I'm curious -- for those who have already taken the virtual LSAT -- what device did you use? (i.e., 13" Macbook, 16" Macbook) I have been using a 27" Mac desktop but I'll be taking the LSAT from a hotel and am not sure bringing the desktop will be practical (although it's a possibility).
My laptop is seriously outdated so I'll need to purchase another but I'm kind of freaking out about screen size?
If anyone can help, please reply to this thread with your device and what you liked/disliked about your LSAT experience!
As someone with pretty severe anxiety (generalized anxiety disorder even beyond test-taking anxiety), I can say that it was not until my fourth time taking the test that I felt completely at ease.
During the first through third administrations, the anxiety I felt about the tests was overwhelming, and this feeling of dread occurred not only during the exams but also before the exams/test day mornings as well. In fact, during my third LSAT I had a panic attack that started during the second section and continued throughout the entirety of the exam.
Truly, the only thing that has helped ease this anxiety has been my growing familiarity with the material and, subsequently, the confidence I have in my own abilities. By the time I took my fourth exam (September 2022, around 8 months after my third exam in January 2022) I KNEW I had more knowledge of the material, so I went into the exam trusting I'd be able to test in a way that reflected my abilities. So worrying about being unprepared (an anxiety trigger) did not really get in the way that day.
I will also say I planned out the entire morning of my test day to avoid any stressors. While I did follow my otherwise normal daily routine (wake up at a decent time, daily cleaning routine, big breakfast, workout) I also pumped myself up by listening to Beyonce's new album. I set up a snack for the 10-minute break, and quite literally jumped/shook around when I was able to move around for those ten minutes. It's important not to overthink sure, but it's also important to remember that every minute (even those not utilized physically taking the exam) are crucial. Definitely do what works for YOU, though, and not necessarily what people recommend-- i.e., some people try implementing habits that are not conducive to success or their personal preferences, simply because they think it might help. If something works for you, do it. If something doesn't work for you, don't.
So, in my experience, the only way to avoid anxiety about the LSAT is assert control over everything you CAN control. You CAN control how much you study/how prepared you are. You CAN control the daily routines/practices that contribute to your general state of being. You CAN control what your test day looks like. Maybe you won't know exactly what questions they will ask on test day, but by limiting the uncontrollable variables on test day, you can limit your anxiety.
And for what it's worth (although numbers are different for everyone and everyone's journey is different!) I scored 7 points higher on my fourth exam than my highest score (164 from a 157, which was my second LSAT, the third test where I had a panic attack I scored two points lower with a 155) and I'm going to test again in October. Don't give up!! Anxiety is normal. Instead of fearing it, learn how to use it to your advantage. Good luck!