Hey everyone! I've been a longtime discussion board lurker, but this is my first time posting for advice, so here goes...

For context, I started studying about 16 months ago, and I'd say I've done a good job staying consistent throughout that period while also working full-time. My diagnostic was a 158 in Dec 2024, and, since then, I have worked my way up to an average in the 170s using 7Sage.

I took the official test for the first time in October 2024 when I was averaging about 170, but I scored a 165. I retook in November and matched my 170 average. I was pleased with my Nov score and the hard work that went into it, but I ultimately kept studying for February.

I felt like I was making a lot of progress and seeing consistency in the weeks leading up to the exam: my PTs directly before were 170, 175, 177, 179 (the ones before that were retakes so I don't count those as reflective for score diagnostic purposes).

I felt confident going into test day, but I ultimately ended up with a 171. I am glad I improved, and I know this is a great score, but I can't help but feel disappointed, as I feel like my PTs leading up to test day indicate that I am capable of more.

To note, I was careful to take these PTs in accordance with true timing/break requirements, and I tried to make my physical PT environment/routine as close as possible to test day. I also very much tried to prioritize wellness in the month leading up to the test (sleep/food/cutting drinking etc). There is nothing I can put my finger on externally that I think would've been a huge game changer in that respect. I also BR/WAJ in depth after drills and PTs.

So, that brings me to my ultimate question: should I retake for a fourth time?

My ultimate goal has always been somewhere in the 173-175 range (dreaming big for T-14), and I want to get there, but I am worried because I have heard that after 3 LSAT attempts law schools might begin to be critical of additional takes. Does the risk outweigh the reward?

Grateful for any advice from fellow studiers and LSAT legends alike (summoning the greats @J.Y.Ping & @KevinLin with a ouija logic game board lol).