Category: Test Prep

Trying to how to study for the new SAT at home and F.A.S.T. –  like in a week or a month?  For students planning to attend college, there may be nothing more important than successful SAT results – at least right this moment in time! The big question that still remains is exactly how to study for the SAT.

There is nothing wrong with wanting perfection, and perfect SAT results are possible for some. With a little time and effort, there is no reason to achieve anything less than your absolute best. Creating effective study habits is no simple task, and time must be spent in order to gain the academic success you deserve, but the good news is that it can be done. There is a plethora of information out there that offers statistics, advice and preparation tactics.

Read on to find out options that you can use starting now.

How to Prepare for the SAT Exam at Home

Like most major exams, timing is crucial. Last minute cramming is certainly not the ideal way to go, but sometimes that’s the only option that you have! In order to achieve your best results, you must start as early as possible. In saying that, if you have left it a little late, there are several steps you can take to reach your SAT goals in a much shorter time frame. If you are time-poor, this article will outline ways you can study for the SAT in a month, or even a week!

How is the SAT Scored

Learning the scoring system for the SAT will not automatically mean you score highly – there is no way to ‘play the system’, so to speak. However, having an idea of how the process works can help prepare you. In each section of the SAT, you will receive a raw score. This is simply the number of questions you answered correctly, much like many other tests you take. Although, unlike many other tests, you will not lose marks for any missed or incorrect answers.

The process gets a little more complicated as the SAT compares students who take different tests. The College Board equates the scores based on the difficulty of the test to ensure fair comparisons can be made. For example, a March Math test may be deemed more difficult than the May Math test, therefore a lower raw score in March will be equal to a higher one in May.  Confused yet?

The new SAT, delivers a maximum equated Math score of 800, and a combined Reading and Writing score of 600.

While this may still sound a little complicated, the bottom line is very straightforward – achieve the highest raw score possible. In other words, answer as many questions correctly as you can! Let’s look at ways you can do that.

SAT Reading Tips

Even if you are a math genius and can expect your exceptional math abilities to carry you to a high SAT total, many colleges will still require a strong reading score. Also, increasing your SAT reading score will obviously help boost your total, opening more doors and increasing your chances of acceptance into more colleges.

For those who are more math-brained, it’s going to be a relief to know that success in the Reading section can easily be achieved even if you don’t consider yourself a strong reader.

Here are some useful, and achievable strategies to boost your reading score.

• Pay attention to time – one of the most common problems with most tests is running out of time. The questions in the reading section are not ordered according to skill level. In other words, the simplest question may be at the end and it would be silly to spend the bulk of your time on a difficult question earlier on in the test. Skim read the passage and then move on to the questions. Refer back to the passage after each question, focus on the part of the passage that is relevant to the question. You do not need to understand the entire passage in extensive detail, so don’t waste your time doing so. Finally, set yourself a time limit to answer each question. If you haven’t answered in this time, move on, allowing yourself the opportunity to answer more questions. You can always come back to the question at the end if you have time.
• Look for wrong answers – this may seem counterintuitive, but eliminating the answers that you know are wrong is often far easier than trying to identify the only correct one (remember, there is only one correct answer). Look for answer options that are too specific or too broad, or answers that sound plausible but are irrelevant or have a reversed relationship. Even if you can only eliminate two answers, you are then guessing between two options instead of four, which greatly increases your chances of choosing correctly.
• Use official SAT practice papers – reading any old passages and answering the questions may sound like a good idea, after all, you have been told to practice, practice, practice! But if you do not practice using SAT-style passages, you will never understand the type of questions and therefore be unable to develop appropriate and effective strategies.

SAT Math Tips

By boosting your SAT math score, you will boost your overall, combined score. This may seem rather obvious, but think of it in terms of increasing the number colleges you could potentially be accepted into. Whether math is your strong point or an area of weakness, try these tips to improve your score.

• Understand your weaknesses – you probably have a fair idea of the areas that need improving, so focus on these. You may be fine with the knowledge of the content, but struggle with the time pressure. Either way, completing practice paper after practice paper will help you. Either focus on your weaker topics to improve your knowledge, or simply practice completing the questions at a faster rate (whilst maintaining accuracy) to ensure you will have enough time to answer all
• Learn from your mistakes – work hard to figure out where you go wrong. Be specific and thorough. It’s no good just reading through the explanations, you must learn exactly where you went wrong – it’s the only way to ensure that you are as prepared as possible come test day.

SAT Writing Tips

The writing section of the SAT can be strenuous and stressful. Time limitations often mean students don’t answer all questions, or make silly mistakes in the ones they do. Alleviating the stress and achieving positive results can be done simultaneously if you follow these simple SAT writing strategies:

• Learn the grammar rules – there’s no way around this one. Learn them. Write them down, read them aloud, have somebody test you. Use the most effective learning strategy for you to ensure these rules stay embedded in your brain because you will need them.
• Understand rhetoric question types – find effective ways to construct sentences and passages. The best way to do this is, like every other section, is to practice. SAT questions are unique and take some getting used to, so find as many official practice papers as you can and complete them.
• Be wary of ‘no change’ answers – in the SAT writing section, one of your answer options is likely to be ‘no change’. Of course, there are times when the sentence structure and grammar are spot on. However, if you find yourself choosing this answer option the majority of the time, chances are you just don’t know enough grammar rules. Take this as a hint to go back and learn the grammar rules and become more familiar with appropriate sentence structure.

Develop Effective Study Habits

You’ve heard the story before – someone spends hours and hours studying and achieves poor results. While this disappointing, it’s not surprising. Studying isn’t always about the hours you put in, it’s about how you spend those hours.

Let’s face it, students are busy people and time isn’t something they have a lot of, so it’s important to use it wisely. Learn your areas of weakness, in all sections of the SAT, and work to improve those. Spend a small amount of time each study session using the skills you are competent at so you don’t lose them completely, but focus on those you have most difficulty with. Completing as many practice papers as possible will help you identify these areas.

The key to the success lies in three simple areas:

• Learn the types of questions asked in the SAT,
• Use your existing skills to develop strategies to answer the questions, and
• Practice!

How to Study for the SAT in a Week to a Month – What to do when you are running out of time!

If you are concerned that you have left your SAT preparation too late, don’t worry. Actually, you don’t really need to do anything different than the strategies already mentioned. You simply need to make adjustments. For example, you may not have time to amend all your weaknesses, so focus on the biggest weaknesses that know you can fix in your limited time.

There are a few things you can still do to optimize your results. Put everything that you can aside for this brief time period and FOCUS on your prep work!  Enlist some support and some help from family, teachers and tutors that know how to study as well as the areas that you are weak.

Study hard for shorter time periods while taking study breaks to enable you to stay focused and alert enough to cram all that you need to.  Healthy eating and sleep are also going to be critical during this time period.  And no matter what – just remember, it’s one test.  One piece of the overall package that schools look at.

The SATs have caused issues and angst for students for decades now.  As a part of your application process there is nothing you can do to avoid the test, barring simply not applying to any schools that require the exam.  And while it’s certainly possible, the schools you are interested in might not be one of those schools.  So – look at the time you have available between now and the exam, no matter how little it might be, and create a plan, execute and work towards getting the best results you can on the test!  And don’t forget, let us know how it all turns out for you.

We’ve created our best GRE prep guide to help you easily prepare for your upcoming exam!  The GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is the key exam that is required to gain entrance to many graduate programs and some business schools.

A successful test prep and solid score will open up schools as well as financial opportunities that you haven’t explored yet. Whatever the reason for taking the exam, success in this standardized test is crucial. So how to you prepare and study for this unique examination? This guide will help you understand what is involved in the GRE and how you can best prepare yourself to do well on the GRE to achieve the results you deserve.

GRE General Test vs GRE Subject Test

The GRE General Test features questions that are relevant and useful to the courses you will be taking at graduate or some business schools. The General Test is all you need to gain entry to your desired institution, however, if you are planning on majoring in a specific subject area, then the GRE Subject Test will help set you apart from your competitors. If you have an undergraduate major or extensive background knowledge in any of the following areas, the GRE Subject Test may be an additional test that you want to consider;

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Literature in English
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Psychology

Our review guide will look at the GRE General Test, but it is worth considering taking the Subject Test as an extra test option if you feel it will broaden your opportunities that you hadn’t thought of before now.

Best GRE Prep – What is the GRE General Test?

There are three sections in the GRE General test;

• Analytical writing
• Quantitative reasoning
• Verbal reasoning

The test can be taken on a computer or on paper, though it’s moving quickly to only being able to be done online. In this test you have the opportunity to skip questions that you don’t feel comfortable with, as well as the opportunity to go back and change your answers. If success doesn’t come the first time around, you may re-sit the test. This may sound appealing (and make you think you don’t really need to prepare for it), but the cost for the test must be paid with each attempt so figure out whether or not you want to put in a bit of time to get the results.

GRE Test Sections: What’s Included

Analytical Writing – this section requires focused responses that articulate complex ideas that are supported with relevant reasons and examples. You must examine claims and evidence, and discuss with well written English.

Quantitative Reasoning – this section examines your ability to understand, interpret and analyze quantitative information. You will use mathematical models to solve problems and your basic skills of arithmetic, algebra, geometry and data analysis will be tested. You are allowed to use a calculator when completing this section.

Verbal Reasoning – here you will analyze and draw conclusions, identify the author’s assumptions and/or perspectives, and understand the author’s intent in a literal and figurative manner. You will be tested on your ability to summarize text, selecting the key points from the text as well as understanding the structure of the text. Your understanding of the meanings of words and sentences will be tested, as will your ability to recognize relationships between words and concepts.

 

How to Prepare and Study for the GRE

The skills required to succeed in the test are developed over a period of time and not related to any particular field of study. For this reason, preparation is crucial to success. Unlike many other examinations, where content can be revised and learned, the GRE measures your ability to respond to the information given. By gaining an understanding of the types of questions asked in the test, you will be able to develop the skills to answer the questions accurately and confidently. The following five points are easy ways to prepare and study for the GRE to ensure your greatest success.

1. Best GRE Prep Means Spend the Time Preparing
   

Like many other examinations, last minute studying is not useful. The more time you spend preparing for the GRE, the better your results will be. It is recommended that you spend 4-12 weeks developing your skills for the test. Naturally, spending more time will result in the best outcome possible.

2. Create a Study Plan or Schedule

While success in the GRE should be your priority, the fact is that life often gets in the way. Job commitments, exercise, social engagements, and relationships must also take place. In order to spend the necessary time preparing for the GRE, you need to make sure you allocate enough time. Take a look at your week and designate certain times to study, as well as what you will study in each session. Be prepared to make some sacrifices, but remember that it will only be for a short while. Your study schedule needs to be realistic, specific, achievable, and flexible. Use an old fashioned, pen and paper diary or calendar, or schedule study sessions into your phone.

3. Study Sample Questions

There is no point spending hours and hours preparing for the GRE if you aren’t preparing effectively. It can be easy to get carried away reviewing content that is not relevant to the examinations. The most valuable method of studying is to focus on practice and sample questions. These give you an excellent understanding of the type of questions that will be asked. Sample questions are easy to find, as are explanations for the correct answers to help ensure you are practicing correctly.  There’s online sources, review books to name just a couple!  Also, don’t forget to try timed sample questions. This helps simulate the time pressure of being in the actual exam.

4. Personalize Your Program

By understanding your own strengths and weaknesses you will be able to create a study and test prep plan that meets your specific needs. Take a sample full test and see where you are weakest and work to build up those areas. Definitely spend more time on the areas you find difficult, or on the subject areas that are most relevant to your educational goals.

4. GRE Prep Books – Additional Resources That Work
   

After you understand what you need to know and how the test is laid out, it’s time to find the right study material. GRE exams are quite common in the US, and you can find prep books in any library or bookshop, all you need to do is start the hunt and find the best ones. Check the official site and see what they recommend. Ask your local librarian if he or she has any other manuals to help you out and take them too. It’s important you find the right sources for studying with up to date information and correct answers.  We’ve collected a list of some of our favorites, Check Them Out HERE

 

5. Find a GRE Tutor Near You
   

Enlisting the help of a professional tutor will help you remain motivated and on the right track to success. They are able to provide valuable feedback and you can really fine tune your skills in the one-on-one environment, whether it’s an online tutor or in home tutor option. A good local GRE tutor  or GRE tutor online will be able to assist with your study schedule, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and respond accordingly.

Finding a good tutor can be difficult. They need to not only have the knowledge and skills to teach you, but also understand your goals. A personality match is also crucial – feeling comfortable around your tutor will ensure you ask plenty of questions and are honest about your understanding of key concepts. Check out the following link to find highly qualified GRE tutors in your area: http://www.PrivateTutoringAtHome.com/GRE/

Overall, sitting for the GRE  does not need to become a stressful event for you if you prepare correctly. Understanding how the test works, what are the different types of questions asked, and then implementing some valuable study tips will help you to achieve the results you need to take your education to the next level. Using the best GRE prep tools and taking the time that’s needed is all that you have to do. Good luck and let us know how it turns out for you!

Anyone wishing to practice law must first figure out how to pass the bar exam: it’s one of those unfortunate requirements that must be hurdled before your career begins. It is intense, extensive process figuring out how to pass the bar and requires a great deal of preparation to guarantee success. Using a bar exam tutor is one way to insure you arrive ready to start the exam,  filled with confidence and the knowledge required to pass the test successfully. This article aims to help you understand what is covered in the bar exam, what are generally the most difficult areas for many, and how much time and effort is required to pass the first time around.

How to Pass the Bar Exam: What You Need to Know

The bar exam is a test to ensure applicants are competent to practice law. While the exam will vary between states, there are some common aspects.  One of them is the length of time the test generally takes.  The bar exam is scheduled over two days. One day is devoted to the Multistate Bar Examination (MBE) which includes 200 standardized items covering seven areas. These areas include:

• Civil Procedures
• Constitutional Law
• Contracts
• Criminal Law and Procedure
• Evidence
• Real Property
• Torts

The second day covers a broader range of topics, but it is common for two nationally developed tests to be used. These are the Multistate Essay Examination (MEE) and the Multistate Performance Test (MPT). The MEE is ‘state specific’ and is in essay format, often comprising of around six questions. The MPT examines the applicant’s ability to use fundamental lawyer skills. It evaluates the candidates ability to complete a task that is suitable for a beginner lawyer. The MPT is not required in every state.

Bar Exam applicants may also be required to undergo a background and character check.

The Hardest Part of the Bar Exam

Due to the fact that we all have different talents and intellect, the hardest part of the Bar Exam will vary greatly between people. At first glance, you may think that multiple choice questions will be the easiest because, after all, the answer is there in front of you. While this is technically true, many people may find these type of questions harder. This is usually because there is more than one right answer. You may be wondering how that can be, but your job is to find the most correct answer in a collection of answers that might, possibly, could be accurate as well. This is to separate the candidates who really know their stuff. It is also quite difficult to remain focused for the two, three-hour multiple choice sessions.  Your brain and you will be tired after slogging through this portion of the test!

Essay questions will prove problematic to those who struggle to compose their thoughts into the written language. Even the most confident of essay writers will feel the constraints of time and pressure.  The key here is to have cogent thoughts covering all areas that you might need to address, and do it within the time allotted.  Practicing and preparing for this section is critical!

In order to pass the Bar Exam successfully, it is best to understand your strengths and weaknesses and prepare accordingly.  It’s also very important that you get support in your prepping as well as give yourself plenty of time to review literally everything that you covered in the past three year.

How Much Preparation is Required?

Passing the Bar Exam requires far more than some last minute cramming and natural brains. The average law student will need to spend around 400 hours to pass the exam successfully. Of course this number is a guide only, but it certainly gives a good indication of the time required. If you are a full time student, this means you will need to start studying at least nine weeks before the Bar Exam. If you have other commitments you should start much sooner. Equally, the more time you spend preparing, the greater the chance of first time success. The majority if your preparation should be on learning the subject content and completing practice examination questions. The last few weeks before the exam, focus should be on reviewing the law and taking timed practice exams.

In summary, spend as much time as possible effectively studying – treating it like a full time job and your number one priority. Using a private bar exam tutor will ensure your study time is spent wisely. While it isn’t feasible to use a tutor for every study session, regularly meeting with one will help keep you on track and answer any questions you have. They may even be helpful at providing feedback on your practice examinations since they’ve “been there, done that” and passed.

Bar Exam Success Rates

The percentage of students that pass the Bar Exam varies greatly between states. Nebraska and Missouri have the highest pass rates for first attempts, while California and Nevada have the lowest. The pass rate for first time applicants will help give you an indication of how much preparation you will need to undertake. However, it is unclear whether the pass rates are indicative of how hard the test is, or how intelligent and prepared the applicants ares for the exam….or both. Either way, you should spend as much time as possible preparing as possible so that you pass the first time around.

Which States are the Most Difficult?

How difficult students find their respective test varies between every state and while opinions exist over which state is the most difficult, there are some generalizations and information that provides a fairly conclusive top five list for those states that are the most difficult to pass for test takers.

1. California – notoriously difficult, the Californian Bar Exam has the lowest first time pass rate. It used to be a three day exam involving multiple choice and essay questions. While the format has changed slightly and the time has been reduce to two days, it is still no walk in the park.  This is definitely a state  where getting help from a California bar exam private tutor is a good way to ensure your preparation will result in success.
2. Arkansas – the difficulty of the Arkansas Bar Exam may have something to do with the local and state laws.
3. Washington – Seattle is one of the most moved-to cities in the country, attracting many new potential Bar Exam takers. The two day test is vigorous and challenging.
4. Louisiana – the bar exam in Louisiana is entirely different from anywhere else in the country. To practice law in Louisiana you must have attended law school in the state to learn the unique legal system. In addition, the difficulty of the exam may also be related to the fact that the content is vastly different to every other state.
5. Nevada – the Nevada bar exam takes 2 ½ days and has one of the highest passing score requirements. The number of first time applicants that pass the Nevada Bar Exam is pretty low when compared to other states. These factors combined with the fact that Nevada has some pretty unique laws, makes it one tricky exam to pass.

So there you have it, the bar exam in a nutshell. While it is rigorous and time consuming, plenty of people attempt (and pass) each year.  If you put in the time and effort plus get support from classmates or tutors, you can have a successful result.

As we have mentioned, some states are more of a challenge for bar exam students.  Here are a few of the states that have ranked highest in difficult,

California

The California bar exam is the most difficult in the country. Only 60% of candidates passed the exam on the first attempt in 2016. The three day exam previously consisted of six essay questions, 200 multiple choice questions and two performance tests. As of 2017, the exam only takes two days and comprises of five essay questions, one performance test and 200 multiple choice questions. There are 17 subject areas that are covered, and the essay questions could be on any of these 17 areas. If you are an out-of-state applicant, the good news is that California-specific legal knowledge is only required for five of the subjects – federal laws apply to the other sections. Despite this fact, familiarizing yourself with the nuances of California law is incredibly beneficial as the approach to the California bar exam is different to other states. Complete several practice papers to understand the technicalities and marking criteria. This is particularly necessary when sitting the performance test section. While you do not have to regurgitate information, you will need to apply detailed law to show that you have the skills and competence to practice within the state.

Using a private tutor for the bar exam is the bet way to maximize your chances of success. California law is unique, as are the style of questions and marking used on the bar exam. A California bar tutor will have experience in these areas and be on hand to answer any questions you have as well providing unique hints and tips to ensure success. One of the biggest stumbling blocks for this state’s applicants is the ability to write in the correct format. A tutor can help you, so can a California bar coach. Think of it this way, you wouldn’t attempt a marathon without months of training and professional guidance, so why should you attempt the bar exam alone? Enlisting professional help and allowing yourself plenty of preparation time is one of the most beneficial things you can do to ensure a relatively stress-free and successful and passing score result.

Florida

With only 66% of first time applicants passing the Florida bar exam, using a Florida bar exam tutor is crucial to your success. The Florida Exam is divided into three sections. Part A and Part B make up the General Bar Examination (GBE). Part A comprises of three hours spent answering essay style questions and three hours completing 100 multiple choice questions. Both General and Florida law are tested in this section. Part B is the Multistate Bar Examination (MBE). The final section is the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE). In order to sit the General Bar Examination, applicants must have graduated from an accredited law school. The MPRE can be attempted prior to law school graduation.

The examination procedure in Florida allows candidates to select from two methods of testing. These methods are:

• The Overall Method – only applicants who submit both Parts A and B during the same administration can use this method. To pass using this method requires an average score of 136 or higher.
• The Individual Method – applicants who have previously passed part of the exam and wish to retake the part of the exam they failed may use this method. Candidates must achieve a passing score on each of the sections in order to pass the Bar Exam overall.

Statisticians indicate that applicants who opt for the Overall Method may find passing easier. This is probably due to the fact that only one pass score is required as opposed to having to pass each section.

Like most of the exams, it is highly advised to spend a lot of time preparing by learning both federal and Florida law, and by completing as many practice papers as possible. Using a private bar exam tutor will help guide you through these questions. They can offer constructive feedback to ensure you are as prepared as possible come examination day. It is also recommended to make the most of the bar study guide that has been developed by the Florida Board of Bar Examiners, it can be downloaded for free here.

Finally, all applicants to the Florida Bar Exam must be able to provide evidence of good moral character. Further information can be found on the Florida Board of Bar Examiners website.

Virginia

The Virginia Bar Exam is passed by 75% of first time applicants which may be an indication that it is a little easier than some other states. This doesn’t mean that you can sit back, relax and pass the exam with minimal study or preparation. Like many other bar exams, the Virginia bar exam takes place over two days. The first day comprises of a taxing 20 short answer questions and nine essay questions. Day two is the Multistate Bar Exam (MBE), which is 200 multiple choice questions. The MBE score is weighted at 40% and the essay section equates to 60%. The sections are combined to provide an overall score. The Virginia bar essay topics may include:

• Agency
• Conflict of Law
• Constitutional Law
• Contracts
• Business Organizations
• Creditors Rights
• Criminal Law
• Domestic Relations
• Equity
• Evidence
• Federal Practice and Procedure
• Local Government Law
• Professional Conduct
• Real and Personal Property
• Sales
• Suretyship
• Taxation
• Torts
• Trusts
• Uniform Commercial Code
• Virginia Civil and Criminal Procedure
• Wills and Estate Administration

As you can see, the vast number of possible essay subjects makes studying for the Virginian bar exam incredibly difficult. There is a lot of content to get your head around and become familiar with, so getting help or working in a group is an excellent way to help you achieve a pass result the first time around. Using a tutor allows you to receive constructive feedback, especially when completing practice questions. However, a tutor can sometimes be costly and not accessible by everyone. If that is the case, it is possible to self study for the Virginia test.

Self study requires a fair amount of dedication, but there are a few useful tips you can follow to give yourself the best chance at success. These include:

• Start early – this doesn’t mean well in advance of the bar exam (although that is essential), it means early in the morning. If you are not a morning person, it might be time to start. The test starts early in the morning so it’s a good idea to train your brain to start thinking in the morning. Starting early also ensures you get enough study done each day.
• Start with an essay – essay questions are renowned for being the hardest so it’s always a good idea to to get the hardest study over and done with first, rather than procrastinating.
• Use Virginia bar exam study materials – these can be found online and include study guides and practice questions.
• Allow for some rest time – while studying for the bar exam should be considered a full time job, your brain will function better if you allow yourself some down time. Watch a movie, go for a walk or hang out with friends.

A combination of productive self study and a Virginia bar exam prep help will give you the best chance at stress-free success.

District of Columbia

The first time pass rate for bar exam applicants in the District of Columbia is 74%, making it seemingly a little easier than quite a few other states. The exam is held over two days, each day is explained in more detail below:

Day 1 – the written part of the DC Bar Exam takes place on the first day. This includes the Multistate Performance Test (MPT) which has two questions and a three hour time allowance. The Multistate Essay Exam (MEE) also takes place on day one and involves six questions over three hours. The essay questions can come from any of the following subjects;

• Business Associations
• Conflict of Laws
• Family Law
• Federal Civil Procedure
• Trusts, Wills, and Estates
• Uniform Commercial Code
• All MBE Subjects

Day 2 – applicants will sit the Multistate Bar Exam (MBE) on the second day of the DC Bar Exam. It is split into two sections, each administered over three hours and consisting of 100 multiple choice questions.

The weighting of each section is: MPT 20%, MEE 30%, and MBE 50%.

Like other states, each section is vastly different so knowing how to prepare and study effectively is key to passing the DC Bar Exam. Here is some sound advice for each section:

Multistate Bar Exam – firstly you must understand the material, then memorize the material, and finally practice applying the material. Spend plenty of time answering practice questions in timed conditions.

Multistate Essay Exam – practice writing several essays each week. Make sure you understand the material, using a tutor can help you with this. Once you are confident that you know what you are writing about, time yourself writing your answers to stimulate exam conditions.

Multistate Performance Test – whilst you may not need to learn specific content for the MPT, spending time practicing the style of questions will ensure you approach this section confidently.

Options that are easily available are some of the group or courses that exist as well as private bar tutors. Self study and group sessions are great ways to prepare for the DC bar exam, but using a private tutor will ensure any troubles you have are eliminated. They can tailor lessons to suit your exact needs and provide valuable one-on-one teaching that you just can’t get from group lectures plus they’ve already passed the exam which helps in knowing any tricks that you might encounter during the test days.

 

Pennsylvania

Three quarters of first time candidates pass the Pennsylvania Bar Exam, a statistic that should fill future applicants with a little confidence.

There are six essay questions, and at first thought that may sound simple. The tricky part is that any one of 15 subjects can be tested using these essay questions. In preparation for the exam make sure that you learn the content in each and every one of the 15 subjects throughly. The next step is to spend a large amount of time completing practice essay questions. Finally, essay questions should be practiced under timed conditions to stimulate real exam pressures.

Applicants will also be asked to complete a performance test. The purpose of this test is to ensure that candidates are able to perform basic legal tasks. The test involves being given a file and various documents with the aim to formulate an answer to the task. While you do not need to learn and memorize specific content, there is some skill in achieving successful results in this section. Like many other sections, practicing questions in crucial. This way you will gain an understanding of the style of questions asked and the best way to formulate your answers.

As with other states, the Multistate Bar Exam (MBE) comprises of 200 multiple choice questions testing the seven standardized areas. Learning, understanding and memorizing content is the key to success in this part of the exam. Keeping a clear head when answering all 200 questions in a given time frame is no easy task, so practice is crucial. Allocate plenty of time to prepare for this section and do so in timed conditions to stimulate exam conditions.

As you can see, the most successful way to achieve passing bar exam results is to practice, practice, practice.  Using any of several studying and practice options on your own, in a course or with a tutor will be critical to getting a successful result on your bar this year!

Illinois

Illinois has one of the highest first time pass rates for the bar exam with 78% of candidates competing the examination successfully. Definitely one of the states that has a high pass rate, you don’t want to get too complacent. The exam takes place over an intense two day period and is comprised of four components.

• The Illinois Essay Exam (IEE) – candidates will need to answer three 30-minute essays on Illinois Law.
• The Multistate Performance Test (MPT) – a 90 minute test that examines candidates’ ability to use basic lawyering skills. They must separate relevant from irrelevant and communicate legal concepts effectively.
• The Multistate Essay Exam (MEE) – six 30-minute essays must be answered and provide evidence that candidates can understand universal law concepts.
• The Multistate Bar Exam (MBE) – like most other states, candidates will have to answer 200 multiple choice questions over two, three-hour periods. Candidates are tested on their knowledge of fundamental legal principles. They will analyze fact situations and choose the correct answer from the four options available.

Out of state applicants can use their MBE score from their own jurisdiction if their score is over 141 and transferred within 13 months of sitting their exam. These applicants must still sit, and pass, the other sections of the Illinois bar exam.

Both local and out of state applicants should enlist the help of an Illinois bar exam tutor to ensure that they are learning the correct content and material. A knowledgeable tutor will also be able to provide Illinois-specific information and ease concerns regarding difficult topics. They will provide feedback on practice papers, which is the best form of preparation you can do. Practice essay questions can be found here and it is recommended that applicants complete these questions under timed conditions to stimulate exam conditions.

Organization is key when it comes to the Illinois bar exam. Not only will you be better prepared and confident in your ability to succeed if you spend more time studying, but you will also save yourself money. Also, don’t forget!  The sooner you apply to sit the Illinois bar exam, the cheaper the application fee.

Overall, begin preparing the for the exam early and practice, practice, practice!

Arizona

Applicants wishing to pass the Arizona Bar Exam on the first attempt may not be filled with confidence upon hearing that the pass rate is only 63%. This places it among the lowest passing states. Don’t let this fact put you off, however. Good preparation will ensure you give yourself the best shot at passing the first time around. Familiarize yourself with the Arizona bar exam and allow plenty of time to learn, revise and practice each of the sections.

• Multistate Bar Exam (MBE) – 200 hundred multiple choice questions are administered over two, three-hour periods testing knowledge of each of the seven standardized bar areas.
• Multistate Essay Exam (MEE) – unlike many other states, there are nine questions available in this section. However, most jurisdictions only choose six (like other states) to test the applicants. Each question or essay is allocated 30 minutes to complete. The essay question can come from the following subjects;
• Business Associations
• Conflict of Laws
• Family Law
• Federal Civil Procedure
• Trusts, Wills and Estates
• Uniform Commercial Code
• All MBE Subjects
• The Multistate Performance Test (MPT) – two 90 minute questions are administered and cover areas such as legal analysis, fact analysis, problem solving, resolution of ethical dilemmas, organization and management of a lawyering task, and communication.
• The Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination – 60 multiple choice questions must be completed in the designated two hour and five minute timeframe.

Preparation for the Arizona bar exam takes several months and involves learning the content, memorizing the content and then applying your knowledge practically. It is advisable to complete several practice questions, ideally under timed conditions, to gain a thorough understanding of the expectation and reality of the exam.

Prepping for the bar alone can be exhausting.  Finding and using additional resources or group studying will make the process a bit more enjoyable.  And if you struggle in certain areas or aren’t as confident as you might be, an Arizona bar tutor might be helpful as well! 

Texas

To pass the Texas bar exam the first time, you will need to join the other 77% of successful candidates. The exam is longer than most other states so you probably need to spend more time preparing. Don’t let this put you off, with a fairly high success rate for first time candidates you can approach the exam with a positive attitude.

The exam is spread over 2 ½ days and is made up of four components;

• The Multistate Performance Test (MPT) – a 90 minute session that makes up 10% of your final mark.
• The Procedure and Evidence questions (P&E) – another 90 minute session, also contributing 10%, that covers Texas civil procedure and evidence (including jurisdiction), and Texas and federal criminal procedure and evidence.
• The Multistate Bar Exam (MBE) – contributing 40% to your overall Bar Exam result, the MBE is 200 multiple choice questions administered over two three hour sessions.
• The Texas Essay questions – this component is spread over two sessions of three hours each and and makes up 40% of your total score. Essay topics can include;
• Business associations
• Wills and administration
• Family Law
• Uniform commercial code
• Real property (including oil and gas)
• Trusts and guardianships
• Consumer rights (including DTPA and insurance)

When it comes to preparing for the Texas Bar Exam it is recommended to make the most of study aids given to you at law school and to build a strong support network. This network is crucial for both academic and emotional support. Either a bar prep course, Texas bar exam tutor or other study options will help.  You want to make sure that you have plenty of time to go over and cover everything in detail.  When you create your study schedule, allow for several sessions each week with your tutor or team to go over material, content and practice questions.

 

New York

Future New York lawyers will be pleased to hear that 81% of first time applicants pass the bar exam. It is unclear whether this means that the exam is easier or that New Yorkers are simply better prepared. Even with the fairly high success rate, passing the New York bar exam does not guarantee employment in the legal sector. Studying for the bar exam is difficult and time consuming, even with the high first time pass rate, you shouldn’t assume immediate success.  On top of the seven standardized areas, New York bar exam applicants are also tested on:

• Agency and Partnerships
• Corporations
• Conflict of Laws
• Family Law
• Secured Transactions
• Trusts
• Wills and Estates

There are six 30-minute essay questions as part of the examination. This is a large proportion of the exam so using a bar exam essay tutor is advised. Even the most capable essay writers should seek specific advice when studying for the bar exam. The content and structure is different to many other essay-style examinations.

The MPT section is a 90-minute question that is designed to examine candidates’ ability to use fundamental skills in a realistic situation. They are given a case file and library, and are given a task such as writing a memo, a brief, a statement of fact or a will. It doesn’t necessarily require any regurgitation of knowledge, but more evidence to suggest that an applicant will be capable in the legal workforce. That being said, some specific knowledge of the law is still required to form a thorough and logical response. The best way to review for this section of the New York bar exam is to complete as many practice questions as possible to familiarize yourself with the layout and style of questions asked.

New York is one of the few states that allows candidates with a foreign legal education to sit for the bar, making it a popular choice for international applicants.

Ok, it’s finally time and you want to check out some GED preparation classes and start prepping!  You’ve decided to take the GED and get your certificate equivalent to a high school diploma.  Congrats to you! So, what is the next step? The next step and the most important one, of course, is preparation for the test.

Since the new GED tests came out, people are struggling more than before to pass it and earn the certificate because there is no chance of combining the scores from multiple attempts as there used to be on the older version of the test. This makes the test harder and more challenging, but it is certainly not impossible to ace it. All you need is good organization, time, dedication and strong will to pass it.

How to Prepare for the GED Test At Home

There are several steps you need to take to start preparing yourself properly for the GED test. Here are some of the most important of them:

1. Get to Know the Requirements for Your State

There are different GED exam requirements depending on the state you live in. Find out what are the requirements you need to meet for your state and double check the information you’ve found.

Get all the information you can at the official GED website and online or ask someone who has already been through the GED locally and is available to help you. They can tell you where to find all the best information can be found and what to start with. It is important that you do this step first, so you don’t study something that is not needed, and vice versa. And it also insures that you focus on all the subjects that are critical within your state.  Being exact with the subjects that you have to study will be of great help: you will focus on what is important and make sure you nail it on the exam when you take it.

2. Get Informed

The second step is to know what you have to study, kind of like we mentioned above but we’re adding emphasis here! Search the internet and visit the official GED website and get informed about the test and what’s included and covered.

• What sections are there?
• How many different areas are there in every section?
• What are the types of questions
• How long do you have for each area and for the test in general

Gather all the information you can and get to know what the GED test looks like. Find an example of the test online and check it out. We guarantee you it will be much easier getting prepared and again, later on when taking the exam to know exactly what it looks like, the format of questions as well as the types of questions that you will see.

3. The Book Hunt – GED Preparation Book
   

After you understand what you need to know and how the test is laid out, it’s time to find the right study material. GED exams are quite common in the US, and you can find prep books in any library or bookshop, all you need to do is start the hunt and find the best ones. Check the official site and see what they recommend. Ask your local librarian if he or she has any other manuals to help you out and take them too. It’s important you find the right sources for studying with up to date information and correct answers.

4. Make a Study Schedule

If you are busy (like most of GED exam test takers are), it is crucial you find enough time for your GED preparations. You know how important this test is to you, so you should re-schedule your days and make enough time for studying. Divide the sections and study one section per day so you don’t get confused or overwhelmed with all the information you’re trying to memorize. Use all the time you can efficiently. There are amazing apps for your smartphone you can download and take with you wherever you go. Check them out and use the time while traveling to work or other activities to revisit what you learned last night.

You Might Also Be Interested In: What is the ASVAB Test? Get ASVAB Tutor Help Today!

5. Study Space

Make sure you have your study space setup and ready at home. A place where you can sit in silence and study the various sections of the GED without being disturbed. Concentration is the No.1 thing when it comes to memorizing the material you’re studying. Psychological studies show if you have poor concentration, you can study for hours, and you still won’t remember much, so don’t waste your precious time.

Have enough time to prepare for studying, make sure you are alone or, at least, no one is disturbing you. Some easy to remember studying tips, such as key tips for studying, such as study 20-30 minutes and then take a 10 minute break to rest your brain. Turn off your cell phone and other electronics that may disturb you during your studying. Let me repeat that – Turn*Off*Your*Phone!  Here’s 25 of our other favorite study tips that might help you as well: Private Tutoring at Home – Study Tips

6. “GED Classes Near Me”?
   

More often than we can count, we often are asked – “Can you help us find GED classes near me?”  And we agree, find all the help you can! Search the internet for GED classes near your location and start with the classes as soon as possible. GED prep classes will help you relieve the stress and make you feel more confident about the exam. You won’t be studying at home all alone and stressing out how you won’t make it. In the class, you will meet other people who are trying just like you, and you will meet a teacher or a professional instructor who will help you with your studying. The teacher will always be there to explain you anything you are not sure about and to give you extra information if you need any. Classes can be fun, and you will feel better after taking them, rather than studying on your own.

7. How to Find GED Preparation Classes – Online Classes

Use the internet as much as you can to help you with the GED exam. The online community of GED prep classes and programs is vast, and there are many online classes you can take in the comfort of your home. It is a great idea because you don’t have to lose time on going to or from a class in your area and you can feel more comfortable at home than with unknown people around you.

8. Private Tutoring

If you learn better or feel more comfortable with someone one on on, you  might want to consider this option. When hiring a private tutor for the GED, you are organizing your study schedule the way it suits you best plus you get a professional who will guide you through the material and be there to answer any question you have. You can’t re-schedule a class just because you have to stay late working, nor you can ask them to re-schedule an online class. Find private tutors and invest in your studying and success, you won’t regret it. Your tutor will motivate you and keep you going when you lose interest and concentration; he will be there just for you and you get the support  and assistance needed in insure that you ace the exam!

9. Take GED Practice Test Options

There are GED practice tests online that you can and should take. Whether you have a private GED math tutor or are studying on your own, these practice tests will help.  You will get familiar with the type of the questions, and you will see what your weak spots are. Doing tests online will also show you the final score once you finish, so you will see where you stand.

Since math is one of the most problematic areas, doing GED math practice tests is the best thing you can do if you want to be sure you won’t panic when the real test comes. Preparing for the math sections are much easier when you see the real questions rather than just studying and solving problems. A math GED practice test will show you how it will look on the real exam, and you will feel more comfortable once you start doing the real math GED exam.

10. Be Positive!

When enrolling in any GED prep classes or with GED tutors, don’t have a negative attitude about the test and how you will do. It is important you stay positive because that’s going to make the preparation and studying easier. Don’t look at the GED exam as something scary and impossible to pass. Look at it as a way to widen your knowledge and secure a better future for yourself. Approach it with a positive attitude and be excited about all the new information you will get to know! GED prep classes and tutors are there to help you study better and learn everything that has to be learned, but they are also there to decrease the pressure you feel and the fear you have. Enjoy the process of learning and don’t think you can’t make it, because anyone who does prepare for the GED can ace the exam, just like you will!

Let us know which of these suggestions you used in your GED test prep in the comments section!