The LSAT is one of the most challenging standardized tests a law school applicant will face — and preparation makes all the difference. The LSAT Trainer by Mike Kim is widely regarded as one of the best self-study resources available, praised for its clear explanations, logical structure, and practical drills. But having the book is only half the battle. Here's how to use it effectively with a structured study plan.
Why The LSAT Trainer Stands Out?
Unlike many LSAT prep books that simply catalog question types, The LSAT Trainer focuses on building genuine understanding of LSAT reasoning. Mike Kim's approach emphasizes:
- Understanding why correct answers are correct, not just pattern recognition
- Developing flexible thinking skills that transfer across question types
- Honest, practical advice on how to study efficiently
- Integrated drills that reinforce concepts as you learn them
It's particularly well-suited for self-driven students who prefer depth over shortcuts.
Before You Begin: Set Your Baseline
Before opening The LSAT Trainer, take a full, timed practice LSAT under real test conditions. This gives you a baseline score and helps you identify your weakest sections — Logical Reasoning, Logic Games (Analytical Reasoning), or Reading Comprehension. Your baseline will shape how you allocate time across the study plan below.
Recommended Study Plan: 10–12 Weeks
Weeks 1–2: Foundations
- Read Chapters 1–10 of The LSAT Trainer (introduction, core skills, and Logical Reasoning fundamentals)
- Complete all associated drills without time pressure
- Focus on understanding the argument structure: conclusion, premises, assumptions
- Review every wrong answer — understanding errors is more valuable than drilling volume
Weeks 3–5: Logical Reasoning Deep Dive
- Work through the Logical Reasoning chapters systematically
- Practice identifying question stems and matching them to the correct approach
- Begin timing yourself: aim for ~1 minute 20 seconds per LR question
- Use official LSAC PrepTests alongside the Trainer for real question practice
Weeks 6–7: Logic Games (Analytical Reasoning)
- Work through The LSAT Trainer's Logic Games chapters carefully
- Master the core game types: sequencing, grouping, matching, and hybrid
- Diagram every game by hand — consistency in diagramming is key to speed
- Drill older PrepTest Logic Games sections for volume practice
Weeks 8–9: Reading Comprehension
- Study The LSAT Trainer's Reading Comprehension approach
- Practice active reading: identify the main point, author's tone, and passage structure
- Work through full RC sections timed (35 minutes per section)
- Pay special attention to Comparative Reading passages, which appear on every LSAT
Weeks 10–11: Full Practice Tests
- Take 2–3 full timed practice LSATs under real test conditions
- Review every section thoroughly after each test
- Return to The LSAT Trainer for targeted review of weak areas
- Track your score trend — most students see meaningful improvement by this stage
Week 12: Final Polish
- Take one final practice test 3–4 days before your exam
- Light review only in the final 2 days — avoid cramming
- Re-read key sections of The LSAT Trainer that address your persistent weak spots
- Focus on test-day logistics: timing strategy, pacing, and staying calm under pressure
Tips for Getting the Most Out of The LSAT Trainer
- Don't rush. The Trainer is designed to build deep understanding. Skimming chapters defeats the purpose.
- Write in the book. Annotate, underline, and work through drills directly on the page.
- Pair it with official materials. The LSAT Trainer works best alongside real LSAC PrepTests for authentic question practice.
- Track your errors. Keep an error log noting question type, what you missed, and why. Patterns will emerge.
- Be consistent. 1–2 hours of focused daily study beats occasional marathon sessions.
Get Your Copy
Ready to start your LSAT prep? Pick up The LSAT Trainer by Mike Kim from BooksHarbour.com and get started with a study plan built for serious, self-driven law school applicants.
