasers as well as a sharpener. Please be aware that you are not allowed to bring mechanical pencils to the exam. Additionally, pencils and sharpeners will not be available at the testing center.

4. Eat healthy!

Fuel your mind and body appropriately! Eat nutritious meals rich in protein, healthy carbohydrates, and vegetables. It is best to avoid alcohol, as well as raw fish or rare meat. The last thing you want is to be sick on the day of the LSAT!

5. Get a full night of sleep!  

Do your best to get a full night of sleep before the exam. It is best to turn off electronic devices, including laptops, E-readers, and mobile phones, at least an hour before you intend to sleep. You can even consider waking up early the day before the LSAT so that it is easier for you to get to sleep on time the night before the LSAT.

6. Drive to the testing center if you have not already.

By driving to the testing center in advance, you will be more comfortable with your route and be aware of any construction. Keep in mind that traffic conditions may be different the morning of your exam. See where the entrance to the test center is located and where you can park your car. Also, print out the directions to the testing center in case your GPS malfunctions. The last thing you need is unnecessary stress on the morning of the LSAT.

7. Put Gas in your Car!

If you are driving to the testing center put gas in your car the day before the test. You do not want to have worry about going to the gas station the morning of the exam. Similarly, if you have to pay tolls to get to the testing center or pay for parking once you are there, make sure that you have the necessary change in your car.

8. Recognize that the hard part is behind you.

If you go into the testing center stressed out, you will put yourself in a bad position! Instead, relax.  Recognize that as of right now, it is out of your control (this is both wonderful and terrible!). Take some time to enjoy an activity that helps eliminate stress (e.g., walking, going to yoga, going to the gym, getting a massage, watching a movie).

9. Plan something fun to do after the test.

Give yourself a few hours to unwind after the exam. Then plan a nice dinner or a relaxing activity. Your family and friends have probably missed seeing you the weeks leading up to the LSAT! Having well-deserved post-LSAT plans will help you stay motivated to do your best on the test. It will also help you keep things in perspective—i.e. the test is not the only thing in the world that matters!

10. Visualize the LSAT going well.  

If you have a hard time convincing yourself to relax, instead, tell yourself that you are “excited” to get it done. This tip alone can make a difference. Please read this blog post on turning anxiety into excitement. For some students, this works much better than trying to “calm down” before the test.

• Pursuing Law School? We’ve Got You Covered!

  🌟 Special Offer: Enroll in our FREE on-demand law school prep course, meticulously crafted by a top-ranked law student. Secure your spot now