According to Juris Education, students need an average of a 152 LSAT score or higher to get into the average law school, and that score ratchets up to over 160 for the top 50 schools. And yet, the median LSAT score is—wait for it—exactly 152. That means roughly half of all LSAT takers will have to retake the exam for a score that will land them a spot at any school, let alone one that’s high on their list.
Yet, knowing the format is one way to start getting ready to pass, especially with the changes in recent years.
In this quick guide, I’ll walk you through the “need-to-knows” of LSAT sections, covering section types, formats, and tips for studying to help you pass. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what’s on the road ahead of you so you can feel more confident in your prospects.
Key Takeaways
- The LSAT Has Four Multiple-Choice Sections: These include two Logical Reasoning sections, one Reading Comprehension section, and one unscored experimental section.
- One Section Is Always Unscored: The unscored section—used to test new questions—can be either Logical Reasoning or Reading Comprehension, but you won’t know which.
- Writing Sample Is Separate: LSAT Argumentative Writing is required but unscored; it’s completed separately on your own computer and sent to law schools.
- Logic Games Are Gone: As of 2024, the Analytical Reasoning section (a.k.a. logic games) was removed, simplifying the LSAT test structure.
- Logical Reasoning Still Dominates: With two scored LR sections, strong argument analysis skills are more important than ever for prospective law students.
How Many Sections Are on the LSAT?
The LSAT, also known as the Law School Admission Test, is a standardized test composed of five sections: four multiple-choice sections and one writing sample. Only three of the four multiple-choice sections are scored; the fourth is an unscored experimental section used to test new questions. These sections are presented in a random order, and the test does not indicate which one is unscored.
The LSAT consists of the following sections:
- Two Logical Reasoning Sections (scored)
- One Reading Comprehension Section (scored)
- One Experimental Section (unscored; either LR or RC)
- One Writing Sample (unscored, completed separately)
Logical Reasoning: The Core of the LSAT
With two scored sections (and maybe even three), logical reasoning makes up the bulk of your LSAT score. These sections test your ability to analyze arguments, spot assumptions, draw conclusions, and evaluate logical flaws. Each section includes a series of short arguments followed by multiple-choice questions that ask you to strengthen, weaken, or dissect the logic in various ways.
These questions are skills-based, and the LSAT is designed to reward critical thinking, not memorization. Developing strong logical reasoning skills is essential to doing well on this part of the exam.
Reading Comprehension: Dig Deep Into Dense Texts
The Reading Comprehension section presents long, complex passages followed by multiple questions about each one. Topics often include law, science, history, and philosophy. The goal is to assess your ability to understand structure, main points, author tone, and supporting details—skills you’ll need to succeed in law school.
Simply put, this section tests endurance as much as comprehension. Practicing with LSAT preparation books and prep courses can help build your reading stamina.
The Experimental Section: A Practice Round (for LSAC, Not You)
Every LSAT includes one experimental section, which can be either logical reasoning or reading comprehension. It looks identical to the scored sections, but doesn’t count toward your LSAT score. The Law School Admission Council uses this section to evaluate new questions before including them in future exams.
Here’s the kicker: you won’t know which section is experimental, so take every section seriously.
LSAT Argumentative Writing: Still Required, Still Unscored
LSAT writing is an unscored, 35-minute essay completed on your own computer, separate from the multiple-choice portion. You’ll be given a prompt asking you to choose between two options and defend your choice. There is no truly “correct” answer here—just an opportunity to show your ability to argue clearly and persuasively.
While it doesn’t impact your score, many admissions officers read the writing sample, especially when deciding between applicants with similar undergraduate GPAs and test scores.
What Happened to Logic Games?
The analytical reasoning section (commonly known as logic games) was removed from the LSAT in 2024. The decision followed a legal settlement with blind test takers, who argued that the format was inaccessible. While many prospective law students mourn its loss, its removal means the test is now more focused on verbal reasoning.
How to Prepare for the Current Test Format
To succeed on the LSAT, it’s essential to build both familiarity with the test structure and mastery of the key skills assessed. Here are a few LSAT preparation tips:
- Take an Initial Diagnostic Test: This will help identify your baseline and highlight areas of weakness.
- Create a Targeted Study Schedule: Focus your study sessions around the test format—especially Logical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension.
- Use Practice Tests: Timed, full-length practice exams help develop pacing and endurance. Analyze your practice test results to track progress and spot recurring challenges.
- Strengthen Logical Reasoning Skills: Since two-thirds of the scored sections are Logical Reasoning, this should be the backbone of your prep.
- Practice LSAT Writing: While not scored, your writing sample still matters. Work on expressing clear, concise arguments within time limits.
Final Thoughts
The current LSAT is all about reading and reasoning. To prep effectively, rely on realistic practice tests, high-quality prep courses, and the occasional writing sample drill.
Most law schools place a heavy weight on your LSAT score, so build your study sessions around the test’s actual structure. Knowing what to expect can make all the difference between an average result and your highest LSAT score yet.
FAQs
The LSAT consists of two scored Logical Reasoning sections, one scored Reading Comprehension section, and one unscored experimental section. There’s also a separate unscored writing sample.
Yes, the LSAT is a challenging standardized test designed to assess analytical thinking, logical reasoning, and reading comprehension—skills essential for law school success.
None. The LSAT does not test math skills. Instead, it focuses entirely on logic, reading, and argument analysis, making it different from most other standardized tests.
A score of 160+ is generally considered strong, with 170+ placing you in the top 2% of test takers. The highest LSAT score possible is 180.
Most students find Reading Comprehension to be the toughest due to its dense, time-pressured passages and nuanced multiple-choice questions.
