Using Notebook Paper during PrepTests Forum

[Übermensch]

Many people advise copying LSAT PrepTests and not writing in the books so that they can be reused later. Though retaking tests is probably not an accurate indicator of score change, I still see some benefit to reworking problems under timed circumstances. I have purchased a considerable amount of material, but since I don't have access to a free copier, making duplicates would cost a considerable amount of time and money. What are the disadvantages to using notebook paper when taking the PrepTests? I can think of three:

First, there is a limited amount of space on the PrepTests to work out problems. Notebook paper permits more space than I will actually be allotted on the real LSAT. To counter this, I can try to limit how much space I use.

Second, notebook paper is obviously not allowed during the LSAT, so I may develop a bad habit by using it during practice.

Third, it will probably take a bit longer to transfer answers from notebook paper to the answer sheet. Every second counts.

Should I just pay to get the materials copied, or will notebook paper be fine?

[Atlas LSAT Teacher]

I would never advise someone to copy copyrighted material , but I've heard of folks taking other books to a copy store, having it slice off the binding, then running a copy (which is a bulk copy job, so it should be cheaper), and then having the store hole punch both the copies and the original to put in binders. I would spring for the $20-$40 if I were you, as I agree with your assessment of why it's not ideal to use scrap paper.

Though you didn't mention it, someone else might be trying that, so I'll use this moment for a public service announcement: don't pursue the whole tracing paper thing -- you can lose an eye that way.

[EarlCat]

When you do timed tests, write in the book. If you're off the clock, there's no harm in using notebook paper.

And don't worry about retaking tests. Who cares if the score is inflated? You're doing it for practice, not prediction.

[RTFM]

I use notebook paper but I tape it over the empty space on the test and cut where necessary (which does not take as long as it sounds). One problem with this method is that I'm still doing local questions at the bottom of the page instead of right next to the question, but that hasn't slowed me down much.

[suspicious android]

this is why I think buying the preptests from cambridgelsat.com is the way to go, you can redo them as much as you want.

[allison34363]

Sounds like a good idea... maybe tracing paper would work best... put the tracing paper over each page of the preptest and then just take it off when you are done so you can sell or retake the tests.

[tomwatts]

I tell my students that they can use scratch paper instead of writing in our books if they want, provided that they give themselves the same amount of space as they have on the page. Even if it's just approximately the same, it makes little difference; you just want to practice writing small. And then you can always get a game like the last one in PT 56, in which you have almost no space at all.

[fiathebia]

I like this idea. I figure 1/4 page on a steno notepad should be perfect training size for Logic Games.

[eupelia]

this is why I think buying the preptests from cambridgelsat.com is the way to go, you can redo them as much as you want.

OH MY GOSH I looooved cambridgelsat. Not only did It take me like 4 mnutes to purchase and print pt 58 for like $4 but then I reprinted it again when I lost it. It's an awesome website and service.