Why do my Prep Test scores keep getting worse?

meganmueller98

Taking LSAT in January - really trying to break 170. I was pretty consistent in the upper 160s range, peaked at 169 for a couple tests, then decline decline decline. My most recent Prep Test was a 160 - worst I've gotten. I'm reviewing my wrong answers/reviewing content related to the types of questions I get wrong. I'm running Drills. I feel like I should be doing better but they keep getting worse. Any ideas?

egetahun

Honestly, I'd advise that you take a break or lessen the intensity of your studying. I know it sounds counterproductive, but it helps. That's the advice I received, and it worked. Seeing my scores decline was discouraging and made me more anxious to improve. It increased my pressure to perform--making me do worse. It was demoralizing. I was fed up and decided only to review my notes and strategies, and do short focused drills for much less time than I'd been doing. I reviewed old lessons just to keep the fundamentals fresh in my mind. I did this for about 2 weeks before taking the actual LSAT because I didn't want to be fried mentally when taking the test. I scored 8 points higher on the actual LSAT than on my last practice test. Your brain probably needs a little respite to break the plateau. I also think changing your studying environment can help. I always studied at the desk in my room since that's where I'd be taking the exam (which can be helpful), but changing it up sometimes by going to different coffee shops, a university, a library, etc. helped break the monotony and enhance my motivation, energy, and overall productivity. Praying for you! You've got this!

natemanwell1

the tests tend to come in batches where 5 in a row tend to be similar so you probably improved by getting used to the specifics of several test in a row without fully learning all the concepts