Understand the format of the Logical Reasoning section. There are two scored logical reasoning sections on the LSAT, each of which consists of 24-26 multiple choice questions that you must answer in 35 minutes. Most questions consist of a brief passage, or argument, followed by a series of five possible answers.
Read the questions carefully and make sure you fully understand what a question is asking before choosing an answer. You must base your answers solely on the information provided within the given arguments. You cannot rely on knowledge of formal reasoning alone.
Learn to recognize assumptions gaps. An assumption gap is characterized by logical leaps that lead to false conclusions. Although presented in a variety of forms, the most logical reasoning questions require recognition and analysis of arguments that contain logical holes. Examples of such questions ask test takers to identify an argument's primary assumption, to find an error in an argument's reasoning, to choose which answer strengthens a given argument and to recognize an assumption's logical conclusion.
Understand parallel reasoning. To answer parallel reasoning questions, you must choose which from a series of arguments most closely represents the given argument in terms of logic. An excellent preparation technique is to practice paraphrasing arguments or breaking them down in terms of assumptions, evidence, logic and conclusions. On the LSAT, you should paraphrase each given argument before answering parallel reasoning questions, as many arguments are similar and most questions ask you to choose the answer that most closely resembles the given argument.
Develop the ability to draw logical conclusions. Some logical reasoning questions ask you to identify which answer most closely represents the given argument's primary conclusion. Success on such questions often requires making inferences, another important skill to develop before taking the LSAT. One can draw conclusions from an argument by identifying assumptions and their evidentiary support and through the process of deduction.
Take a practice test. Before developing a study plan, take a practice exam under simulated test conditions. To study effectively, you must identify your strengths and weaknesses. To ace the LSAT, you'll need to do well on all sections, but keep in mind when studying that the logical reasoning section comprises half of the scored questions.
Enroll in an LSAT prep course. Those who take a prep course and complete all associated assignments usually see significant score increases. If scheduling conflicts prevent enrollment in a traditional course, take a self-paced online LSAT course or work with a private tutor.