The LSAT® is administered in two parts. The first part consists of four 35-minute sections of multiple-choice questions. The second part of the LSAT consists of an unscored writing sample.
Multiple-Choice LSAT Questions
The multiple-choice portion of the LSAT includes three scored sections and one unscored section, which enables us to validate new test questions for future use. This validation process is a vital part of our commitment to equity and helps ensure that our questions continue their long standard of being free from any kind of bias. The unscored section can be any one of the question types — Reading Comprehension, Analytical Reasoning, or Logical Reasoning — and can occur at any point in the test. Starting with the August 2023 LSAT, most test takers can choose whether to take the multiple-choice LSAT in person or remotely — whichever option works best for them.
Starting with the August 2024 LSAT, the multiple-choice portion of the test will consist of two scored Logical Reasoning sections and one scored Reading Comprehension section, plus one unscored section of either Logical Reasoning or Reading Comprehension.
For the remaining tests in the current 2023-2024 testing cycle, up to and including the June 2024 test, the multiple-choice portion of the test will continue to include one Logical Reasoning section, one Reading Comprehension section, and one Analytical Reasoning section, plus one unscored section that could be any of the three section types.
Reading Comprehension Section
Reading Comprehension questions measure your ability to read and understand examples of long-form, complex materials that are similar to those that you’ll encounter in law school.
Learn more about LSAT Reading Comprehension
Logical Reasoning Section
Logical Reasoning questions assess your ability to analyze, critically evaluate, and complete arguments.
Learn more about the LSAT Logical Reasoning
Analytical Reasoning Section
Analytical Reasoning questions measure your ability to understand a structure of relationships and draw conclusions about that structure.
Please note: If you're taking the LSAT after June 2024, the test will no longer include an Analytical Reasoning section.
LSAT Writing®
Starting July 31, 2024, LSAT Argumentative WritingSM will replace the current LSAT Writing task. LSAT Argumentative Writing will continue to be an unscored part of the LSAT, but the time will be extended from 35 to 50 minutes.
LSAT Writing is separately administered online using secure proctoring software that you can install on your own computer. You can take LSAT Writing at your convenience, as early as eight (8) days prior to the date of your multiple-choice test. LSAT Writing will continue to be administered remotely for all test takers. Your LSAT Writing prompt will present a decision problem, and you will be asked to choose between two positions or courses of action and defend your choice. There are no “right” or “wrong” positions; the writing sample is designed to let you demonstrate your persuasive writing skills. Law schools will examine the reasoning, clarity, organization, language usage, and writing mechanics you display in your sample. LSAC will include up to your three (3) most recent LSAT Writing samples in your law school report(s).