Slow Is Smooth, Smooth Is 170 (Ep. 503)

Thinking LSAT

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8d ago 1:18:31

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The secret to scoring a 170 on the LSAT? Don’t finish the section—just slow down and focus on accuracy. Ben and Nathan share an excerpt from their new book, The LSAT Is Easy, that breaks down what it takes to reach score milestones. They also unpack common admissions gimmicks, share tips from a departing demon, and host another round of the Personal Statement Gong Show.

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0:37 - The LSAT Is Easy

Ben and Nathan explain why the LSAT isn’t as difficult as it seems. Rushing through questions leads to repeated mistakes, not progress. They encourage slowing down, focusing on accuracy, and carefully solving each question. The episode also introduces their new, budget-friendly book. Improving your score starts with doing questions right, not doing more of them.

19:33 – Marketing gimmicks

Law schools use tactics like seat deposit deadlines and “priority waitlists” to pressure applicants into accepting full-price offers. Ben and Nathan explain how these strategies work, why they don’t reflect actual capacity, and how they help schools find eager, full-paying students. Their advice? Ignore the pressure. Focus on scholarships and long-term results.

40:50 – Why didn’t Ben enjoy his job in the justice department?

Ben recalls his time at the DOJ, where much of his work involved revising boilerplate from other lawyers. They also discuss clerkships—what they entail, how they differ, and why federal ones are more significant. For more on clerkships, check out Thinking LSAT Episode 418, Demystifying Federal Clerkships.

43:53 – You Don’t Need to Explain Every Wrong Answer.

Some students waste time trying to explain every wrong answer. Ben and Nathan suggest it’s more useful to understand the logic behind the correct ones and focus your review on the questions you missed. The point isn’t to memorize everything—it’s to build real understanding.

48:23 – Personal Statement Gong Show

Angel shares a personal statement for critique. Ben and Nathan emphasize that it needs to focus squarely on the applicant. Highlighting anything other than your skills wastes space that should be used to show why you will succeed in law school and the legal profession.

1:09:16 - Tips from a Departing Demon

Blake shares two pieces of advice: every word on the LSAT counts, and practice doesn’t make perfect—just better. Ben and Nathan agree with another student who reminds listeners not to take the test until they’re truly ready.

1:14:16 - Word of the Week - Concomitant

"Neurosurgery seemed to present the most challenging and direct confrontation with meaning, identity, and death. Concomitant with the enormous responsibilities they shouldered, neurosurgeons were also masters of many fields: Neurosurgery, ICU Medicine, neurology, radiology."

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