A Review Of LSAT Question Types

The Law School Aptitude Test or LSAT has different sections, each testing specific skills and abilities of the applicant. The two sections in the test are on Logical Reasoning. The LSAT question type in this section is in multiple-choice format and it requires applicants to analyze arguments. An LSAT question in the Logical Reasoning section of the test may ask the test-taker which choice reinforces the argument presented or weakens it. The test-taker may also be asked to choose the conclusion of the argument from the choices given.

There are approximately 50 Logic Reasoning questions. This type of LSAT question tests the applicant's skill in identifying the key points within an argument, using logic to figure out abstract ideas, searching for pertinent information and evaluating arguments.

Another section in the LSAT focuses on Analytical Reasoning. In this section, the LSAT question takes the form of a logic game. The test taker will be asked to illustrate answers and create conclusions using pre-established rules. This section tests how well the applicant comprehends the impact of rules on the outcome of a certain scenario and how he or she can come up with conclusions within the set guidelines. The section also tests the skill of the applicant in identifying the link between different ideas, analyzing situations and using logic to work on confusing situations.

The LSAT also contains a section on Reading Comprehension, which has four sub-sections. Three of these sub-sections consist of passages that are about 400 to 500 words in length and one section consist of two passages that are slightly shorter. A series of questions follow every passage. This section evaluates the ability of a test-taker to understand determine the key points and other useful information in a passage and draw conclusions from it. It also tests how well a student can comprehend academic, heavy or even boring text.

Beginning with the June 2007 LSAT exam, there will be a change in this particular section of the LSAT. One of the four reading comprehension subsections will be a comparative reading section wherein the test-taker will read two short passages. The LSAT question type in this particular section will relate to both of the passages.

You will not receive any score for one section in the LSAT, which is the essay section but it is still important to give it your best because law schools will receive a copy of your essay along with your LSAT score. Sometimes, the admission staff uses the essay to break a tie between two applicants.

Lastly, the LSAT has an Experimental Section the purpose of which is to evaluate would-be questions for upcoming LSATs. This section may be in the form of any of the above mentioned sections. Test-takers are not aware which section is experimental so it is important to work on all parts of the test equally.