The LSAT is administered in two parts. The first part consists of several 35-minute sections of multiple-choice questions. The second part of the LSAT consists of a 35-minute, unscored LSAT Writing sample.
Beginning with the August 2021 LSAT, the test will include three scored sections and one unscored section so that we can validate new test questions for future use. This validation process is a vital part of our commitment to equity and helps us 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. The LSAT will retain this format for the next several years.
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 exam. 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. Copies of your writing sample are sent to all schools to which you apply.