Do they use the pre-cancelled scores to establish the curve? Forum

[JurisDoctorate]

?

[gdane]

What do you mean "precancelled scores"?

The curve is established before the test is given. At least thats what the masses say. So, nothing that happens on the test determines what the curve will be.

[JurisDoctorate]

Oh, I see. I thought it was established after the fact.

[Adjudicator]

Does anyone actually know when/how the curve is determined?

[YCrevolution]

..

[gdane]

From what Ive gathered, and I believe this is correct, the curve reflects the difficulty of the test. If a test is particularly difficult, LSAT will loosen the curve. It if is easier, LSAC will tighten it.

[gdane]

Does anyone actually know when/how the curve is determined?

LSAC has their own grading system for their questions. They put questions through a bunch of tests and use the results to figure out what questions are univerally easy or difficult. They then add the appropriate questions and adjust the curve as is necessary.

[YCrevolution]

..

[gdane]

From what Ive gathered, and I believe this is correct, the curve reflects the difficulty of the test. If a test is particularly difficult, LSAT will loosen the curve. It if is easier, LSAC will tighten it.

This is sort-of true. The curve is established so that X-percentile of test-takers get a certain score (or better), consistent from test to test. Ideally, a person who scores in the top 2% in one test will have the same score as a person who also scores in the top 2% in a later test.

Oh. Ok. That actually clears up a question I had.