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#Politics #Law #Law School #Nathan Fox and Ben Olson #Ben Olson #Nathan Fox #News #Podcasting Education

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“If we march into that village and we start trying to persecute people for using poison, something that's very illegal, nobody's going to talk to us. We're not going to find out where the poison came from. We're not going to be able to shut anything down. We should take the approach that people are using poison because they're desperate, because they see no other alternative.” – Andrew Stein Andrew Stein is a wildlife ecologist who spent the past 25 years studying human carnivore conflict from African wild dogs and lions in Kenya and Botswana to leopards and hyenas in Namibia. His work has long focused on finding ways for people and predators to coexist. He is the founder of CLAWS , an organization based in Botswana that's working at the intersection of cutting-edge wildlife research and community driven conservation. Since its start in 2014 and official launch as an NGO in 2020, CLAWS has been pioneering science-based, tech-forward strategies to reduce conflict between people and carnivores. By collaborating closely with local communities, especially traditional cattle herders, CLAWS supports both species conservation and rural livelihoods—making coexistence not just possible, but sustainable.…

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Ben Olson and Nathan Fox started the Thinking LSAT Podcast to become better LSAT teachers and have some fun. Please 1) subscribe, 2) rate and review, and 3) send us questions: help@thinkinglsat.com. Don't pay for law school! Learn more at lsatdemon.com

675 episodes

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675 episodes

#Politics #Law #Law School #Nathan Fox and Ben Olson #Ben Olson #Nathan Fox #News #Podcasting Education

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Thinking LSAT

1
Slow Is Smooth, Smooth Is 170 (Ep. 503) 1:18:31

2 days ago1:18:31

1:18:31

The secret to scoring a 170 on the LSAT? Don’t finish the section—just slow down and focus on accuracy. Ben and Nathan share an excerpt from their new book, The LSAT Is Easy , that breaks down what it takes to reach score milestones. They also unpack common admissions gimmicks, share tips from a departing demon, and host another round of the Personal Statement Gong Show. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 503 on YouTube 0:37 - The LSAT Is Easy Ben and Nathan explain why the LSAT isn’t as difficult as it seems. Rushing through questions leads to repeated mistakes, not progress. They encourage slowing down, focusing on accuracy, and carefully solving each question. The episode also introduces their new, budget-friendly book. Improving your score starts with doing questions right, not doing more of them. 19:33 – Marketing gimmicks Law schools use tactics like seat deposit deadlines and “priority waitlists” to pressure applicants into accepting full-price offers. Ben and Nathan explain how these strategies work, why they don’t reflect actual capacity, and how they help schools find eager, full-paying students. Their advice? Ignore the pressure. Focus on scholarships and long-term results. 40:50 – Why didn’t Ben enjoy his job in the justice department? Ben recalls his time at the DOJ, where much of his work involved revising boilerplate from other lawyers. They also discuss clerkships—what they entail, how they differ, and why federal ones are more significant. For more on clerkships, check out Thinking LSAT Episode 418, Demystifying Federal Clerkships . 43:53 – You Don’t Need to Explain Every Wrong Answer. Some students waste time trying to explain every wrong answer. Ben and Nathan suggest it’s more useful to understand the logic behind the correct ones and focus your review on the questions you missed. The point isn’t to memorize everything—it’s to build real understanding. 48:23 – Personal Statement Gong Show Angel shares a personal statement for critique. Ben and Nathan emphasize that it needs to focus squarely on the applicant. Highlighting anything other than your skills wastes space that should be used to show why you will succeed in law school and the legal profession. 1:09:16 - Tips from a Departing Demon Blake shares two pieces of advice: every word on the LSAT counts, and practice doesn’t make perfect—just better. Ben and Nathan agree with another student who reminds listeners not to take the test until they’re truly ready. 1:14:16 - Word of the Week - Concomitant "Neurosurgery seemed to present the most challenging and direct confrontation with meaning, identity, and death. Concomitant with the enormous responsibilities they shouldered, neurosurgeons were also masters of many fields: Neurosurgery, ICU Medicine, neurology, radiology."…

Thinking LSAT

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Goodbye T-14. Hello T-17. (Ep. 502) 1:13:08

9 days ago1:13:08

1:13:08

Ben and Nathan break down the newly released U.S. News law school rankings, including an initial error that caused some confusion. They explain why slight shifts in rankings—like Cornell dropping out of the Top 14 or the new Top 17—shouldn’t heavily influence your law school choice. Instead, they stress applying broadly and focusing on schools with the best scholarship offers and employment outcomes. A listener asks if retaking the LSAT is worth it after being rejected or waitlisted by all her top schools. In Pearls vs. Turds, they assess a tip about highlighting adverbs in reading comprehension, noting that understanding their role matters more than marking them up. Then, they offer guidance on handling unanswered questions after timed sections. And what’s the deal with Pace Law School? Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 502 on Youtube 0:30 – The New U.S. News Rankings (and a Bit of Confusion) Ben and Nathan unpack the latest U.S. News Law School Rankings , which briefly included an incorrect list due to an initial error. A four-way tie at 14th place has turned the usual Top 14 into a Top 17. Their main point: minor ranking shifts shouldn't drive your decision. Focus instead on applying broadly and choosing the school that offers the best mix of scholarship money and job prospects. 15:29 – Is It Time to Retake the LSAT? A listener waitlisted or rejected by all her top-choice schools asks for advice. Ben and Nathan agree she should retake the LSAT and reapply. They warn against accepting the steep “waitlist prices” schools often offer. Their advice: apply to at least 10 schools to maximize offers, but don’t count long-shot “reach” schools in that total. 26:36 – Pearls vs. Turds: Should You Highlight Adverbs? This week’s tip suggests highlighting all adverbs in reading comprehension. While adverbs can shape a passage’s meaning, the Demon still advises against highlighting. It can become a crutch that replaces real understanding. What matters is grasping their impact, not marking them. Verdict: a pearl—with some polishing. 32:30 – What To Do With Unanswered Questions A student using the Demon method—focusing on one question at a time and ignoring the clock—asks what to do with leftover questions once time runs out. Ben and Nathan suggest reviewing the questions he attempted and missed first, then finishing the remaining ones untimed, treating them like regular drilling. 35:34 – What’s the Deal with Pace Law School This week’s What’s the Deal With is prompted by former FBI Director Kush Patel leaving Pace Law School off his official bio. Ben and Nathan highlight common concerns with schools like Pace, including conditional scholarships and limited employment outcomes. They also caution against being swayed by marketing claims like “number one ranked environmental law program” and encourage students to focus on scholarship offers and job prospects. 1:02:51 - Word of the Week - Struthious If the reckless disregard standard... served merely as a substitute for willful misconduct—to prevent the defendant from "deliberately blinding himself to the consequences of his tortuous action"—section (b)(3) would be redundant since section (b)(2) already covers such struthious conduct.…

Thinking LSAT

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When Students Reject Law Schools (Ep. 501) 1:08:18

16 days ago1:08:18

1:08:18

Ben and Nathan focus on shifting the power dynamic in law school admissions. From controlling scholarship negotiations to spotting misleading admissions practices, they offer practical advice for staying in control and making informed decisions. Sometimes, that means rejecting law schools that aren’t making the cut when it comes to scholarship offers. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 501 on Youtube 0:35 – How Often Do Students Reject Schools - If you’re not turning down offers, you didn’t apply to enough schools. Applying broadly puts applicants in the driver’s seat and creates leverage for better offers. Nathan and Ben explain how schools are under pressure to fill their class and how savvy students can use that to negotiate their scholarship offers. They also caution against binding early decision programs, 3+3 tracks, and anything else that limits a student's ability to apply broadly. 14:23 – Is the Scholarship Estimator Broken - Two students express concern over their scholarship prospects. The updated 2024 ABA reports in the estimator appear less optimistic than earlier estimates. Nathan and Ben explain how changes to reporting standards might allow law schools to deflate reported scholarship numbers and obscure actual financial outcomes. They emphasize the importance of focusing on getting the best score possible on the LSAT, applying broadly, and not panicking. 33:22 – Eliminating Wrong Answers as a Strategy - There are two ways to get a question right: identifying the correct answer or eliminating the wrong ones. While the latter can work, it’s not the most efficient method. Ben and Nathan caution students against eliminating an answer choice because they don’t understand it. The preferred strategy is understanding why the right answer is correct, which often saves time and improves accuracy. 36:53 – Personal Statement Gong Show - Nathan and Ben continue their “gong show” series, reading listener-submitted personal statements. The guys read until they find something that derails the statement and then immediately stop. The current record stands at five lines. This week, James submits his essay in an attempt to beat the record. 44:27 – What’s the Deal with Southwestern Law School - Southwestern still uses conditional scholarships that Nathan and Ben classify as “scammerships.” Nearly 50% of students had their scholarships eliminated while in school. While the top students may thrive, the majority face poor employment outcomes and low bar passage rates. They advise listeners not to attend Southwestern at full or even half price. Anyone facing a scholarship cut should be prepared to drop out. They also discuss Southwestern’s part-time, online, and accelerated JD programs. These options might be more convenient, but they usually cost just as much as the regular three-year JD. 1:03:09 – Word of the Week - Many economists argue that tariffs create market distortions that can harm domestic consumers over time.…

Thinking LSAT

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11 LSAT Myths (Ep. 500) 1:32:24

23 days ago1:32:24

1:32:24

On Episode 500 of Thinking LSAT, Ben and Nathan tackle the most pervasive myths surrounding the LSAT, law school, and the legal profession. The core of the Demon philosophy shows up again and again in their myth-busting: read for comprehension, solve each problem, and don’t pay for law school. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 500 on Youtube 3:46 - Myth 1: Most Students Pay Full Price to Attend Law School Only about 1 in 5 actually pay full price. Law schools use clever marketing tactics to make full-price tuition seem more common than it is. Ben and Nathan emphasize that this is the number one myth that the Demon dispels. 12:31 - Myth 2: You Should Only Take the LSAT Once The advice not to retake the LSAT is outdated. U.S. News no longer factors in multiple LSAT scores, and law schools only care about the highest score. You should plan on using all five of your attempts. 26:09 - Myth 3: Learn the Basics Before Attempting Questions The Demon doesn’t force theory first because it’s dull and counterproductive. By diving into questions first, you build the skills that actually matter—understanding and solving. With the Demon, you get written explanations for every question, thousands of video explanations, and a vast lesson library. 35:23 - Myth 4: You Need a Strategy to Manage Timing Many LSAT companies’ advice focuses on unnecessary timing strategies. The guys remind listeners to ignore the clock and instead take one question at a time and solve it. Trying to “manage time” while understanding the test is a losing game. The LSAT rewards careful, critical thinking, not gimmicks. 50:27 - Myth 5: Read the Question Before the Passage Ben and Nate explain that the fundamental skill on the LSAT is understanding what you’re reading. Any distraction from that only makes things more complicated. By focusing on comprehension first, tough questions become more straightforward. The goal is to turn level fives into level ones by fully understanding the passage before worrying about the question. 57:58 - Myth 6: You Need to Learn Formal Logic You don’t need to learn formal logic to succeed on the LSAT. Everyday language and basic common sense are enough. The LSAT tests argument understanding, not rule memorization. 1:00:34 - Myth 7: Law is a Lucrative Career Many students assume that a career in law guarantees big paychecks, but the reality is more complicated. Ben and Nathan share an ABA report highlighting an average salary of approximately $170,000, but many lawyers make closer to $70,000. The salary distribution is bimodal, meaning a few big salaries drag up the average. In fact, lawyers report some of the lowest satisfaction levels with the value of their graduate degrees. 1:12:06 - Myth 8: You Should Highlight Reading Comprehension and Diagram Logical Reasoning Highlighting and diagramming might seem helpful, but they often become a substitute for actual understanding. Worse, errors in diagramming can throw off comprehension entirely. Focus on understanding the passage, not marking it up. 1:15:30 - Myth 9: You Should “Blind Review” After a Practice Test Blind reviewing every question isn’t the most effective method. Instead, identify the ones you missed and retry those. But just because you got it right the second time doesn’t mean you’re done—dig deeper to understand why you missed it in the first place 1:18:11 - Myth 10: Drill a Specific Question Type Recognizing question types is a crucial skill on the LSAT, one that is hindered by focusing on only one question type. Instead, rely on the Demon’s choice when drilling. Demon’s choice emphasizes the best approach: reading carefully, thinking critically, and solving the problem at hand. 1:21:44 - Myth 11: You Should Study as Many Hours as You Have Available More hours don’t mean better results. Studying 8 hours a day isn’t the answer—high-quality studying is. One focused hour can be far more effective than grinding away all day with diminishing returns.…

Thinking LSAT

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Personal Statement Pitfalls (Ep. 499) 1:55:00

4 weeks ago1:55:00

1:55:00

Ben and Nathan kick off the return of Thinking LSAT’s personal statement review segment with a listener's personal statement that had potential. But the statement quickly strays into the weeds, and Ben and Nathan “ring the gong.” Then Ben and Nathan emphasize the importance of securing a full scholarship to minimize risk during a potential economic recession. They also reassure a listener that reapplying with a higher LSAT score won’t hurt her chances. Later, they offer advice on effective LSAT review strategies and discuss the value of LSAT skills beyond the test. Ben and Nathan caution against Seton Hall’s 3+3 program, and others like it. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 499 on Youtube 0:27 - The Risk of Law School Debt - Bobby shares a blog post highlighting the risks of taking on law school debt. Ben and Nathan discuss how law schools have evolved from para-professional training programs into elite “finishing schools” detached from the realities of legal practice. This shift has contributed to skyrocketing student debt. As economists warn of a potential recession, history suggests that the legal job market may suffer just as it did during the 2008 financial crisis. The guys reference a piece by Karen Sloan that paints a grim picture of recent law school graduate employment, potentially signaling tougher times ahead. Their advice? Avoid the risk—attend law school only if you secure a full-tuition scholarship. 28:52 - Reapplying Next Cycle - Alice originally applied to law schools with an LSAT score below the medians of her top choices. Following Demon’s advice, she retook the LSAT to improve her score before reapplying. Now, she worries that reapplying to schools that previously accepted her might hurt her chances of securing a scholarship. Nathan and Ben reassure her that law schools will treat her new application independently and that reapplying won’t be held against her. They commend her decision to wait a year to maximize her scholarship opportunities. 33:31 - How Do I Review? - Alanna feels like she’s spinning her wheels and isn’t sure how to review effectively. The guys remind her that most mistakes stem from simple misreading. True learning happens when concepts “click” because you’ve uncovered the logic you previously overlooked. They encourage her to focus on understanding the reasoning behind the correct answers rather than just memorizing explanations. 45:31 - Use Scholarships to Motivate Your Study - A student making solid progress on the LSAT expresses a loss in motivation. Ben and Nathan remind her that LSAT prep builds essential skills for a legal career—if she isn’t enjoying the process, she should seriously consider whether law is the right path. They also warn that while a 155 might be enough for admission, it’s unlikely to secure a scholarship. They suggest using the goal of a full-ride scholarship as motivation to keep improving her score. 51:04 - LSAT Skills Are Transferable - Departing Demon, James reflects on the invaluable skills he gained from studying for the LSAT. 52:43 - Personal Statement Segment - Ben and Nathan review Jeremiah’s personal statement. While his topic is compelling, they note that the statement quickly shifts away from the “personal” aspect, getting lost in the story's context. 1:04:43 - What’s the Deal With Seton Hall? - A student asks about Seton Hall’s 3+3 program, but Ben and Nathan caution against it, arguing that such programs lock students into paying full tuition before they can explore other law school options. They also criticize Seton Hall’s continued use of predatory conditional scholarships. However, they acknowledge that Seton Hall’s part-time program is a smart choice for students who want to work while attending law school. 1:52:34 - Word of the Week - “In that construct, the strong performance of the few can obfuscate the mediocrity of the many.”…

Thinking LSAT

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Don't Fund Your Rivals (Ep. 498) 1:43:38

5 weeks ago1:43:38

1:43:38

Law school tuition is designed to exploit the students willing to pay full price, even though very few actually do. This week, Ben and Nathan explain why the more you pay for law school, the more you subsidize your classmates' scholarships. Later on, Ben and Nathan warn students not to confuse understanding with memorization. They caution listeners against taking on significant debt with the hope of loan forgiveness later. And they help a student pick a topic for his personal statement. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 498 on Youtube 0:30 - Stuck on Questions - Devin struggles with complex questions no matter how long he spends on the passages. Ben and Nathan hypothesize that Devin may be falling into the trap of memorizing, but not understanding, the passage. 10:24 - Last Few Points - How do you go from a 170 to a 175? One student describes the daunting feeling accompanying the jump in those last few points. The guys advise him to slow down and attempt fewer questions in exchange for better accuracy. The only road to a 175+ is understanding every question you attempt. 15:25 - Do STEM Majors Get a Break? - One student is feeling pressure from her challenging science courses, which negatively affects her GPA. Nathan and Ben confirm that STEM majors receive some grace because of their difficult courseload, but that grace only comes with a high LSAT score. The first question a STEM major has to answer, though, is why she wants to be a lawyer. 28:13 - Don’t Depend on Student Loan Forgiveness - Nathan and Ben discuss recent changes to the public loan forgiveness program and income-driven repayment plans. They remind students that taking on significant debt with the expectation of future forgiveness is a gamble that can lead to disaster. Instead, they advise getting a score on the LSAT that will allow students to go to law school for free. 50:32 - Personal Statement Subject - Thinking LSAT is reviving its personal statement review segment. Nathan and Ben guide Demon student Tim through selecting a compelling topic. They advise him to use his statement to demonstrate his genuine interest in law by highlighting his experience working in the legal field. They emphasize the importance of showcasing exposure to law rather than relying on sensationalized or overly personal narratives. 57:55 - What’s the Deal With Arizona State University? - Brianna asks about Arizona State University’s new online program, and Ben and Nathan share their generally positive take on online law programs. But if you are considering attending ASU while paying full price, whether you’re studying online or not, you’re subsidizing your classmates' legal education. The guys also advise students to stay as far away as possible from ASU’s achievement program (and almost every early binding decision program). 1:32:39 - Word of the Week - Which one of the following statements is consistent with the biologist’s claim but not with the politician’s claim?…

Thinking LSAT

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Kill the Clock (Ep. 497) 1:39:06

6 weeks ago1:39:06

1:39:06

The clock shouldn’t affect you on the LSAT—but you still need to practice ignoring it. This week, Ben and Nathan advise a student to use timed sections to learn how to take the test like the clock doesn’t exist. Then, the guys explain how to approach the LSAT in an intuitive way. Later, Ben and Nathan encourage a student to try to get high school dual enrollment courses removed from their transcript, and they investigate Baylor University School of Law. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 497 on Youtube 0:30 - It Sure Feels Like Timing Is the Issue - A student scored a 170 on an untimed diagnostic test. The guys encourage him to complete timed sections in practice to learn to ignore the clock while keeping the accuracy high. 11:30 - You Play Like You Practice - Ben and Nathan encourage students to play like you practice. Read for understanding and learn to do the LSAT intuitively. Diagramming is only going to get in your way. 20:25 - Feeling vs. Performance - One listener expresses disappointment in her February score after feeling confident at the end of the test. Nathan and Ben suggest that a score in her practice test range shouldn’t be surprising. 30:40 - Dealing with High School Dual Enrollment Courses - Gabe has a few grades from high school dual enrollment courses dragging down his GPA. The guys encourage him to make his best effort to get those credits removed from his transcript. If he’s unsuccessful, a one-sentence addendum highlighting his college grades could be beneficial. 40:10 - The Cost of the LSAT and Law School Applications - Nathan and Ben shed light on the cost of the LSAT and law school applications. 57:55 - What’s the Deal with Baylor University School of Law? - Benjamin wants to know if Baylor University School of Law is worth the cost. 1:32:39 - Word of the Week - Were it possible to identify and zap all of that fraud in real time—an extremely tall order—it would still not get Mr. Musk close to his ultra- abstemious targets.…

Thinking LSAT

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Who Wants to Be a Lawyer? (Ep. 496) 54:19

7 weeks ago54:19

54:19

If you don’t have a burning passion to do the work of a lawyer, don’t go to law school. This week, Ben and Nathan caution a listener who is considering giving up a successful career to attend law school. Later, the guys emphasize the importance of accuracy when studying for the LSAT. And they encourage students not to write an addendum about an LSAT score increase. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 496 on Youtube 0:48 - Will My GPA Overshadow My Career Accomplishments? - A non-traditional student considering a career change is concerned that his GPA will hold him back. Ben and Nathan caution him to carefully consider whether law school is the right move. 7:00 - Practice Test Scores Drop - Ben and Nathan assure a listener that their “drop” in practice test scores isn’t a concern as long as their accuracy continues to climb. 9:14 - Letters of Recommendation - A student was asked by their professor to compose a few paragraphs to serve as the basis for a letter of recommendation. The guys encourage them to use Chat GPT to generate ideas. 13:51 - Score Increase Addendum - A dean at the University of Michigan law school encouraged (21:42) students to write addendums to explain LSAT score increases. Ben and Nathan discuss the harm that can come with writing unnecessary addendums, and what you should write if you must. 20:54 - What’s the Deal with William and Mary Law School? - William and Mary made news issuing erroneous acceptance letters, including to some students who had previously been denied admission. The guys then take a deep dive into the school’s real cost, fees, and outcomes. 46:42 - Word of the Week - While some species of apes have learned elements of human communication, philosophical thought is unique to humans.…

Thinking LSAT

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Don't Throw Away Your (Five) Shots (Ep. 495) 58:25

8 weeks ago58:25

58:25

Don’t Throw Away Your (Five) Shots (Ep. 494) You have five attempts at the official test. Should you use all of them? This week, Ben and Nathan encourage students to plan on taking the test five times, but not to waste their official attempts by signing up before they’re ready. Later, they discuss a student’s question about requesting a sixth LSAT attempt, and they caution applicants not to make excuses when writing appeals. The guys also advise a listener about character and fitness requirements. And they review how students should and should not use AI on their law school applications. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 495 on Youtube 0:35 - April LSAT Sign Ups - Registrations for the April LSAT close on February 27. 3:50 - Am I Ready for April? - Ben and Nathan advise a listener to prioritize accuracy when evaluating readiness for the April exam. But they also encourage students to take the pressure off any one test by planning to use all of their five official attempts. 16:29 - Reading like Ben and Nathan - A departing Demon says that they felt as if Ben and Nathan were in their head, helping them spot bad arguments when taking the official LSAT. The guys explain why attacking each argument leads to success on the LSAT and beyond. 19:45 - Sixth Attempt Appeal - Ben and Nathan encourage a listener to shoot for a sixth attempt, but discourage them from making excuses for poor performance. And they expand that advice to all application materials. 28:47 - Character and Fitness - Ben and Nathan provide direction for character and fitness questions. They advise a student to reach out to law schools they’re considering and the state bar to determine if they would be permitted to practice law before going any further in their application process. 37:17 - AI and Law School Applications - The guys circle back to a discussion from Thinking LSAT Episode 452 about the use of AI and law school applications. They read and evaluate several AI policies from law schools. 51:50 - Word of the Week - I am crestfallen that this incident undermined the degree of professionalism we seek to uphold.…

Thinking LSAT

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Is LR the New LG? (Ep. 494) 50:03

9 weeks ago50:03

50:03

Nathan and Ben weigh in on the reports from some test-takers that the February LSAT featured more LG-style questions in Logical Reasoning. The guys also advise listeners on how to bounce back from a disappointing LSAT score. They caution applicants not to overshare in their law school applications. And they consider the importance of the LSAT Writing sample. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 494 on YouTube 0:52 - New LSAT Dates - LSAC just announced test dates for the 2025–2026 LSAT cycle. 2:37 - January LSAT Scores - As January test-takers navigate the highs and lows of score release, Ben and Nathan encourage anyone who was disappointed with their score to keep studying and to treat their next official test like any other practice test. 13:33 - Is LR the New LG? - Some February test-takers have reported an increase in Logical Reasoning questions that “require” diagramming. Nathan and Ben suspect that these claims are more fiction than fact. You don’t need to diagram in LR. 28:30 - Oversharing on Applications - The guys share some common red flags in law school applications that people unwittingly raise by oversharing. 39:25 - Process of Elimination - Ben and Nathan explain when it’s okay to pick an answer via process of elimination. 42:55 - LSAT Writing - How important is LSAT Writing? Nathan and Ben discuss how law schools might consider—or ignore—these writing samples. 46:59 - Word of the Week - Bad LSAT prep stultifies students’ progress.…

Thinking LSAT

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Attack Each Argument (Ep. 493) 59:39

10 weeks ago59:39

59:39

You don’t conquer the LSAT with fifty-fifty guesses. You do it by carefully solving each question. This week, Nathan and Ben outline their plan of attack in Logical Reasoning, counsel a student who’s feeling unmotivated to study, and identify a common cause of score plateaus. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 493 on YouTube 1:33 - Staying Motivated - An anonymous listener struggles to stay motivated for LSAT study. Nathan and Ben recommend prioritizing quality over quantity and pursuing activities outside of LSAT prep. 7:45 - Don’t Apply Late - Law schools’ application deadlines shouldn’t be on your radar. To maximize your chances, apply early and broadly. 16:45 - Attack Each Argument - The vast majority of arguments in Logical Reasoning are bad. Excellence in LR comes from attacking each argument and finding flaws. 32:31 - Gap-Year Employment - Any work experience can be good work experience. Law schools won’t look down on you for putting a retail job on your résumé. 36:10 - Timed Sections vs. Practice Tests - Do your scores from individual timed sections accurately reflect how you’d perform on the official test? 38:49 - Score Plateau - The guys diagnose the cause of listener Daniel’s score plateau: poor accuracy. They instruct Daniel to slow down and practice getting questions right. 44:16 - Thirsty Law Schools - The University of Tulsa College of Law is offering unsolicited full-ride scholarships to students with LSAT scores at or above 160. 53:55 - Word of the Week - Law students must master the punctilio of legal writing.…

Thinking LSAT

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What If I Can’t Predict the Answer? (Ep. 492) 1:16:09

11 weeks ago1:16:09

1:16:09

The best LSAT students frequently predict the correct answer. But what do you do if your prediction isn’t there? This week, Nathan and Ben revisit their adaptable approach to prediction. The guys also share test-week advice for a February LSAT taker. They weigh in on binding early deferral programs. And they examine a law school in turmoil. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 492 on YouTube 1:30 - February LSAT Advice - Listener Max looks for test-week advice to help him crush the February LSAT—but Ben and Nathan don’t believe in last-minute tips and tricks. They urge Max not to take the LSAT until he’s happy with his practice test scores. 7:09 - Predictions and Question Types - Nathan and Ben discuss how to predict answers and what to do when your prediction doesn’t appear in the answer choices. Their approach is similar across question types. 24:39 - Learn from Your Mistakes - You don’t need to look for big lessons in every mistake.Your review should always address these two questions: (1) Why is the right answer right? (2) Why is the wrong answer wrong? 31:50 - Columbia LEAD Program - Ben and Nathan strongly discourage students from applying to binding early deferral programs like Columbia Law’s LEAD Fellowship. 38:22 - What’s the Deal with…? - Of all law schools in 2024, Penn State Law in University Park suffered the sharpest decline in their students’ LSAT scores. The guys investigate. 1:12:29 - Word of the Week - Other LSAT prep companies offer agglomerations of terrible tips and tricks.…

Thinking LSAT

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Beware of Scammerships (Ep. 491) 1:49:10

12 weeks ago1:49:10

1:49:10

Always read the fine print on your scholarship offers. This week, Nathan and Ben examine a low-ranked law school that reduces roughly two-thirds of its conditional scholarships every year. The guys also discuss the competitiveness of this year’s application cycle. They dismiss the idea that the LSAT is harder than it used to be. And they weigh the importance of law school rankings in deciding which school to attend. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 491 on YouTube 0:35 - A Competitive Cycle - Nathan and Ben check the numbers for this highly competitive application cycle. They speculate about what might be causing the upward trend in applicants and LSAT scores. 19:05 - Is the LSAT Getting Harder? - After every LSAT, some test-takers complain that their official LSAT was more difficult than their practice tests. They’re imagining it. The LSAT is as difficult as it’s ever been: not very. 24:28 - Ask of the Week - The guys highlight Elizabeth’s insightful Ask Button explanation about unrepresentative samples. 42:38 - Law School Rankings - How much should you care about law school rankings? It depends. Ben and Nathan urge listener Kenley to factor the cost of attendance into their decision. 51:20 - What’s the Deal with…? - Nathan and Ben look into California Western School of Law, a low-ranked school that doles out dubious scholarships or, as the guys call them, “scammerships.” 1:42:59 - Word of the Week - Students dread the panopticon of remote LSAT proctoring.…

Thinking LSAT

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Law Schools Underreport Scholarships (Ep. 490) 1:13:17

13 weeks ago1:13:17

1:13:17

The law school application cycle is far from over, but some disappointed applicants are starting to wonder: “What did I do wrong?” This week, Nathan and Ben point out some potential red flags that may have hurt one listener’s applications. The guys also explain how to develop speed on the LSAT, caution applicants against oversharing in optional essays, and bemoan the confusing state of ABA 509 reports. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 490 on YouTube 1:22 - Tips from a Departing Demon - LSAT Demon student James writes: “Don't give up! Fight like you’re the third monkey on the ramp to the Ark and it’s starting to rain!” 3:16 - Disappointing Cycle - An anonymous listener wasn’t offered the scholarships they expected. Ben and Nathan try to figure out what went wrong. 20:44 - Slow Down to Speed Up - The guys assure listener Adriana that speed will come naturally if she sticks with her accuracy-first approach. 25:56 - Optional Essay - An anonymous listener considers emailing law schools a diversity statement to belatedly add to their applications. Ben and Nathan oppose this plan. 30:02 - What’s the Deal with…? - The guys investigate another law school that’s been climbing the rankings in recent years: the University of Georgia School of Law. 1:00:36 - ABA 509 Scholarship Confusion - Nathan and Ben criticize the obfuscation of scholarship data in ABA 509 reports. 1:09:14 - Word of the Week - Straightforward 509 reports are the desideratum .…

Thinking LSAT

1
Don't Fear Timed Practice (Ep. 489) 1:27:17

14 weeks ago1:27:17

1:27:17

Drilling is great, but you need to do timed sections too. This week, Ben and Nathan highlight the importance of timed practice and explain how to manage negative emotions from practice test scores. The guys also discuss letters of recommendation, reading speed in RC, and online law schools. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 489 on YouTube 1:05 - 175 or Bust? - Listener Andria is committed to pursuing a 99th percentile LSAT score. Nathan and Ben applaud Andria’s zeal but question her insistence on attending a top-ranked law school. 10:57 - Letters of Recommendation - Older applicants may struggle to obtain academic letters of recommendation. Can they get by with letters from professional acquaintances? 19:58 - RC Pacing and Stress - Listener Maya is stressed about spending too much time on the first passage in RC. Ben and Nathan implore Maya to ignore the clock and to stop trying to finish sections. 31:40 - Timed Section Fear - Many LSAT students avoid taking timed sections. Nathan and Ben discuss why you should treat timed sections as opportunities for growth—and not as IQ tests. 45:07 - Note-Taking in Review - Ben and Nathan discourage note-taking when reviewing mistakes. 51:11 - Desperate Law Schools - The guys read some holiday-themed messages sent by law schools that are desperate for applications and seat deposits. 1:17:06 - Online and Hybrid Law Schools - Nathan and Ben support Abbie’s interest in online and hybrid law school—as long as the price is right. 1:22:39 - Word of the Week - Lawyers are often accused of solipsism .…

Thinking LSAT

1
Pre-Law Predators (Ep. 488) 1:17:16

15 weeks ago1:17:16

1:17:16

Can you trust your pre-law advisor? Not necessarily. This week Ben and Nathan criticize schools that mislead pre-law students about their law-school prospects. The guys also share simple tactics for ignoring the clock on the LSAT, and they calm a listener who’s frustrated by their progress in Reading Comprehension. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 488 on YouTube 1:28 - Fighting Bad Habits - Ben and Nathan share some tips for regaining your composure when you catch yourself rushing on timed practice. Here’s a simple one: breathe. 7:37 - RC Blues - Listener De’Andre wants to improve faster in Reading Comprehension. Nathan and Ben instruct De’Andre to stop looking for shortcuts and to work on understanding one sentence at a time. 17:24 - What’s the Deal with…? - The guys pass judgment on the University of Kansas School of Law. 1:06:09 - 3+3 Program - An anonymous listener declines some unhelpful guidance from their prelaw advisor. 1:12:22 - Word of the Week - We accept as an axiom that the LSAT makes perfect sense.…

Thinking LSAT

1
Can Retaking Hurt You? (Ep. 487) 1:33:01

16 weeks ago1:33:01

1:33:01

Do law schools look unfavorably at applicants who retake the LSAT? This week, Ben and Nathan insist that any downsides to retaking the LSAT are negligible, while the upsides can be life-changing. The guys also dispel the myth of “overthinking,” rail against obscurantist 509 reports, and probe Ben’s alma mater: George Washington Law. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 487 on YouTube 3:49 - Law School Exams - A long-time listener describes how studying LSAT Logic Games helped prepare them for law school exams. 13:30 - T14 Scholarships - The guys discuss a T14 law school’s deceptive messaging about scholarships. 21:59 - Overthinking - LSAT students often blame their mistakes on “overthinking.” But you’re far more likely to miss a question because you didn’t think about it enough. 32:21 - Ask Button - Nathan and Ben celebrate the LSAT Demon Ask Button team. 34:47 - Retaking with a High Score - Ben and Nathan revisit a recent discussion about the potential downsides of retaking the LSAT when you already have a high score. The guys maintain that there’s only upside to retaking. 56:03 - What’s the Deal with…? - Nathan and Ben look into George Washington University School of Law, a regional law school in Washington, D.C. 1:29:52 - Word of the Week - We offer this podcast for your delectation .…

Thinking LSAT

1
New Law School Admissions Data (Ep. 486) 1:24:27

17 weeks ago1:24:27

1:24:27

Nathan and Ben dig into newly released admissions data and discuss the impact of the Supreme Court’s affirmative action ban. Later, the guys advocate greater transparency in law school pricing, assess JD-Next as an alternative to the LSAT, and investigate the ascendent Texas A&M School of Law. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 486 on YouTube 4:25 - New Law School Enrollment Data - The ABA just released law schools’ Standard 509 disclosures for 2024. Ben and Nathan discuss what the numbers mean for URM admissions following the Supreme Court’s affirmative action ban. 14:55 - Scholarships - ABA 509 reports now define full-tuition scholarships as “scholarships that cover tuition and mandatory fees.” Listener Emma wonders if this definition allows law schools to obscure their scholarship numbers. Nathan and Ben consider solutions to law schools’ discriminatory pricing model. 31:20 - JD-Next - Some law schools now report the number of enrolled students who took JD-Next, an alternative law school admissions test. So far, those numbers are low. 34:30 - What’s the Deal with…? - Ben and Nathan look into Texas A&M University School of Law, which has rocketed up the US News rankings in recent years. 1:16:56 - Read Every Answer - The guys explain why you should read every answer on every LSAT question. 1:21:57 - Word of the Week - Thinking LSAT listeners should avail themselves of LSAT Demon’s free classes at lsatdemon.com/free .…

Thinking LSAT

1
Every Word Matters (Ep. 485) 1:11:01

18 weeks ago1:11:01

1:11:01

Good lawyers aren’t afraid to pause when they don’t understand something. They read and reread until they figure it out. This week, Ben and Nathan discuss why this lawyerly trait is crucial to mastering the LSAT. Later, the guys reject a purported downside to retaking the LSAT. They speculate about AI’s impact on the legal profession. And they consider the value of paying for the prestige of a top law school. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 485 on YouTube 1:46 - Every Word Matters - LSAT beginners and veterans alike make most of their mistakes because of sloppy reading. Ben and Nathan urge listeners to read like lawyers: every word matters. 23:32 - Pearls vs. Turds - Will law school admissions officers brand you as a “perfectionist” if you retake the LSAT? Would that label hurt your admissions chances? 34:41 - AI and Law - Listener Charlie worries about AI’s impact on the legal profession. Nathan and Ben argue that AI will empower attorneys, not replace them. 44:47 - Pay for Prestige? - Listener Trip wants to practice family law in a small city. The guys advise Trip to attend a regional law school on a full-ride scholarship rather than pay for the prestige of a higher-ranked school. 50:55 - LSAT and ADHD - Listener Victoria feels overwhelmed by the length of the passages in Reading Comprehension. Ben and Nathan encourage Victoria to focus on one sentence at a time. 57:26 - Tutoring - The guys discuss when students should pursue one-on-one LSAT tutoring and how to make the most of it. 1:03:21 - Low GPA - Soft factors don’t make up for—or excuse—a low GPA. Nathan and Ben urge listener Elis to prioritize grades over extracurriculars. 1:07:67 - Word of the Week - The University of Texas at Austin School of Law prefers “Texas Law” to the more pithy sobriquet “UT.”…

Thinking LSAT

1
Test-Optional Admissions (Ep. 484) 1:20:41

19 weeks ago1:20:41

1:20:41

The American Bar Association will soon allow law schools to admit more students without standardized test scores. Is that good for applicants? This week, Nathan and Ben discuss why test-optional admissions might not benefit students (and why you should probably still take the LSAT). The guys also outline the qualities of a successful law student, share tips on how to get faster, and investigate a well-regarded law school in New York City. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 484 on YouTube 9:21 - Law School Is for Nerds - Listener Steve struggles to shake off his underperformance on the November LSAT. Ben and Nathan question whether Steve is cut out for law school. 20:58 - When Should I Take the LSAT? - The guys double down on their advice not to register for the LSAT until you’re happy with your practice test scores. 31:29 - Test-Optional Admissions - Some law schools might soon bypass the ABA’s admission test requirement , allowing them to admit more students without LSAT scores. Nathan and Ben have doubts about whether this is good for law school applicants. 40:30 - Getting Faster - An anonymous LSAT Demon student asks how to get faster while maintaining high accuracy. Ben and Nathan advise Anonymous to pursue even greater accuracy and to dismiss wrong answers more confidently. 51:01 - There Can Be Only One - Fifty-fifty guesses aren’t good enough. The guys explain why the best LSAT students eliminate all five answers more often than they debate multiple answers. 56:40 - What’s the Deal With…? - Nathan and Ben examine the admissions numbers and employment outcomes at Fordham Law School, which has a reputation as a non-T14 pathway to NYC big law. 1:13:58 - Tips from a Departing Demon - LSAT Demon student Caleb writes: “To anyone that is beginning their LSAT journey or their time with the Demon, learn to love it. Make it a game.” 1:16:58 - Word of the Week - Not all law schools are located in cities with salubrious climates.…

Thinking LSAT

1
The Worst Law School in America? (Ep. 483) 1:29:25

20 weeks ago1:29:25

1:29:25

Some have called Cooley Law School the “worst law school in America.” Is it? Nathan and Ben investigate. The guys also demonstrate their approach to Strengthen questions, advocate a spoiler-free method of review, and compare the importance of GPA and undergraduate institution prestige. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 483 on YouTube 2:41 - Logical Reasoning: Strengthen - Ben and Nathan explain why correct answers on Strengthen questions don’t simply repeat the premises. Then the guys tackle a Strengthen question from PrepTest 123. Try the question for yourself , then listen to their explanation. 37:26 - No Spoilers - Nathan and Ben encourage LSAT Demon student Vivian to reattempt the questions that she misses before reviewing the Demon’s explanations. 47:01 - Military Personal Statement - The guys advise listener Matt on how to write a personal statement that highlights his military experience without overselling it. 52:12 - Undergraduate Prestige - Your GPA matters more than the reputation of your undergraduate institution. 1:00:42 - What’s the Deal With…? - Ben and Nathan examine the admissions statistics and bar passage rate at Cooley Law School. 1:23:12 - Tips from a Departing Demon - LSAT Demon student Isabella writes: “The Demon really works, and it is actually easy! I thought that was a lie, but by the end of prep, I could make predictions on every question (usually multiple predictions). Doing a real focused hour every day gave me a 24-point improvement.” 1:24:45 - Word of the Week - Law schools goose their rankings by giving tuition discounts to high-scoring applicants.…

Thinking LSAT

1
Stop Planning and Start Studying (Ep. 482) 1:30:59

21 weeks ago1:30:59

1:30:59

Planning to study isn’t studying. This week, Nathan and Ben urge listeners to stop overthinking their study schedules and to start doing LSAT questions—one day, one hour, one question at a time. The guys also discuss conditional scholarships, optional questions on law school applications, and Pepperdine Caruso School of Law. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 482 on YouTube 0:36 - Parental Pressure - An anonymous listener rages at their dad’s intrusion into their LSAT study. The guys encourage Anonymous to have a little sympathy. 9:06 - Study Schedule - You can make great progress with one focused hour of study per day . Ben and Nathan outline the best ways to use that hour: mix timed and untimed practice, promptly review mistakes, focus on understanding, and don’t overthink your study schedule. 39:41 - Conditional Scholarships - An anonymous listener received a scholarship offer that would require them to remain in “good academic standing.” Nathan and Ben assure Anonymous that this is normal. 50:10 - Alumni Connections - Some law school applications invite you to share any personal connections to alumni. Ben and Nathan discuss how applicants might use these connections without losing focus on what’s most important. 56:28 - Disclosing Your School List - Law schools might ask you which schools you’re applying to. Nathan and Ben explain why some law schools ask this question and how you should respond. 1:00:52 - What’s the Deal With…? - The guys pull back the curtain on Pepperdine Caruso School of Law, a conservative-leaning private school in Malibu, California. 1:26:26 - Tips from a Departing Demon - LSAT Demon student Samuel writes: “There are no gimmicks that can possibly match the value of skill.” 1:28:35 - Word of the Week - There are too many extant law schools.…

Thinking LSAT

1
Correlation vs. Causation (Ep. 481) 1:19:44

22 weeks ago1:19:44

1:19:44

Confusing correlation for causation is one of the most common flaws that you’ll encounter on the LSAT. Until you learn to spot it, you’re leaving points on the table. This week, Nathan and Ben demonstrate a three-step process for objecting to an argument that confuses correlation for causation. Later, the guys analyze a listener’s underperformance on her official tests. They weigh in on practice test frequency. And they investigate a low-ranked law school that offers a laughable perk to early decision applicants. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 481 on YouTube 1:44 - Logical Reasoning: Weaken - The guys tackle a Weaken question from PrepTest 141. Try the question for yourself , then listen to Nathan and Ben’s explanation. 18:19 - Test Violation - Remote LSAT test takers are prohibited from using mobile hotspots. An anonymous listener didn’t know this and their test was canceled as a result. The guys advise Anonymous on how to proceed. 23:26 - Don’t Rush Your Applications - Listener Melany isn’t ready to apply to law school, but she risks getting kicked out of her prelaw assistance program if she doesn’t apply this cycle. Ben and Nathan discuss Melany’s options and urge her not to settle for a low LSAT score. 33:52 - Replicating Practice Test Success - Listener Victoria has underperformed on two official test attempts. Nathan and Ben share tips on how to replicate her practice test scores when she takes the official test. 45:45 - Practice Test Schedule - LSAT Demon student Jess asks if she should avoid taking full practice tests until she’s improved her timed section scores. Ben and Nathan encourage Jess not to overhype her practice tests. 50:39 - What’s the Deal with…? - Nathan and Ben investigate the admissions stats and job outcomes at Liberty University School of Law . 1:11:55 - Tips from a Departing Demon - LSAT Demon student Reese writes: “Feign interest and read carefully. There is no need to highlight. Just ensure you're understanding what you're reading, and you'll be fine.” 1:16:15 - Word of the Week - Ben and Nathan show predatory law schools their due obloquy .…

Thinking LSAT

1
How Do I Get Faster? (Ep. 480) 1:03:30

23 weeks ago1:03:30

1:03:30

The only reliable way to get faster on the LSAT is by slowing down and solving one question at a time. This week, Nathan and Ben remind students of their simple mantra for going faster on the LSAT: Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast. Later, the guys discuss why applicants taking the January LSAT should wait until next cycle to apply. They share some high-level tips for Reading Comprehension. And they outline the process for submitting letters of recommendation. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 480 on YouTube 1:13 - Eliminating All Five Answers - If you follow Ben and Nathan’s advice, you will occasionally eliminate all five answer choices. This is not a mistake. It’s a symptom of a healthy approach to the LSAT. 12:24 - Stop Chasing Speed - LSAT Demon student Nathan is frustrated that he isn’t reaching the final passage in RC. Nathan and Ben double down on their advice to ignore the clock and focus on accuracy. 21:11 - Is January Too Late to Apply? - Listener AB plans to take the January LSAT. Can they still apply this cycle? Ben and Nathan urge AB to focus on the LSAT before committing to an application timeline. 26:22 - Retaking Classes - An anonymous listener considers retaking two classes in order to improve their GPA. The guys explain why this might not have the impact that Anonymous expects. 30:13 - RC Tips for a High Scorer - Nathan and Ben share some RC tips for a high-level student: Make predictions, treat Inference questions like they’re Must Be True questions, and build confidence with thorough review. 40:00 - Will I See My LORs? - Ben and Nathan outline the process for submitting letters of recommendation. 43:03 - Scoring 170 - Nathan and Ben warn listener Manan not to chase a set number of questions per section. The guys insist that goals like these are always counterproductive. 48:33 - Logical Reasoning: Supported - The guys tackle a Supported question from PrepTest 141. Try the question for yourself . Then listen to Ben and Nathan’s explanation. 1:00:40 - Word of the Week - Scofflaws are unlikely to thrive as lawyers.…

Thinking LSAT

1
Guessing Isn't Good Enough (Ep. 479) 1:17:03

24 weeks ago1:17:03

1:17:03

Price is the most important factor in many students’ law school decisions. So why is law school pricing so shady? This week, Nathan and Ben imagine a kinder world where everyone pays the same price for law school. The guys also hear from a successful student who stopped taking notes in Reading Comprehension. They discuss their approach to Parallel Reasoning questions. And they share tips for dealing with anxiety in timed sections. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 479 on YouTube 1:07 - No Notes on Reading Comprehension - Listener Caroline followed Ben and Nathan’s advice to stop taking notes in RC. Caroline calls it the “best decision ever.” Now she’s not just transcribing passages—she’s engaging with them on a deeper level. 6:30 - Don’t Go with Your Gut - Listener Alyssa believes that she needs to go with her gut when picking between two answer choices. Nathan and Ben disagree. They insist that fifty-fifty guesses aren’t good enough and instruct Alyssa to read the passage more carefully. 16:05 - Reviewing Correct Answers - The guys explain why it can still be useful to review questions you answered correctly. 20:25 - Parallel Reasoning - Arguments in Parallel Reasoning questions can be flawed even if the question doesn’t explicitly mention flawed reasoning. 31:48 - LSAT Cancellation Addendum - An anonymous listener canceled an LSAT score for a test they took while sick with COVID. Ben and Nathan advise against writing an addendum to explain the cancellation. 39:16 - Timed Section Anxiety - Listener Ethan gets easily flustered by the five minute warning at the end of timed sections. Nathan and Ben share some tips on how to forget the clock. 47:52 - What’s the Deal with…? - Listener Bryan intends to practice law in Texas. Should Bryan apply to any out-of-state law schools? Ben and Nathan consider Bryan’s options and ask “What’s the deal with Tulane University School of Law?” 1:07:26 - GPA Addendum - The guys draft a short addendum for a listener whose university doesn’t award A+’s. 1:10:06 - Tips from a Departing Demon - LSAT Demon student Russell writes: “Trust the process. Slow down, read what it is saying, and find the answer that answers the question.” 1:11:56 - Word of the Week - Your old LSAT prep books might be offal .…

Thinking LSAT

1
Refuse to Pick Wrong Answers (Ep. 478) 1:21:05

25 weeks ago1:21:05

1:21:05

Ben and Nathan aren’t impressed when you narrow an LSAT question down to two answer choices. This week, the guys discuss why those who conquer the LSAT don’t settle for fifty-fifty guesses. They also share common mistakes made by LSAT beginners, examine a troubling admissions practice, and weigh in on “Why X?” statements in law school applications. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 478 on YouTube 1:43 - Beginner LSAT Mistakes to Avoid - Nathan and Ben list some common mistakes made by beginner LSAT students. They encourage newcomers to focus on quality over quantity and to thoroughly review their mistakes. 9:53 - Confusing Answer Choices - The LSAT sometimes uses confusing language in the answer choices. Ben and Nathan suggest a backdoor approach to picking the correct answer: Refuse to pick a wrong one. 13:51 - Logical Reasoning: Flaw - The guys tackle a Flaw question from PrepTest 123. Try the question for yourself . Then listen to Ben and Nathan’s explanation. 35:06 - Getting Unstuck - An anonymous listener asks how to move forward when they’re stuck debating multiple answer choices. Nathan and Ben instruct Anonymous to reread the passage to discover the source of their misunderstanding. 45:06 - What’s the Deal with…? - The guys debut a new recurring segment by asking: “What’s the deal with the University of Washington Law School?” Listener Hannah unearths an admissions practice that some might call predatory. 1:03:01 - Canadian Law Schools - Listener Josh questions the importance of a high LSAT score for applicants to Canadian law schools. 1:06:09 - Target Schools - Ben and Nathan urge listener N not to limit their focus to a small list of regional target schools. 1:10:52 - Application Essays - Listener Josh relays some dubious advice regarding law school application essays. 1:16:19 - Tips from a Departing Demon - LSAT Demon student Leah says: “Keep drilling LR every spare minute. I drilled LR while walking the dog, on my lunch break, in line at Starbucks. If you have five minutes, try and do 2 LR questions.” 1:18:14 - Word of the Week - Extirpate gimmicks from your approach to the LSAT.…

Thinking LSAT

1
How We Predict Answers (Ep. 477) 54:36

26 weeks ago54:36

54:36

The best LSAT students make strong predictions before reading the answer choices, but they remain open to correct answers that don’t match their predictions. This week, Ben and Nathan outline their flexible approach to prediction. Later, the guys advise students to set aside plenty of time for reviewing mistakes. They also discuss the possibility of a more competitive law school application cycle. And they explain why it shouldn’t matter whether you take the LSAT at home or at a testing center. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 477 on YouTube 0:52 - A More Competitive Cycle? LSAT registrations are up 18% compared to last year. Does that signal a more competitive admissions cycle? 5:37 - Make a Prediction Nathan and Ben describe the process of predicting answers on the LSAT. Predict an answer, revise your prediction to fit the question, and remain open to other options when you read the answer choices. 15:35 - Study Schedule Listener Cali worries that she spends too much time reviewing mistakes and not enough time drilling new questions. Ben and Nathan assure Cali that review is the most important part of LSAT prep. 27:48 - Remote vs. Testing Center Should you take the LSAT at home or at a testing center? Nathan and Ben insist that the best LSAT students shouldn’t care where they take the test. 32:26 - Bar Passage Rates Top law schools tend to have high bar passage rates. But as LSAT students know, correlation does not equal causation. 36:05 - LSAT Timeline Ben and Nathan urge listener Connor to put off LSAT prep and focus on his undergraduate grades. 43:22 - FAFO Don’t FAFO in your law school applications.The guys implore listener Brad to apply only with his best LSAT score. 52:08 - Tips from a Departing Demon LSAT Demon student Camille says: “Please keep your faith in the process, and most importantly, yourself. Work hard, work smart, and keep pushing. You CAN do this.”…

Thinking LSAT

1
LSAT Prep Is Law School Prep (Ep. 476) 1:14:58

27 weeks ago1:14:58

1:14:58

The LSAT tests three main things: reading comprehension, critical thinking, and work ethic. All of those are also crucial to success in law school. This week, Nathan and Ben discuss how LSAT prep goes hand in hand with law school prep. The guys also react to new restrictions on legacy admissions. They compare scholarship outcomes for full-time and part-time students. And they write the only LSAT addendum you’ll ever need. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 476 on YouTube 4:08 - Career Change - Ben and Nathan advise listener Shirley to do some research before she commits to a career change. The guys also recommend a consistent LSAT study schedule, and they press Shirley to aim for a score in the 160s or higher. 14:00 - Legacy Admissions - California recently became the fifth state to ban legacy and donor preferences in college admissions. Nathan and Ben are skeptical that the new law will have much of an effect. 20:55 - Score Variance - The guys assure listener Daniel that it’s perfectly normal to score in a ten-point range on practice tests. 23:44 - LSAT Addendum - Some law schools invite applicants to submit an addendum explaining any significant LSAT score increase. Ben and Nathan question schools’ motivation for soliciting this addendum. 33:56 - Law School Prep - Listener Jack is worried that a great LSAT score might oversell his ability to compete at a top law school. Nathan and Ben ease Jack’s concerns: LSAT prep is good law school prep. 43:02 - Apply in February? - Listener Jackson asks if applying as late as February would diminish his admissions chances. Ben and Nathan urge Jackson to apply next cycle. 47:52 - Scholarships for Part-Time Students - Law schools differ in how they award scholarships to part-time students. Applicants to part-time programs should check law schools’ ABA 509 reports before applying. 53:11 - Logical Reasoning: Conclusion - The guys tackle a Conclusion question from PrepTest 123. Try the question for yourself . Then, listen to Ben and Nathan’s explanation. 1:04:55 - Tips from a Departing Demon - LSAT Demon student Jimmy says: “You are going to hate the idea of slowing down to speed up. You are going to hate not finishing sections at times. However, it is Ben and Nathan's most important advice.” 1:09:59 - Word of the Week - Applying late in the cycle can be tantamount to applying with a lower LSAT score.…

Thinking LSAT

1
Learn to Love the LSAT (Ep. 475) 1:01:21

28 weeks ago1:01:21

1:01:21

The most successful LSAT students are the ones who love the test—but finding that love can be challenging. This week, Ben and Erik discuss why positive self-talk is vital to your relationship with the LSAT. Later, the guys criticize law schools’ moratorium on AI use for applications. They explore possible causes of score variance. And they help a listener navigate family pressure to apply before they’re ready. Study with our Free Plan Download our iOS app Watch Episode 475 on YouTube 5:35 - Learn to Love the LSAT - Listener Lani wants to love the LSAT, but she’s frustrated by her slow progress. Erik and Ben encourage Lani to adjust her mindset. They recommend a scaled-back study schedule that focuses on drilling instead of timed practice. 15:48 - AI and Applications - Law schools have taken different stances on whether applicants can use AI while preparing their applications. 25:06 - Losing Momentum - An anonymous listener worries that they’re losing momentum after a hot start to their LSAT journey. Ben and Erik assure Anon that progress is rarely linear. 31:15 - Score Variance - Erik and Ben explain what causes score variance and why it’s perfectly normal to score in a broad range. 36:36 - 20-Point Underperformance An anonymous listener underperformed their practice tests by 20 points on the September LSAT. Ben and Erik try to figure out what went wrong. 41:00 - Family Pressure to Apply - An anonymous listener faces parental pressure to apply to law school this year, but they’d rather retake and apply next cycle. Erik and Ben invite Anonymous’s parents to visit lsat.link/parents to learn how they can support their child’s LSAT journey. 48:53 - URM Bump - It’s too early to know whether minority applicants will continue to receive a “URM bump” in law school admissions. 55:11 - Tips from a Departing Demon - LSAT Demon Josh says: “When reading the passage, I often look away from the text and think about what I just read.” 58:50 - Word of the Week - Thinking LSAT listeners are adroit at the LSAT.…

Thinking LSAT

1
Why We Don't Take Notes (Ep. 474) 1:04:46

29 weeks ago1:04:46