School of Law / Bar Exam Services / 10 Keys to Passing the Bar Exam  
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10 Keys to Passing the Bar Exam

  1. Begin preparing in advance. Learn about the bar exam and assess your strengths and weaknesses (i.e., during the semester and prior to graduation).
  2. Improve basic analytical skills. Did you learn and master these skills during law school? Analytical skills include:
    1. issue spotting,
    2. breaking rules into elements,
    3. using facts and providing arguments,
    4. using IRAC format.
  3. Improve your test taking techniques. Be able to modify your test taking skills that you learned in law school for the nuances of the bar exam (reading the question, organizing the answer, making choices, time management).
  4. Know your preferred learning styles. Determine what adjustments you will need to make with the bar review materials to maximize your learning and studying.
  5. Review or learn the substantive law. Note the areas tested on the bar exam and the depth to which each area is tested.
  6. Build your confidence. Believe in yourself and your chances of passing the bar. Never take the bar with the intent of taking it again or it will become a self-fulfilling prophecy.
  7. Stabilize your financial resources. The bar exam application and the cost of a bar preparation program may exceed $4,000. Despite the high cost of taking the bar exam, do not forego a bar review course. Also, do not plan on working during the bar review period.
  8. Anticipate and eliminate outside distractions. Prepare family, friends, and significant others for the bar review period. Let them know how important this exam is to you and how much preparation it requires.
  9. Monitor your energy and stress. Maintain perspective about the bar exam. Be sure to eat well, rest, exercise, and avoid burning out or getting ill.
  10. Avoid self-destructive behavior. Avoid making important decisions during the bar review period.
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