LSAT Score Increase Addendum

HLEGC.2003

Hey everyone! I am writing an addendum explaining my score increase (from a 167 in 2019 to a 173 this year). However, I am honestly not positive why my score increased, since my PT average remained the same in between tests - I just scored below my average the first time and scored right around my average on the second test. One reason I can think of is that I had a pretty bad headache during the first test, so that may have interfered with my concentration. Not sure whether this would be viewed as a good reason in an addendum, though. Any advice would be appreciated!

noonawoon

I don't think you should write an addendum at all - having multiple test scores with a higher second one is very common. If a school requires you to write an LSAT addendum, and you didn't change your study methods / can think of no other reason why your second score is higher, then I guess you can talk about the headache.

HLEGC.2003

Thanks. Yeah, good point. I'm going to try to avoid writing one. This would mainly be for Michigan, which asks for an explanation if there's a difference of six or more points.

HLEGC.2003

Follow up question for anyone who might know: UChicago says "Any large differences between LSAT scores, GRE scores, or GMAT scores should be explained in an addendum" Does anyone have an idea of whether a six point increase would qualify as a "large difference?"

dos_cool

I really don't think any school would think twice about your scores. They are really looking for large discrepancies. For instance, my first take was a 148, and I'm currently PTing in the mid 160's, so if October goes well I will hopefully have to write one! I don't think a 167-173 warrants an addendum. Good luck!

HLEGC.2003

That makes sense, thanks. Best of luck on your retake!

VerdantZephyr

I would second discouraging this addendum. Especially if you feel like you do not have a good reason. I will say that feeling ill and having a headache could well be a great reason but, as you said yourself, you don't think it explains things. I also feel that they are looking for people with more than a 6 point bump. Congrats on the score.