How to Avoid LSAT Burnout

Studying for the LSAT is definitely hard work. It’s a challenging test that demands that you learn many new concepts. You’ll have to learn new vocabulary and remember that words like “some” don’t have the meaning you’ve been used to your whole life. The reading comprehension section passages will be full of ideas and words you might not be used to.

If you’re setting high goals, you might be putting significant pressure on yourself to study often. Hopefully you’re subscribed to and taking lessons through Magoosh’s online LSAT program and taking prep tests regularly. Unfortunately, there are points where you might start pushing yourself way too hard. Or, you may have been studying for so long that you’re starting to get tired of the LSAT. Here are some ways you can avoid LSAT burnout and stay fresh!

Symptoms of LSAT Burnout

Everyone has a few bad days once in a while. But you might start to notice that those bad days become almost every day! So what are some ways you can tell you’re starting to burn out?

• Mental and physical exhaustion

If you find yourself always out of energy, don’t assume it’s laziness or lack of willpower. Your body and mind may be telling you that they need rest and it’s time for a break. Studying for the LSAT requires a lot of brain power, and believe it or not, the brain uses “more energy than any other human organ, accounting for up to 20 percent of the body’s total haul.” So while you might be sitting and studying, you’re still using a considerable amount of energy.

• Loss of motivation

You can tell you’re losing motivation if you can barely remember why you’re doing this in the first place. Or, it takes a mountain of effort to convince yourself to get your materials together and study or take a practice test. A loss of motivation is a major sign of LSAT burnout.

• Consistent performance decline

This is the most tell-tale sign. If your practice test scores keep going down, or you can’t answer practice questions on Magoosh’s online LSAT program correctly, you have your proof of burnout.

Ways to Avoid LSAT Burnout

1. Follow a realistic study plan that you can reasonably accomplish.
2. Have realistic goals for your study periods. For example, don’t force yourself to take two practice exams in one night!
3. Study at appropriate times of the day when you’re most alert.
4. Exercise regularly.
5. Eat a balanced diet and avoid nutrient-deficient foods.
6. Try to sleep well every night and avoid screen-usage too close to bedtime.
7. Take regular breaks (for example, every 20 minutes) and avoid studying for an hour straight.
8. Make your breaks effective — get out of your seat, take a walk, rest your eyes by looking in the distance, or have a healthy snack.
9. Ask for help when you need it! Whether you’re struggling with a few questions or you need mental support, don’t be afraid to reach out.
10. Most importantly, try to post affirmations on your wall or desktop and keep physical reminders of your career/life goals. This way, if you ever lose motivation, you can turn to these and remind yourself why your hard work is worth it!

Hopefully, with these tips, you’ll be able to maintain your health and stay refreshed until LSAT test day!