In training for the LSAT, I used only official preptests sold by LSAC. Many past reviewers recommended studying multiple books, like those available by Kaplan or Princeton Review. I have found that Kaplan and other study aides add to the confusion many test takers experience, and Kaplan even admits that its study guides do not help 40% of those who buy the books.
If you want to do well on the LSAT, this is the way to study:
Your first purchase should the 10 Actual, Official LSAT PrepTests. This book includes two 1993 tests, four tests from 1994, and four tests from 1995. The last test has a typo and says that, even though it is test 18, it is from December 1992. This typo is the only one in the book, and does not harm the tests in any way. The PrepTest book will give several of real LSATs to take, though without question analysis. All of the answers are given, but they are not explained. I find this to be a bonus, because I believe that a test taker can learn more from figuring out why the answer is what is, instead of just going by the problematical answers Kaplan gives. Kaplans answers have a tendency to be too long and lack an accurate answer. It is similar to when a person is talking but they are not really saying anything.
Just getting used to taking the test is the most important part of the preparation process. If you finish all ten tests, get the newer 10 More Actual, Official LSAT PrepTests.
DO NOT buy Kaplans LSAT 180. It is full of the toughest questions that KAPLAN could MAKE UP. These questions are so bogus that they lowered everyone in my study groups score: we all had scores over 170 before this book. On one page, Kaplan gave two complete different explanations for two questions that were the exact same type of question. Kaplans answers to MADE UP questions are lacking judgment. Kaplan is simply too lazy to buy official questions.
Also, both www.LSAC.org and Amazon have individual PrepTests available for $8 each. Get the latest tests: these arent a good buy like the books of ten, but seeing the most up to date material - even if its just 1 or 2 tests - is worth it. If you are not in a hurry, you can get the tests free of shipping from LSAC, and they have the MOST RECENT tests, while Amazon tends to lack the two most recent tests.
Specifically, get the June 2000 (PrepTest 31) exam. This contains the notorious "CD Game," the second game, which is commonly considered the most complicated LSAT logic game ever.
BUT...
If you REALLY want to, go ahead and pay in the thousands for a LSAT class prep course, like those offered by Kaplan and Princeton Review. I do not suggest doing that, but confidence is essential for acing the LSAT. If you feel that taking an over-priced prep course will boast your self-assurance, feel free to do so.
