The LSAT is enormously important and you should train for it as if your future depends on it.

Your LSAT score is probably the main determinant of what schools you can get into and how much merit-based financial aid you will receive

Your first step in studying for the LSAT should be to take a practice test and set a realistic goal for your improvement.

If you are starting with a practice score in the 140s, remember that you will want to take your improvement in stages.

Aim for a 155 or 160 and then set your next goal.

If you are starting with a 155, do not aim directly for a 180, but set your major goal as a 170.

The following four essential components of LSAT preparation:

Making a plan
Learning the material
Practice, practice, practice
Targeted review of problem areas

Taking the LSAT requires several months of dedicated study

Having the proper mentality and learning the material are near meaningless without tons and tons of practice. This practice should come in two forms:

Full, timed practice tests
Targeted problem sets

Taking at least 25 practice LSAT tests not only gets you ready to take the real thing

Identifying these patterns can be the difference between scoring a 165 and a 170 on the LSAT.