So it is finally here... that dreaded law school exam prep period.
Classes are winding down, your outlines are fattening up, and the stress begins.
Have no fear! I've gone through this process a few times already, and am ready to share what I found to be the best and most effective study method.
Remember, everyone's study method is different. So if this schedule is too much or too little for you, try to tweak it for what works. The most important thing is thoroughness and consistency.
Without thoroughness, you cannot expect to spot all of the issues on the exam. That's why I place a huge emphasis on reviewing the semester's material. Without consistency you cannot expect to be better. This is why scheduling your important dates is essential.
before I share my checklist, here are some links to my favorite planners that have been essential to keeping me organized and on top of my exam prep.
THE CHECKLIST:
Get Relevant Dates
exam dates
floating exam dates
last day of class
review session or class
last day to talk to the professor
Mark Your Planner!
Break Down Each Class
Assess Each Class
Schedule it Out
Order Your Study Schedule
TAKE! PRACTICE! EXAMS!
TL; DR:
Schedule your exam dates & rest days before
Schedule 2 or 3 practice exams (based on credit hours for that class)
Schedule a day to have your outline done (BEFORE the review session)
See how far behind you are in each class and schedule when you’ll play catch up
Once you’re caught up with reading (ex: where you’d be if you’d stayed on top all year)
Start doing your outline in parts
Once your outlines are done
Start reteaching yourself material in parts
You’ll start getting to the dates of your practice exams, take them!
If there aren’t sample answers, compare with someone else
ASK THE PROFESSOR about confusion, their way to answer exams Qs is best!
Wish you all the best of luck during exam season. Stay focused, stay committed, and know that you are your only limitation.
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