Law School Exam Tips

I recently read an article which expressed some very good exam tips, by Professor Vernellia Randall at Depaul University. As such, I would like to share the highlights of this article with all of you.

It starts with memorization. Divide the number of pages of your outline by the days you have allotted to study that subject. This is the amount your need to cover each day.

It ends with application – practice the practice exams. Know yourself, study in the most optimal learning environment for you. Try Mozart.

Reduce your outline to a flowchart. Focus on the links between and among the items in your chart.

Research your professor – likes; dislikes.

During the Exam
Establish a Ritual Brain dump your flowchart [issue list] on the inside of the Bluebook. Write the word BECAUSE in bold letters on top of your exam booklet.

Read the exam three times – once for priority; twice for issues; third time for content.

List the issues next to each sentence of the fact pattern.

Check off the issues next to your flowchart once you identify them on the exam.

Highlight and answer only what is asked of you.

Do not psyche yourself out by looking for “trick” questions.

Organize your answer by person or action.

Write in IRAC.

Give up when time is up.