Tips for Solving LSAT Logic Puzzles
When it comes to taking the LSAT, there is no section law students hate more than the analytical reasoning section more commonly known as logic puzzles. But you shouldn’t be afraid of this segment of the test because more than logical reasoning, once you understand the strategies and techniques for solving a logic puzzle, these questions become easier. Some students actually end up preferring these problems and thinking they are really fun when they feared them before.
When approaching a logic game, there are a few things to keep in mind. The first is that these games are not entirely solvent from the start. When going through the teaching rule, you should realize that given the original set of rules, several different scenarios are still possible. Don’t waste time trying to figure out a single solution for the game. Instead, decide what must be true according to the rules and what cannot be true according to the rules, and then continue with the questions.
Another thing you should do is develop a consistent set of diagrams that you can use to record information for the various games. The LSAT does not allow students to use scratch paper, so all of your notes must fit on the page you are using. Learning to use this blank effectively can greatly improve your chances of answering these questions quickly. Logic games tend to fall into three basic types.
Games that require you to put things in order
Games that require you to group things
Games that require you to determine the attributes of each thing.
It is important that you develop specific diagrams that target each of these types and learn to use them consistently. Many LSAT test prep courses have developed course-specific symbols to effectively handle logic puzzles. Whichever method you learn, learn to use it over and over again. Remember, on the LSAT, speed is a factor and it helps if you are not confused by your own scribbling.
These are the main points to conquer the logic game questions:
Draw a diagram. The games are much simpler if you draw a quick sketch for the initial rules, as well as quick sketches for some of the questions.
Remember that each question is independent of the others. Learn the difference between global rules and local rules and never change your original diagram. Create a new one for each question that references your template. Also, another question could arise that refers to the work you have already deduced and having separate diagrams will help to solve this new question.
Do not make additional assumptions. Stick to the basics and go from question to question.