Older Study Material + New LSATs= Low Scores Forum

[champv17]

Hey guys,

I've been studying with some older material (got from EBay and friends).
I have used the Bibles (couple editions old)
I have used the Manhattan books (2nd edition)
I have done over 20 PT's from 37- 59. 66, 67, 70.

I was planning go all the way to 71 and take it in September, but it didn't work out. So, I jumped from 59 to 65 and my score dropped substantially.
My scores from my recent PT's:
PT56- 169 PT57- 168 PT58- 175
PT59- 171 PT 66- 168 PT67- 166
PT70- 164

I really think I should push the exam to December.

I am wondering, are the exams that much different in the recent years, and should I purchase the most recent book to push my score to mid/upper 170's? ( I am looking at The LSAT Trainer)

[RZ5646]

That's a really small sample size so I don't think you can conclude that you're less prepared for new PTs. The drop isn't that large and could have been caused by tons of other factors besides the evolution of the test (which is noticeable but minor).

As far as I can tell, test companies release new editions just to sell more books.

[champv17]

The LG and RC are the same and I don't notice any difference. However, LR especially the stems are giving me problems. They seem different to me and have been troublesome in the the latter exams.

It could possibly be just some nervs because it is so close to the exam or burnout symptoms.

[WichitaShocker]

That's a really small sample size so I don't think you can conclude that you're less prepared for new PTs. The drop isn't that large and could have been caused by tons of other factors besides the evolution of the test (which is noticeable but minor).

As far as I can tell, test companies release new editions just to sell more books.

I agree, I don't think the 164 is that far out. A 5-6 point range on practice tests is normal. It looks as if the 175 was a bit of an outlier. I would not worry about it too much.

[Cradle6]

Just an FYI, PT 67 murdered me too.

That was had ridiculous RC passage and some rough LG.

Don't get too discouraged by it.