Tips on Taking Law School Exams

ONLINE ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAM
FOR LAW STUDENTS

Ruta Stropus
Assistant Dean for Educational Services and Director
Academic Support Program, DePaul University College of Law.

Before the Exam
There is no Substitute for Preparation

It starts with memorization. Divide the number of pages of your outline by the days you have allotted to study that subject. This is the amount your need to cover each day.

It ends with application - practice the practice exams. Know yourself, study in the most optimal learning environment for you. Try Mozart.

Reduce your outline to a flowchart. Focus on the links between and among the items in your chart.

Research your professor - likes; dislikes.

During the Exam
Establish a Ritual

Brain dump your flowchart [issue list] on the inside of the Bluebook. Write the word BECAUSE in bold letters on top of your exam booklet.

Read the exam three times - once for priority; twice for issues; third time for content.

List the issues next to each sentence of the fact pattern.

Check off the issues next to your flowchart once you identify them on the exam.

Highlight and answer only what is asked of you.

Do not psyche yourself out by looking for "trick" questions.

Organize your answer by person or action.

Write in [PRE-IRAC-C].

Analysis is key - give an A; get an A. Focus on the main argument and if there is one, the opposing argument.

Give up when time is up.

After the Exam
Move on and Replenish

Do not speak to anyone about the exam after the exam.

Do not plan to study the night after taking an exam.

Start afresh the next day.

Law School Boot Camp
Application Deadline
May 15, 2008

Passing the Bar
Supplemental Coaching

February 2008 Bar
Application Deadline
November 30, 2007

July 2008 Bar
Application Deadline
March 30, 2008

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Always Under Construction

Last Updated:
Wednesday, July 04, 2007

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Always Under Construction

Last Updated: Wednesday, July 04, 2007 You are visitor #: to Exam Preparation and Participation.

Last Updated:
Wednesday, July 04, 2007

You are visitor #:

to Exam Preparation and Participation.