What are the Best Tips for Passing the Bar Exam?

In one word, the best tip for passing the bar exam is preparation. It begins the first day of law school and continues right up to test day. Experts on the bar exam say memorization approaches, perfecting essay writing techniques, and designing a study schedule all help an aspiring lawyer reach his or her goal. A positive attitude and healthy habits also contribute to success.

Short term memory lasts one to two weeks, so the final two weeks before the bar exam is the perfect time to memorize specifics in the law. Once those concepts are committed to memory, they can be applied to the essay and multiple choice sections of sample tests to increase the student's chance of passing the bar exam. An outline helps organize essay material while anticipating counter-arguments.

Many law school graduates enroll in law exam study courses to assist them in passing the bar exam. These courses are generally taught by law professors who have years of experience and knowledge about typical bar exam questions. Although these classes are expensive, if they lead to passing the bar exam, it allows a student to begin working as a lawyer immediately to recoup the cost. A private tutor is another option.

Preparation for the bar exam requires considerable time. Two months before the test date should be set aside for intensive study. Approximately half the people who take the bar exam fail on the first try. If work and family obligations can be put off for those two months, it can give the student time to devote to review.

Stress is a factor that can lead to failure of the bar exam. A few weeks leading up to the big test is not the time to ponder personal difficulties or try to break a bad habit. Exercise can be helpful to reduce stress and promote more restful sleep. Successful lawyers who have passed the bar exam suggest a positive attitude and relaxed frame of mind to ward off test anxiety.

It is best to arrive at the city where the test is administered the night before. A back up plan for transportation to the test site is recommended. Those who arrive late to take the test will not be allowed in, in most cases. If possible, a visit to the exam location can make the surroundings more familiar and less stressful.

The mind-body connection is important to passing the bar exam. Those who adhere to a healthy diet and lifestyle while preparing for the test can often increase their odds of being successful. Sugar and too much caffeine can fog the brain during study sessions and the actual test. Adequate rest and avoiding sick people can also help an aspiring attorney master the bar exam.