Jason Mraz
You and I Both
Was it you who spoke the words that things would happen but not to me?
All things are gonna happen naturally
Oh, taking your advice and I'm looking on the bright side
And balancing the whole thing.
Oh, but at often times those words get tangled up in a lines
And the bright light turns to night
Oh, until the dawn it brings
Another day to sing about the magic that was you and me
Cause you and I both loved
What you and I spoke of
And others just read of
Others only read of, of the love
Of the love that I loved
lova lova!
See I'm all about them words
Over numbers, unencumbered numbered words;
Hundreds of pages, pages, pages for words.
More words than I had ever heard, and I feel so alive.
Cause you and I both loved
What you and I spoke of
And others just read of
And if you could see me now
Oh, love love
You and I, You and I
Not so little you and I anymore
And with this silence brings a moral story
More importantly evolving is the glory of a boy
Cause you and I both loved
What you and I spoke of (of, of)
And others just read of
And if you could see me now
Well, then I'm almost finally out of
I'm finally out of
Finally deedeedeedeedeedee
Well I'm almost finally, finally
Well I am free
Oh, I'm free
And it's okay if you had to go away
Oh, just remember that telephones
Well, they work out of both ways
But if I never ever hear them ring
If nothing else I'll think the bells inside
Have finally found you someone else and that's okay
Cause I'll remember everything you sang
Cause you and I both loved
What you and I spoke of (of,)
And others just read of
and if you could see me now
Well, then I'm almost finally out of
I'm finally out of
Finally deedeedeedeedeede
Well I'm almost finally, finally
Out of words
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Saturday, February 28, 2009
LR's Primary Objective
#1 : Determine whether the stimulus contains an argument or if it is only a set of factual statements.
#2 : If the stimulus contains an argument, identify the conclusion of the argument. If the stimulus contains a fact set, examine each fact.
#3 : If the stimulus contains an argument, determine whether the atgument is strong or weak.
#4 : Read closely and know precisely what the author said. Do not generalize!
#5 : Carefully read and identify the question stem. Do not assume that certain words are automatically associated with certain question types.
#2 : If the stimulus contains an argument, identify the conclusion of the argument. If the stimulus contains a fact set, examine each fact.
#3 : If the stimulus contains an argument, determine whether the atgument is strong or weak.
#4 : Read closely and know precisely what the author said. Do not generalize!
#5 : Carefully read and identify the question stem. Do not assume that certain words are automatically associated with certain question types.
House M.D. S05E01
Cameron : You think you're making a rational choice. You think the worst is over. And then... six months later, you look back and you realize you didn't know what you were doing.
Wilson : Are you saying the pain doesn't go away?
Cameron : It gets easier. Not in two months; not in two years; but no, it never really goes away.
Wilson : Being here-- this building-- I was just in the lounge. I kept staring at Amber's locker.
Cameron : I saw a guy wearing a scarf this morning. The color reminded me of his eyes. We lived 500 miles from here.
一萬遍
一萬遍
曲: 丁天牧 詞: dodow & 丁天牧 編曲: 丁天牧
現在這首歌 是我祝福的愛 願你能感受 我對你的表白
現在這首歌 是我心中的獨白 願你能感應我心中的澎湃
輕輕閉上我眼睛 去找尋你身影
怕一旦睜開眼睛 你的話語 你的笑影 消失無蹤跡
把你的名字默念一萬遍
把你的樣子刻在心的中間
點點滴滴 甜蜜回憶 我怎麼會忘記
我是不小心 我是不小心
分手的時候 眼淚決堤
把你的名字默念一萬遍
把你的樣子刻在心的中間
點點滴滴 甜蜜回憶 我怎麼會忘記
我是不小心 我是不小心
分手的時候 該注意聽
把你的名字默念一萬遍
http://mymedia.yam.com/m/1979616
曲: 丁天牧 詞: dodow & 丁天牧 編曲: 丁天牧
現在這首歌 是我祝福的愛 願你能感受 我對你的表白
現在這首歌 是我心中的獨白 願你能感應我心中的澎湃
輕輕閉上我眼睛 去找尋你身影
怕一旦睜開眼睛 你的話語 你的笑影 消失無蹤跡
把你的名字默念一萬遍
把你的樣子刻在心的中間
點點滴滴 甜蜜回憶 我怎麼會忘記
我是不小心 我是不小心
分手的時候 眼淚決堤
把你的名字默念一萬遍
把你的樣子刻在心的中間
點點滴滴 甜蜜回憶 我怎麼會忘記
我是不小心 我是不小心
分手的時候 該注意聽
把你的名字默念一萬遍
http://mymedia.yam.com/m/1979616
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Life is Wonderful
Jason Mraz
Life Is Wonderful Lyrics
It takes a crane to build a crane
It takes two floors to make a story
It takes an egg to make a hen
It takes a hen to make an egg
There is no end to what I'm saying
It takes a thought to make a word
And it takes some words to make an action
And it takes some work to make it work
It takes some good to make it hurt
It takes some bad for satisfaction
Ah la la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la la life goes full circle
Ah la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la
It takes a night to make it dawn
And it takes a day to make you yawn brother
And it takes some old to make you young
It takes some cold to know the sun
It takes the one to have the other
And it takes no time to fall in love
But it takes you years to know what love is
And it takes some fears to make you trust
It takes some tears to make it rust
It takes the rust to HAVE it polished
Ah la la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la la life goes full circle
Ah la la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la
It takes some silence to make sound
And it takes a loss before you found it
And it takes a road to go nowhere
It takes a toll to make you care
It takes a hole to MAKE a mountain
Ah la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la life goes full circle
Ah la la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la life is meaningful
Ah la la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la life is meaningful
Ah la la la la la la life is full of
Ah la la la la la life is so full of love
Ah la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la la life is meaningful
Ah la la la la la life is full of
Ah la la la la la life is so full of love
Life Is Wonderful Lyrics
It takes a crane to build a crane
It takes two floors to make a story
It takes an egg to make a hen
It takes a hen to make an egg
There is no end to what I'm saying
It takes a thought to make a word
And it takes some words to make an action
And it takes some work to make it work
It takes some good to make it hurt
It takes some bad for satisfaction
Ah la la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la la life goes full circle
Ah la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la
It takes a night to make it dawn
And it takes a day to make you yawn brother
And it takes some old to make you young
It takes some cold to know the sun
It takes the one to have the other
And it takes no time to fall in love
But it takes you years to know what love is
And it takes some fears to make you trust
It takes some tears to make it rust
It takes the rust to HAVE it polished
Ah la la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la la life goes full circle
Ah la la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la
It takes some silence to make sound
And it takes a loss before you found it
And it takes a road to go nowhere
It takes a toll to make you care
It takes a hole to MAKE a mountain
Ah la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la life goes full circle
Ah la la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la life is meaningful
Ah la la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la life is meaningful
Ah la la la la la la life is full of
Ah la la la la la life is so full of love
Ah la la la la la life is wonderful
Ah la la la la la la life is meaningful
Ah la la la la la life is full of
Ah la la la la la life is so full of love
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Great Advice on How to Get 160+ on the LSAT...(UberLSAT)
I posted this on it's own thread, but of course this is a good place for it too:
How I got a 178
I've gotten some PMs asking about my study methods so I thought I'd share. I definitely feel that I was lucky to get the score that I did, as I walked out of there feeling like I had missed at about 5 questions and hoping that the scale would give me a 177. I'd be embarassed to tell you which ones I did miss, because they were a couple of the easiest questions on the entire exam, in LG which I normally ace. Both were at the beginning of my first section, and I'm pretty sure I was a little thrown off and distracted by actual test conditions (having people around me, etc.)
I didn't take any prep course. Normally classes like that make me feel like I am being talked down to at least some of the time, which makes me bored and frustrated and keeps me from paying attention when they get to the part that matters. That's just a matter of personal experience though; I am not in general against prep courses, and probably some courses are not like that. Historically I also have had good luck studying for standarized tests on my own from books, so I didn't feel that it was necessary to spend the money.
The very first thing I did was read every word of the "preparing for the LSAT" pdf from LSAC. I worked through all the problems therein, untimed, and was pleased to discover that I got them all right. I thought this would bode well for my future.
Second, I took a Kaplan diagnostic (using their software) and got an appallingly bad 156. Then I worked through the lessons in their software, and took the two additional practice exams therein, scoring 152 and 165. It's not clear that the practice tests in software have very good diagnostic value, though, because they are on screen which makes a lot of the problem types harder to manage. At this point I was very confused about the difference between inferences and assumptions -- it seems silly now -- but the software helped a bit.
My worst section at this point was LG -- like most people early on in their LSAT practice, I would run out of time well before finishing a section. After finishing the Kaplan software, I worked through the LG bible; then took all the LG sections from 1 to 34 under timed conditions; if I ran out of time I would note where I had stopped and then continued to finish the section; I also noted how much time I spent on each of the 4 problem sets, though it's not clear whether or how this information helped.
During the time that I was working through the LG bible, I also did about 3 full modern LSATs per week, starting with #35 and going forward. After finishing each one I would study all the problems I had missed, and try to figure out how to better set up the games to save time.
At this point my LG performance was really solid -- generally I could finish the games in about 20 minutes, and have 15 minutes left to rework anything that seemed hard or confusing. My LG and RC were both averaging around -2 per section (helps to have kept taking a few practice tests while studying LGs, because I had a good idea of my relative LR and RC performance at this point). Since -2 LR per section is -4 per test, I decided to move on to the LR bible. I read everything in the bible, but skipped the problem sets because a lot of them contain the problems from modern tests, and I did not want to spoil those tests' practice value. Now I was trying to do 5 full tests per week.
(BTW I disagree with the LR bible on one important topic -- I do better if I read the question stems first. There's an example that should be famous, of an LR passage where the stimulus has statements from two people but the question only asks what person #1 thought -- to this day I have never read what person #2 said. That's an extreme example, but in general I think it's easier to focus on the relevant information if you know what you are looking for; and often the question will be one of a few standard choices, which you can recognize at a glance. However, on the RC passages I read the passage first, because it's too hard to remember that many questions and also take in the passage. Anyway, back to the study plan.)
Finally my LR was down to an average of -1 per test; meanwhile as I moved forward with the full length practice tests my RC scores were getting worse, settling around -4 per test, so that my overall average per test was a steady 175. I later found out this probably had something to do with RC getting slightly harder as you move forward from #35 to the present.
All that was left to do was to shore up my RC score. I went back through all my previous tests and studied all the questions I had gotten wrong. I added an extra RC section (from the premodern tests, working backward from #34) to each of my practice tests as an "experimental" section. For a while I tried Voyager's method of writing down a short summary of each paragraph as you go but this did not seem to help and I eventually gave up on it. I did find it helpful to, as he says, box every name and every term that is defined, and underline words that indicate a point of view or a transition. I also put a star next to anything that sounded like a main point or conclusion. For passages that had 4-5 paragraphs, if any questions asked about a paragraph by number, I would write the paragraph number next to each one to avoid stupid mistakes. If the passage was easy for me (I'm a science person) I would do very little underlining and try to get through the passage and questions quickly, so that I would have more time to work through the more difficult passages.
There aren't any shortcuts, or at least I didn't come upon them. Just practice practice practice, under conditions as close to the actual test as you can manage.
The most important thing that helped me was improving time management. I learned to work very quickly on questions that were easy, to try and save up some time to go back to the tough questions after the end. As you read in the bibles, the questions get harder as you go through the section, and if you get cocky because you made it through the first 10 questions in 12 minutes you can still very easily run out of time by the end. I was trying to make it through the first 15 in 15 minutes. Any time I thought I had the right answer but wasn't completely sure, I'd draw a box around it; and if a question was taking too long, I would mark my best current guess and then draw a box with a star in the corner and move on (after 2 minutes you should to move on from any LR question; and after 10 minutes you should move on from an RC passage or game, unless it's the last one and you don't have anything you badly want to recheck). On the actual test I had about 10 minutes left at the end of each LR section to go back and rethink all the hard questions, and a similar amount of time on the RC. My first section, the LG, is where I made my two scored mistakes, I think because the unfamiliar conditions distracted me and slowed me down.
If I could do it again, I would at least once want to have someone "proctor" the test, where they keep time for me, so that I would get used to starting and stopping my timer when someone else was keeping time (stupid I know but I only properly used my timer on 2-3 sections of the actual test); and at least once do a practice test in a public place like a library or bookstore, to get used to ignoring the distractions of people around me; alternatively it might've helped to practice with a news broadcast running behind me, though that might've been too extreme. I believe if I had done this I'd have aced the LG section too and made a 180 -- not that I'm too upset, but don't get me wrong, those two questions will definitely haunt my dreams if I don't get into my top choice school.
Followup: someone asked how long this took -- it was about 2 1/2 months, probably around 40 hours per week. Sheesh.
How I got a 178
I've gotten some PMs asking about my study methods so I thought I'd share. I definitely feel that I was lucky to get the score that I did, as I walked out of there feeling like I had missed at about 5 questions and hoping that the scale would give me a 177. I'd be embarassed to tell you which ones I did miss, because they were a couple of the easiest questions on the entire exam, in LG which I normally ace. Both were at the beginning of my first section, and I'm pretty sure I was a little thrown off and distracted by actual test conditions (having people around me, etc.)
I didn't take any prep course. Normally classes like that make me feel like I am being talked down to at least some of the time, which makes me bored and frustrated and keeps me from paying attention when they get to the part that matters. That's just a matter of personal experience though; I am not in general against prep courses, and probably some courses are not like that. Historically I also have had good luck studying for standarized tests on my own from books, so I didn't feel that it was necessary to spend the money.
The very first thing I did was read every word of the "preparing for the LSAT" pdf from LSAC. I worked through all the problems therein, untimed, and was pleased to discover that I got them all right. I thought this would bode well for my future.
Second, I took a Kaplan diagnostic (using their software) and got an appallingly bad 156. Then I worked through the lessons in their software, and took the two additional practice exams therein, scoring 152 and 165. It's not clear that the practice tests in software have very good diagnostic value, though, because they are on screen which makes a lot of the problem types harder to manage. At this point I was very confused about the difference between inferences and assumptions -- it seems silly now -- but the software helped a bit.
My worst section at this point was LG -- like most people early on in their LSAT practice, I would run out of time well before finishing a section. After finishing the Kaplan software, I worked through the LG bible; then took all the LG sections from 1 to 34 under timed conditions; if I ran out of time I would note where I had stopped and then continued to finish the section; I also noted how much time I spent on each of the 4 problem sets, though it's not clear whether or how this information helped.
During the time that I was working through the LG bible, I also did about 3 full modern LSATs per week, starting with #35 and going forward. After finishing each one I would study all the problems I had missed, and try to figure out how to better set up the games to save time.
At this point my LG performance was really solid -- generally I could finish the games in about 20 minutes, and have 15 minutes left to rework anything that seemed hard or confusing. My LG and RC were both averaging around -2 per section (helps to have kept taking a few practice tests while studying LGs, because I had a good idea of my relative LR and RC performance at this point). Since -2 LR per section is -4 per test, I decided to move on to the LR bible. I read everything in the bible, but skipped the problem sets because a lot of them contain the problems from modern tests, and I did not want to spoil those tests' practice value. Now I was trying to do 5 full tests per week.
(BTW I disagree with the LR bible on one important topic -- I do better if I read the question stems first. There's an example that should be famous, of an LR passage where the stimulus has statements from two people but the question only asks what person #1 thought -- to this day I have never read what person #2 said. That's an extreme example, but in general I think it's easier to focus on the relevant information if you know what you are looking for; and often the question will be one of a few standard choices, which you can recognize at a glance. However, on the RC passages I read the passage first, because it's too hard to remember that many questions and also take in the passage. Anyway, back to the study plan.)
Finally my LR was down to an average of -1 per test; meanwhile as I moved forward with the full length practice tests my RC scores were getting worse, settling around -4 per test, so that my overall average per test was a steady 175. I later found out this probably had something to do with RC getting slightly harder as you move forward from #35 to the present.
All that was left to do was to shore up my RC score. I went back through all my previous tests and studied all the questions I had gotten wrong. I added an extra RC section (from the premodern tests, working backward from #34) to each of my practice tests as an "experimental" section. For a while I tried Voyager's method of writing down a short summary of each paragraph as you go but this did not seem to help and I eventually gave up on it. I did find it helpful to, as he says, box every name and every term that is defined, and underline words that indicate a point of view or a transition. I also put a star next to anything that sounded like a main point or conclusion. For passages that had 4-5 paragraphs, if any questions asked about a paragraph by number, I would write the paragraph number next to each one to avoid stupid mistakes. If the passage was easy for me (I'm a science person) I would do very little underlining and try to get through the passage and questions quickly, so that I would have more time to work through the more difficult passages.
There aren't any shortcuts, or at least I didn't come upon them. Just practice practice practice, under conditions as close to the actual test as you can manage.
The most important thing that helped me was improving time management. I learned to work very quickly on questions that were easy, to try and save up some time to go back to the tough questions after the end. As you read in the bibles, the questions get harder as you go through the section, and if you get cocky because you made it through the first 10 questions in 12 minutes you can still very easily run out of time by the end. I was trying to make it through the first 15 in 15 minutes. Any time I thought I had the right answer but wasn't completely sure, I'd draw a box around it; and if a question was taking too long, I would mark my best current guess and then draw a box with a star in the corner and move on (after 2 minutes you should to move on from any LR question; and after 10 minutes you should move on from an RC passage or game, unless it's the last one and you don't have anything you badly want to recheck). On the actual test I had about 10 minutes left at the end of each LR section to go back and rethink all the hard questions, and a similar amount of time on the RC. My first section, the LG, is where I made my two scored mistakes, I think because the unfamiliar conditions distracted me and slowed me down.
If I could do it again, I would at least once want to have someone "proctor" the test, where they keep time for me, so that I would get used to starting and stopping my timer when someone else was keeping time (stupid I know but I only properly used my timer on 2-3 sections of the actual test); and at least once do a practice test in a public place like a library or bookstore, to get used to ignoring the distractions of people around me; alternatively it might've helped to practice with a news broadcast running behind me, though that might've been too extreme. I believe if I had done this I'd have aced the LG section too and made a 180 -- not that I'm too upset, but don't get me wrong, those two questions will definitely haunt my dreams if I don't get into my top choice school.
Followup: someone asked how long this took -- it was about 2 1/2 months, probably around 40 hours per week. Sheesh.
Great Advice on How to Get 160+ on the LSAT...(Unstoppable)
1. 180
2. No books, except for those from the LSAC containing just prep tests.
3. None.
4. I began studying in August and took the test in December. I did not work or go to school during this time, and I had to move home with my parents to allow that. For some, that might not be possible, and for many more, it would be undesireable. For the latter among you, I suggest you take the time to assess what is really important: a test that can and will contribute significantly to determining the career opportunities you will have for the rest of your life, or your personal lifestyle for the next few months? If you lean towards the latter, I suggest you re-evaluate your commitment to law school to begin with...
My preparation consisted almost entirely of prep tests, mostly under very strict conditions. Because four sections does not really prepare you for the six you will face on test day, I usually did them in pairs: four sections (a full prep test), then a 15 minute break, then four sections (another full prep test). This is more extreme than the actual test, so if you can master that level of endurance, then the actual thing will be a piece of cake. I also used the same equipment I would be using on test day, down to the same pencils, sharpener, watch, et cetera. This is important because you do not want anything to be different on test day so that it might throw you off. Some people advise taking prep tests in a public area where there are other people around such as a library. This may be a good idea if you are prone to being distracted by that sort of thing, but I just took my tests at my desk at home and did not find the change in environment at all distracting on test day.
The other important thing, and this is echoed in the posts of a few other top-scorers, is you don't just take the prep tests, but you have to review them thoroughly. I would say that I spent about twice as much time reviewing each test as I did taking them. Any question I got wrong would get exhaustive attention in this review; I would analyze exactly how I approached the question, why that approach failed, and what approach would have allowed me to select the credited response. I would similarly pay great attention to each question that I had marked as 'unsure' during the test. It is important to see how you got it right, and how you avoided getting it wrong (perhaps narrowly) rather than just be content that you got the correct answer. That said, there may be questions for which the answer does not seem as cut-and-dried, even after extensive consideration, as perhaps it ought to be. Do not dwell extensively on these; whether the problem lies in you or in the test (neither is perfect, I assure you), there should not be so many of these as to seriously affect your score on test day. In fact, I would say I only encountered a question which I could not reconcile about once every four prep tests. If it is happening a lot more frequently for you, then you may be missing some important rule or concept which is essential to understanding those questions. Try to look at them as a group and see if they have common elements, and perhaps discuss them on a forum like this one where other people may be able to illuminate the issue that is causing you problems.
5. In the end, I did between 30 and 40 prep tests. If you are going to leave some out, then leave out the older ones, since it tends to be the case that the more recent the test, the more relevant it is to the one you will have on test day.
6. I would have investigated my test center a little more thoroughly. As it turned out, my center was fine (except for the fact that they did not get started remotely on time,) but it was one area that could have caused trouble and I essentially just "lucked out" in that regard. Other than that, as I am completely satisfied with the outcome, I would not change anything.
7. I was worried about taking the test in the morning, especially with a 1 hour plus drive to the test center, so I switched to a sleeping schedule whereby I would sleep from about 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. about two weeks before the test. This allowed me to take the test in "my afternoon," and worked quite well as I never felt remotely tired or unfocused during the test. However, I don't suggest doing this unless you know how your body will react. That said, if you are really not a morning person it is something to consider, though I'd suggest that you start experimenting with adjusting your circadian rythm months ahead of time to get a feel for what you can expect.
2. No books, except for those from the LSAC containing just prep tests.
3. None.
4. I began studying in August and took the test in December. I did not work or go to school during this time, and I had to move home with my parents to allow that. For some, that might not be possible, and for many more, it would be undesireable. For the latter among you, I suggest you take the time to assess what is really important: a test that can and will contribute significantly to determining the career opportunities you will have for the rest of your life, or your personal lifestyle for the next few months? If you lean towards the latter, I suggest you re-evaluate your commitment to law school to begin with...
My preparation consisted almost entirely of prep tests, mostly under very strict conditions. Because four sections does not really prepare you for the six you will face on test day, I usually did them in pairs: four sections (a full prep test), then a 15 minute break, then four sections (another full prep test). This is more extreme than the actual test, so if you can master that level of endurance, then the actual thing will be a piece of cake. I also used the same equipment I would be using on test day, down to the same pencils, sharpener, watch, et cetera. This is important because you do not want anything to be different on test day so that it might throw you off. Some people advise taking prep tests in a public area where there are other people around such as a library. This may be a good idea if you are prone to being distracted by that sort of thing, but I just took my tests at my desk at home and did not find the change in environment at all distracting on test day.
The other important thing, and this is echoed in the posts of a few other top-scorers, is you don't just take the prep tests, but you have to review them thoroughly. I would say that I spent about twice as much time reviewing each test as I did taking them. Any question I got wrong would get exhaustive attention in this review; I would analyze exactly how I approached the question, why that approach failed, and what approach would have allowed me to select the credited response. I would similarly pay great attention to each question that I had marked as 'unsure' during the test. It is important to see how you got it right, and how you avoided getting it wrong (perhaps narrowly) rather than just be content that you got the correct answer. That said, there may be questions for which the answer does not seem as cut-and-dried, even after extensive consideration, as perhaps it ought to be. Do not dwell extensively on these; whether the problem lies in you or in the test (neither is perfect, I assure you), there should not be so many of these as to seriously affect your score on test day. In fact, I would say I only encountered a question which I could not reconcile about once every four prep tests. If it is happening a lot more frequently for you, then you may be missing some important rule or concept which is essential to understanding those questions. Try to look at them as a group and see if they have common elements, and perhaps discuss them on a forum like this one where other people may be able to illuminate the issue that is causing you problems.
5. In the end, I did between 30 and 40 prep tests. If you are going to leave some out, then leave out the older ones, since it tends to be the case that the more recent the test, the more relevant it is to the one you will have on test day.
6. I would have investigated my test center a little more thoroughly. As it turned out, my center was fine (except for the fact that they did not get started remotely on time,) but it was one area that could have caused trouble and I essentially just "lucked out" in that regard. Other than that, as I am completely satisfied with the outcome, I would not change anything.
7. I was worried about taking the test in the morning, especially with a 1 hour plus drive to the test center, so I switched to a sleeping schedule whereby I would sleep from about 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. about two weeks before the test. This allowed me to take the test in "my afternoon," and worked quite well as I never felt remotely tired or unfocused during the test. However, I don't suggest doing this unless you know how your body will react. That said, if you are really not a morning person it is something to consider, though I'd suggest that you start experimenting with adjusting your circadian rythm months ahead of time to get a feel for what you can expect.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Great Advice on How to Get 160+ on the LSAT...(Roo)
1) What score did you get?
178
2) What books did you use? (Kaplan, Powerscore LRB, Powerscore LGB, etc)
The Bibles (which I went through 2 times a piece), Superprep, the two most recent LSAT books containing 10 tests, all other released practice tests.
I did the logic games in LSAT180 but skipped the rest - its crap.
3) What prep courses did you take (if any)? Full length, weekend?
None
4) How long did you study for, and under what conditions? (during school, during the summer, etc)
Four and half months, while working and in graduate school.
5) How many preptests did you do?
25
6) What would you change if you were to do it again?
Try to relax the morning of the test. I was too stressed and I think it probably lost me a point. Also, I would have started off with Superprep so I could get in the mind of LSAC to begin with. As it happened I used it towards the end and it was not a lot of help
7) Any other misc comments/suggestions.
1. Get obsessed. I researched everything I could about the LSAT, including reading journal articles about the test itself and standardized testing in general. I got obsessed with every little detail ( i.e. How well do I work in a too-cold room as opposed to a too-hot room? What about a noisy room versus a quiet room?). Cover every detail, figure out how many cups of coffee put you at your prime, and what kind of pencil eraser works best. Ridiculous, yes. This isn't a shuttle launch, after all. But treat it like one and you're less likely to have unexpected little things throw you off on test day.
2. You need a cheerleader or two. Get someone important in your life - friend, sig other, parent, whatever, and make sure they know how important this test is to you. This is someone to report your progress to on a regular basis, who understands the difference between getting a 171 on a PT and a 175 and will help you celebrate.
3. Logic games were my Achilles heel and I knew it. When I started, I couldnt finish one in under 12 minutes. I put aside everything else and did logic games only for about a month. I made photocopies and did the same games over and over. Focusing intensely on my weakness helped a lot.
4. On LR - cut out the questions you have trouble with and lightly pencil the right answers on the back. Keep them all together and once you have a good stack go over them. Make sure you can explain out loud why the right answers are the right answers, if you can't, you have to find someone who can explain it to you. This board used to be a good resource for that but now that LSAT questions cannot be posted I'm not sure what to do.
5. Reading comp. Forget the nonsense about reading the economist, etc. If you have reading comp issues then by the time you reach test day you should have completed every single released LSAT reading comprehension section under the sun, and should understand all of your mistakes on questions perfectly. That's the best prep, IMHO
6. If you're taking the LSAT in the morning, make sure you wake up early for a week or so to put your mind on the right schedule. For seven days before the test I woke up at 6 am and took an LSAT around the same time that I would be taking it on test day. Especially important for non-morning people.
7. To motivate myself I would imagine opening my email some day in July and seeing a 165. All of my dreams of top schools would vanish at that point (thanks to a not so stellar UGPA). This provided me with enough motivation to get out of bed early to study and do practice tests, etc. Especially if you are a self-studier, you need to come up with some similar motivational imagery/mantra to keep you going.
Last thought on LR and RC - doing well on these sections involves really knowing the nuances of the meanings of certain words and phrases. Focus on that fact in your prep. I found that certain words did not really mean exactly what I thought they meant, and this made a big difference.
178
2) What books did you use? (Kaplan, Powerscore LRB, Powerscore LGB, etc)
The Bibles (which I went through 2 times a piece), Superprep, the two most recent LSAT books containing 10 tests, all other released practice tests.
I did the logic games in LSAT180 but skipped the rest - its crap.
3) What prep courses did you take (if any)? Full length, weekend?
None
4) How long did you study for, and under what conditions? (during school, during the summer, etc)
Four and half months, while working and in graduate school.
5) How many preptests did you do?
25
6) What would you change if you were to do it again?
Try to relax the morning of the test. I was too stressed and I think it probably lost me a point. Also, I would have started off with Superprep so I could get in the mind of LSAC to begin with. As it happened I used it towards the end and it was not a lot of help
7) Any other misc comments/suggestions.
1. Get obsessed. I researched everything I could about the LSAT, including reading journal articles about the test itself and standardized testing in general. I got obsessed with every little detail ( i.e. How well do I work in a too-cold room as opposed to a too-hot room? What about a noisy room versus a quiet room?). Cover every detail, figure out how many cups of coffee put you at your prime, and what kind of pencil eraser works best. Ridiculous, yes. This isn't a shuttle launch, after all. But treat it like one and you're less likely to have unexpected little things throw you off on test day.
2. You need a cheerleader or two. Get someone important in your life - friend, sig other, parent, whatever, and make sure they know how important this test is to you. This is someone to report your progress to on a regular basis, who understands the difference between getting a 171 on a PT and a 175 and will help you celebrate.
3. Logic games were my Achilles heel and I knew it. When I started, I couldnt finish one in under 12 minutes. I put aside everything else and did logic games only for about a month. I made photocopies and did the same games over and over. Focusing intensely on my weakness helped a lot.
4. On LR - cut out the questions you have trouble with and lightly pencil the right answers on the back. Keep them all together and once you have a good stack go over them. Make sure you can explain out loud why the right answers are the right answers, if you can't, you have to find someone who can explain it to you. This board used to be a good resource for that but now that LSAT questions cannot be posted I'm not sure what to do.
5. Reading comp. Forget the nonsense about reading the economist, etc. If you have reading comp issues then by the time you reach test day you should have completed every single released LSAT reading comprehension section under the sun, and should understand all of your mistakes on questions perfectly. That's the best prep, IMHO
6. If you're taking the LSAT in the morning, make sure you wake up early for a week or so to put your mind on the right schedule. For seven days before the test I woke up at 6 am and took an LSAT around the same time that I would be taking it on test day. Especially important for non-morning people.
7. To motivate myself I would imagine opening my email some day in July and seeing a 165. All of my dreams of top schools would vanish at that point (thanks to a not so stellar UGPA). This provided me with enough motivation to get out of bed early to study and do practice tests, etc. Especially if you are a self-studier, you need to come up with some similar motivational imagery/mantra to keep you going.
Last thought on LR and RC - doing well on these sections involves really knowing the nuances of the meanings of certain words and phrases. Focus on that fact in your prep. I found that certain words did not really mean exactly what I thought they meant, and this made a big difference.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
紀念
蔡健雅
紀念
作詞：姚謙 作曲：Tanya Chua 演唱：蔡健雅
想念變成一條線 在時間裡面漫延 長得可以把世界切成了兩個面
他在春天那一邊 妳的秋天剛落葉 剛落葉
如果從此不見面 讓你憑記憶想念 本來這段愛情可以記得很完美
他的樣子已改變 有新伴侶的氣味 的氣味
那一瞬間 妳終於發現 那曾深愛過的人 (嗯)~~
早在告別的 那天 已消失在這個世界
也許那一次見面 是生命給妳機會 了解愛只是人所渴望的投射面
只是渴望會改變 他的愛已經不見 已不見
那一瞬間 妳終於發現 那曾深愛過的人 (嗯)~~
早在告別的 那天 已消失在這個世界
那一瞬間 妳終於發現 心中的愛和思念~~
都只是屬於 自己 曾經擁有過 曾經擁有過 曾經擁有過 的記念
紀念
作詞：姚謙 作曲：Tanya Chua 演唱：蔡健雅
想念變成一條線 在時間裡面漫延 長得可以把世界切成了兩個面
他在春天那一邊 妳的秋天剛落葉 剛落葉
如果從此不見面 讓你憑記憶想念 本來這段愛情可以記得很完美
他的樣子已改變 有新伴侶的氣味 的氣味
那一瞬間 妳終於發現 那曾深愛過的人 (嗯)~~
早在告別的 那天 已消失在這個世界
也許那一次見面 是生命給妳機會 了解愛只是人所渴望的投射面
只是渴望會改變 他的愛已經不見 已不見
那一瞬間 妳終於發現 那曾深愛過的人 (嗯)~~
早在告別的 那天 已消失在這個世界
那一瞬間 妳終於發現 心中的愛和思念~~
都只是屬於 自己 曾經擁有過 曾經擁有過 曾經擁有過 的記念
葡萄成熟時
陳奕迅
葡萄成熟時
作曲：Vincent chow /anfernee cheung
填詞：黃偉文
編曲：Adrian chan
差不多冬至 一早一晚還是有雨
當初的堅持 現已令你很懷疑 很懷疑
你最尾等到 只有這枯枝
苦戀幾多次 悉心栽種全力灌注
所得竟不如 別個後輩收成時
這一次你真的很介意
* 但見旁人談情何引誘 問到何時葡萄先熟透
你要靜候 再靜候 就算失收 始終要守
# 日後 儘量別教今天的淚白流
留低 擊傷你的石頭 從錯誤裡吸收
也許 豐收 月份尚未到你也得接受
或者要到你將愛釀成醇酒 時機先至熟透
應該怎麼愛 可惜書裡從沒記載 終於摸出來
但歲月卻不回來 不回來 錯過了春天 可會再花開
一千種戀愛 一些需要情淚灌溉
枯毀的溫柔 在最後會長回來
錯的愛 乃必經的配菜
repeat * #
想想天的一邊 亦有個某某 在等候
一心只等葡萄熟透 嚐杯酒
別讓 寂寞害你傷得一夜白頭
仍得不需要的自由 和最耀眼傷口
我知 日後 路上或沒有更美的邂逅
但當你智慧都蘊釀成紅酒
仍可一醉自救
誰都心酸過 那個沒有
Friday, February 13, 2009
Brick Walls
"The brick walls are there for a reason. The brick walls are not there to keep us out; the brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something. The brick walls are there to stop the people who don't want it badly enough. They are there to stop the other people!"
~Randy Pausch, The Last Lecture
Psych Theme
In between the lines there's a lot of obscurity
I'm not inclined to resign to maturity
If it's all right, then you're all wrong
Why bounce around to the same damn song
You'd rather run when you can't crawl
I know, you know, that I'm not telling the truth
I know, you know, they just don't have any proof
Embrace the deception, Lean how to bend
You're worst inhibitions tend to psych you out in the end
I know, you know
I know, you know
I know, you know
I know, you know
I'm not inclined to resign to maturity
If it's all right, then you're all wrong
Why bounce around to the same damn song
You'd rather run when you can't crawl
I know, you know, that I'm not telling the truth
I know, you know, they just don't have any proof
Embrace the deception, Lean how to bend
You're worst inhibitions tend to psych you out in the end
I know, you know
I know, you know
I know, you know
I know, you know
Perfection
Perfection
the quality or state of being complete and correct in every way, conforming to a standard or ideal with no omissions, errors, flaws or extraneous elements.
~Webster
the quality or state of being complete and correct in every way, conforming to a standard or ideal with no omissions, errors, flaws or extraneous elements.
~Webster
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Love Story
Taylor Swift
Love Story
We were both young when I first saw you
I close my eyes
And the flashback starts
I'm standing there
On a balcony of summer air
See the lights,
See the party, the ball gowns
I see you make your way through the crowd
You say hello
Little did I know
That you were Romeo you were throwing pebbles
And my daddy said stay away from Juliet
And I was crying on the staircase
Begging you please don't go, and I said:
Romeo take me somewhere we can be alone
I'll be waiting all there's left to do is run
You'll be the prince and I'll be the princess
It's a love story baby just say yes
So I sneak out to the garden to see you
We keep quiet cause we're dead if they know
So close your eyes
Escape this town for a little while
Cause you were Romeo I was a scarlet letter
And my daddy said stay away from Juliet
But you were everything to me
I was begging you please don't go and I said:
Romeo take me somewhere we can be alone
I'll be waiting all there's left to do is run
You'll be the prince and I'll be the princess
It's a love story baby just say yes
Romeo save me, they try to tell me how to feel
This love is difficult, but it's real,
Don't be afraid
We'll make it out of this mess
It's a love story baby just say yes, oh,
I got tired of waiting
Wondering if you were ever coming around
My faith in you was fading
When I met you on the outskirts of town I said:
Romeo save me I've been feeling so alone
I keep waiting for you but you never come
Is this in my head, I don't know what to think
He knealt to the ground and pulled out a ring
And said:
Marry me Juliet you'll never have to be alone
I love you and that's all I really know
I talked to your dad go pick out a white dress
It's a love story baby just say yes
Oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh
Cause we were both young when I first saw you
Love Story
We were both young when I first saw you
I close my eyes
And the flashback starts
I'm standing there
On a balcony of summer air
See the lights,
See the party, the ball gowns
I see you make your way through the crowd
You say hello
Little did I know
That you were Romeo you were throwing pebbles
And my daddy said stay away from Juliet
And I was crying on the staircase
Begging you please don't go, and I said:
Romeo take me somewhere we can be alone
I'll be waiting all there's left to do is run
You'll be the prince and I'll be the princess
It's a love story baby just say yes
So I sneak out to the garden to see you
We keep quiet cause we're dead if they know
So close your eyes
Escape this town for a little while
Cause you were Romeo I was a scarlet letter
And my daddy said stay away from Juliet
But you were everything to me
I was begging you please don't go and I said:
Romeo take me somewhere we can be alone
I'll be waiting all there's left to do is run
You'll be the prince and I'll be the princess
It's a love story baby just say yes
Romeo save me, they try to tell me how to feel
This love is difficult, but it's real,
Don't be afraid
We'll make it out of this mess
It's a love story baby just say yes, oh,
I got tired of waiting
Wondering if you were ever coming around
My faith in you was fading
When I met you on the outskirts of town I said:
Romeo save me I've been feeling so alone
I keep waiting for you but you never come
Is this in my head, I don't know what to think
He knealt to the ground and pulled out a ring
And said:
Marry me Juliet you'll never have to be alone
I love you and that's all I really know
I talked to your dad go pick out a white dress
It's a love story baby just say yes
Oh, oh, oh
Oh, oh, oh, oh
Cause we were both young when I first saw you
Dance With My Father
Luther Vandross
Dance With My Father
Back when I was a child
Before life removed all the innocence
My father would lift me high
And dance with my mother and me and then
Spin me around till I fell asleep
Then up the stairs he would carry me
And I knew for sure
I was loved
If I could get another chance
Another walk, another dance with him
I'd play a song that would never, ever end
How I'd love, love, love to dance with my father again
Ooh, ooh
When I and my mother would disagree
To get my way I would run from her to him
He'd make me laugh just to comfort me, yeah, yeah
Then finally make me do just what my mama said
Later that night when I was asleep
He left a dollar under my sheet
Never dreamed that he
Would be gone from me
If I could steal one final glance
One final step, one final dance with him
I'd play a song that would never, ever end
'Cause I'd love, love, love to dance with my father again
Sometimes I'd listen outside her door
And I'd hear her, mama cryin' for him
I pray for her even more than me
I pray for her even more than me
I know I'm prayin' for much too much
But could You send back the only man she loved
I know You don't do it usually
But Lord, she's dyin' to dance with my father again
Every night I fall asleep
And this is all I ever dream
YP
016
If one begins by examining why ancients refer to Amazons, it becomes clear that ancient Greek descriptions of such societies were meant not so much to represent observed historical fact-real Amazonian societies-but rather to offer "moral lessons" on the supposed outcome of women's rule in their own society.
018
The physicist rightly dreads precise argument, since an argument that is convincing only if it is precise loses all its force if the assumptions on which it is based are slightly changed, whereas an argument that is convincing though imprecise may well be stable under small perturbations of its underlying assumptions.
029
Perhaps the fact that many of these first studies considered only algae of a size that could be collected in a net (net phytoplankton), a practice that over-looked the smaller phytoplankton (nannoplankton) that we now know grazers are most likely to feed on, led to a de-emphasis of the role of grazers in subseqeuent research.
044
Once such novel idea is that of inserting into the chromosomes of plants discrete genes that are not a part of the plants' natural constitution: specifically, the idea of inserting into nonleguminous plants the genes, if they can be identified and isolated, that fit the leguminous plants to be hosts for nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Hence, the intensified research on legumes.
If one begins by examining why ancients refer to Amazons, it becomes clear that ancient Greek descriptions of such societies were meant not so much to represent observed historical fact-real Amazonian societies-but rather to offer "moral lessons" on the supposed outcome of women's rule in their own society.
018
The physicist rightly dreads precise argument, since an argument that is convincing only if it is precise loses all its force if the assumptions on which it is based are slightly changed, whereas an argument that is convincing though imprecise may well be stable under small perturbations of its underlying assumptions.
029
Perhaps the fact that many of these first studies considered only algae of a size that could be collected in a net (net phytoplankton), a practice that over-looked the smaller phytoplankton (nannoplankton) that we now know grazers are most likely to feed on, led to a de-emphasis of the role of grazers in subseqeuent research.
044
Once such novel idea is that of inserting into the chromosomes of plants discrete genes that are not a part of the plants' natural constitution: specifically, the idea of inserting into nonleguminous plants the genes, if they can be identified and isolated, that fit the leguminous plants to be hosts for nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Hence, the intensified research on legumes.
我的LSAT和J.D.申請經驗
標 題: ∼我的LSAT和J.D.申請經驗∼
提供給各位我的經驗
先列一下我的條件吧：
LSAT: 172 (99TH PERCENTILE, 去年十月考的)
GPA: 3.98 (台大外文系)
TOEFL: 677 （但是我申請的學校都沒有要求托福成績)
RECOMMENDATIONS: 3 (ALL PROFESSORS IN MY OWN DEPT.)
目前已經申請到的學校（由排名高-->低）：
COLUMBIA (#4), NYU (#5), U CHICAGO (#6), BERKELEY (#9),
DUKE (#10), CORNELL (#12), NORTHWESTERN (#13), GEORGETOWN (#14)
申請學校中只被U PENN REJECT（嗚嗚∼ 不過我知道那是我的錯而且我錯在哪）
目前還在等待TOP THREE學校回應（不過我覺得不太樂觀啦∼）
我從第一次看到LSAT的題目到真正去考只有兩個月，但是我是非常密集的準備喔!
我有補習，但是效果可以說是「非常」不好（我不說補習班名字了啦，
不過台灣只有一家補習班有補LSAT，忠孝東路那家）。可能是因為他們是
唯一的一家吧，他們學費宇宙貴（一週兩次課總共不到兩個月，收3萬塊!!），
而且老師不太專業，問什麼不懂什麼還會亂編。班上的同學程度也不太好，
上課方式主要是講解HOMEWORK題目還有很浪費時間的GROUP DISCUSSION。
他們也有家教啦，但是是同一批老師，而且一小時就2千元!!
基本上我去補只是因為我不認識任何有LSAT相關資料的人，所以只有從那邊
才能得到歷年OFFICIAL TEST的題目。(BY THE WAY, 我這還有很多題庫願意
提供給需要的人，都是歷年OFFICIAL TEST的題目）。
所以!（講到重點了）我給要準備LSAT的同學的建議是：
如果你有三個月以上的準備時間的話，第一個月建議先不要看LSAT的任何
題目，而是多做GRE的分析及閱讀。
這真的很有幫助，因為雖然LSAT閱讀比RE難許多，但是要先練好基本
的閱讀能力才能挑戰更高難度的。至於分析，LSAT和RE的都蠻難的，
但是難的方是不同。RE的每一個小題都是要個別想的，LSAT則是一個大題中
的每一個小題都有密切關連，只要你一想出KEY CONNECTION就幾乎全部都能
快速看出答案。RE是訓練分析能力及速度的基礎，對解LSAT題目有很大幫助。
另外，因為邏輯是LSAT中最最重要的一項，建議多做做GMAT的邏輯題目!!
第二個月開始就要密集做LSAT OFFICIAL TESTS了!不過很重要的是不要
貪多，如每天做一整回題目。最好是隔差不多三天做一回，其間一定一定
要複習以前做過的題目，也要繼續進行RE和AT的練習。
最後一、兩週就要隔天做一回TEST，並同時複習之前的題目。我不斷強調
要複習因為真的非常重要。LSAT題目的答案都長得很像，讓人家不只是
不知道為什麼正確答案是正確的，更糟的是不知道為什麼自己選的答案是錯的。
而且一定要搞懂為什麼你選的答案是對的喔，不要只是瞎猜對了後就不理它，
這樣你的LOGICAL ABILITIES永遠不會增強。
最後我只是想說，要考好LSAT絕非容易的事，當你下定決心要申請J.D.的時候，
就要全心全意準備! LAW SCHOOL（尤其是J.D.）不像其他領域可以用其他東西
補考試成績之不及；所有學校都非常重視LSAT成績（尤其是外國學生，因為他們
不太清楚外國學校GPA的可性度）。還有問題可以PO上版來大家一起討論∼
GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE!
提供給各位我的經驗
先列一下我的條件吧：
LSAT: 172 (99TH PERCENTILE, 去年十月考的)
GPA: 3.98 (台大外文系)
TOEFL: 677 （但是我申請的學校都沒有要求托福成績)
RECOMMENDATIONS: 3 (ALL PROFESSORS IN MY OWN DEPT.)
目前已經申請到的學校（由排名高-->低）：
COLUMBIA (#4), NYU (#5), U CHICAGO (#6), BERKELEY (#9),
DUKE (#10), CORNELL (#12), NORTHWESTERN (#13), GEORGETOWN (#14)
申請學校中只被U PENN REJECT（嗚嗚∼ 不過我知道那是我的錯而且我錯在哪）
目前還在等待TOP THREE學校回應（不過我覺得不太樂觀啦∼）
我從第一次看到LSAT的題目到真正去考只有兩個月，但是我是非常密集的準備喔!
我有補習，但是效果可以說是「非常」不好（我不說補習班名字了啦，
不過台灣只有一家補習班有補LSAT，忠孝東路那家）。可能是因為他們是
唯一的一家吧，他們學費宇宙貴（一週兩次課總共不到兩個月，收3萬塊!!），
而且老師不太專業，問什麼不懂什麼還會亂編。班上的同學程度也不太好，
上課方式主要是講解HOMEWORK題目還有很浪費時間的GROUP DISCUSSION。
他們也有家教啦，但是是同一批老師，而且一小時就2千元!!
基本上我去補只是因為我不認識任何有LSAT相關資料的人，所以只有從那邊
才能得到歷年OFFICIAL TEST的題目。(BY THE WAY, 我這還有很多題庫願意
提供給需要的人，都是歷年OFFICIAL TEST的題目）。
所以!（講到重點了）我給要準備LSAT的同學的建議是：
如果你有三個月以上的準備時間的話，第一個月建議先不要看LSAT的任何
題目，而是多做GRE的分析及閱讀。
這真的很有幫助，因為雖然LSAT閱讀比RE難許多，但是要先練好基本
的閱讀能力才能挑戰更高難度的。至於分析，LSAT和RE的都蠻難的，
但是難的方是不同。RE的每一個小題都是要個別想的，LSAT則是一個大題中
的每一個小題都有密切關連，只要你一想出KEY CONNECTION就幾乎全部都能
快速看出答案。RE是訓練分析能力及速度的基礎，對解LSAT題目有很大幫助。
另外，因為邏輯是LSAT中最最重要的一項，建議多做做GMAT的邏輯題目!!
第二個月開始就要密集做LSAT OFFICIAL TESTS了!不過很重要的是不要
貪多，如每天做一整回題目。最好是隔差不多三天做一回，其間一定一定
要複習以前做過的題目，也要繼續進行RE和AT的練習。
最後一、兩週就要隔天做一回TEST，並同時複習之前的題目。我不斷強調
要複習因為真的非常重要。LSAT題目的答案都長得很像，讓人家不只是
不知道為什麼正確答案是正確的，更糟的是不知道為什麼自己選的答案是錯的。
而且一定要搞懂為什麼你選的答案是對的喔，不要只是瞎猜對了後就不理它，
這樣你的LOGICAL ABILITIES永遠不會增強。
最後我只是想說，要考好LSAT絕非容易的事，當你下定決心要申請J.D.的時候，
就要全心全意準備! LAW SCHOOL（尤其是J.D.）不像其他領域可以用其他東西
補考試成績之不及；所有學校都非常重視LSAT成績（尤其是外國學生，因為他們
不太清楚外國學校GPA的可性度）。還有問題可以PO上版來大家一起討論∼
GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE!
Great Advice on How to Get 160+ on the LSAT...(zabagabe)
1) What score did you get?
166 in June 07
177 in Oct. 08
2) What books did you use? (Kaplan, Powerscore LRB, Powerscore LGB, etc)
Games were never a problem for me (which is ironic, since 2 of the 4 I missed in Oct were on games...), so I had the Powerscore LR Bible and the 2009 Princeton Review and Barron's LSAT books. I only bothered with preptests from the mid-30s to today after making the mistake of studying the mid-20s for the first one (when I got 166).
3) What prep courses did you take (if any)? Full length, weekend?
None. I took a very brief one done by my undergrad, but it was nothing like a full Kaplan (and nothing like the price!). I didn't find it very helpful, to be honest, compared to my self-study. And I did it before the 166, not the 177. Find someone else in your scoring range and practice with them instead, so you can focus just on those questions with which you're struggling.
4) How long did you study for, and under what conditions? (during school, during the summer, etc)
I decided after the 166 (for which I studied only the 2 weeks before the test), I wanted to spend a good 1.5 months. I also had to take the GRE this summer, so I did that first, and then started doing practice tests in late August and about every 3rd day until the actual test, mixed with some specific question tackling.
5) How many preptests did you do?
About 15 in total, although I cannibalized more RC passages from prior tests since that was my weakest area in the modern LSAT format.
6) What would you change if you were to do it again?
For June 2007, I didn't study enough, especially under strict timed conditions. I was surprised how much more nervous I was during the actual test (I had a freak-out in one section, thus the 166), although I had also worked a 70+ hour week the week (and weekend) before the test, so I think that contributed as well...I just didn't feel sharp and focused. I resolved to own it the second time...
I think there were three keys to me getting the 177 on the retake, apart from the usual advice:
1. I practiced with 32 minutes per section instead of 35 for EVERY SINGLE PREPTEST I took. This was the key to my 177. I felt incredibly relaxed in the actual test because I was practicing with a significant handicap. As a result, I was never pressed for time, never anxious about finishing a section, and I breezed through almost everything. I recommend this more than any other piece of advice. I am convinced this is what led to an 11 point jump.
2. In Preptests, I marked a dot on my answer sheets for any questions I was less than 90% sure about. After each test, I went through all my wrong and questionable answers and systematically figured out what why I got them wrong or wasn't sure. I also made a spreadsheet for each type of question to determine which ones I was struggling with. I went through the Powerscore LR Bible and broke down those question types. I am lucky to have an extremely smart boyfriend who also was willing to go through each test with me, which was helpful. Find a friend who likes logic problems (even if they aren't taking the LSAT) and just ask to go through your wrong or questionable answers. Having someone to flesh them out with made a huge, huge difference.
3. Look forward to the LSAT and enter zen mode on test day. Go in excited to ace it! For me, the key was the 32 minutes practice technique, because I knew I was happy with my preptest scores with 32 mins, so why not with 35? Indeed, 177 was the best I've ever gotten on any test. Do yoga, go for a run, whatever it is that gets your game face on. You won't ace the test if you don't believe in yourself. This was a big mental difference between the first time when I feared the test and collapsed under the pressure.
7) Any other misc comments/suggestions.
Having had the 166 experience and the 177 experience, I will say this: don't take the test until you feel really ready. I didn't before the 166 test but took it anyway just to be done with it, and it was stupid. I'm just thankful my retake is sufficiently higher enough to negate it.
166 in June 07
177 in Oct. 08
2) What books did you use? (Kaplan, Powerscore LRB, Powerscore LGB, etc)
Games were never a problem for me (which is ironic, since 2 of the 4 I missed in Oct were on games...), so I had the Powerscore LR Bible and the 2009 Princeton Review and Barron's LSAT books. I only bothered with preptests from the mid-30s to today after making the mistake of studying the mid-20s for the first one (when I got 166).
3) What prep courses did you take (if any)? Full length, weekend?
None. I took a very brief one done by my undergrad, but it was nothing like a full Kaplan (and nothing like the price!). I didn't find it very helpful, to be honest, compared to my self-study. And I did it before the 166, not the 177. Find someone else in your scoring range and practice with them instead, so you can focus just on those questions with which you're struggling.
4) How long did you study for, and under what conditions? (during school, during the summer, etc)
I decided after the 166 (for which I studied only the 2 weeks before the test), I wanted to spend a good 1.5 months. I also had to take the GRE this summer, so I did that first, and then started doing practice tests in late August and about every 3rd day until the actual test, mixed with some specific question tackling.
5) How many preptests did you do?
About 15 in total, although I cannibalized more RC passages from prior tests since that was my weakest area in the modern LSAT format.
6) What would you change if you were to do it again?
For June 2007, I didn't study enough, especially under strict timed conditions. I was surprised how much more nervous I was during the actual test (I had a freak-out in one section, thus the 166), although I had also worked a 70+ hour week the week (and weekend) before the test, so I think that contributed as well...I just didn't feel sharp and focused. I resolved to own it the second time...
I think there were three keys to me getting the 177 on the retake, apart from the usual advice:
1. I practiced with 32 minutes per section instead of 35 for EVERY SINGLE PREPTEST I took. This was the key to my 177. I felt incredibly relaxed in the actual test because I was practicing with a significant handicap. As a result, I was never pressed for time, never anxious about finishing a section, and I breezed through almost everything. I recommend this more than any other piece of advice. I am convinced this is what led to an 11 point jump.
2. In Preptests, I marked a dot on my answer sheets for any questions I was less than 90% sure about. After each test, I went through all my wrong and questionable answers and systematically figured out what why I got them wrong or wasn't sure. I also made a spreadsheet for each type of question to determine which ones I was struggling with. I went through the Powerscore LR Bible and broke down those question types. I am lucky to have an extremely smart boyfriend who also was willing to go through each test with me, which was helpful. Find a friend who likes logic problems (even if they aren't taking the LSAT) and just ask to go through your wrong or questionable answers. Having someone to flesh them out with made a huge, huge difference.
3. Look forward to the LSAT and enter zen mode on test day. Go in excited to ace it! For me, the key was the 32 minutes practice technique, because I knew I was happy with my preptest scores with 32 mins, so why not with 35? Indeed, 177 was the best I've ever gotten on any test. Do yoga, go for a run, whatever it is that gets your game face on. You won't ace the test if you don't believe in yourself. This was a big mental difference between the first time when I feared the test and collapsed under the pressure.
7) Any other misc comments/suggestions.
Having had the 166 experience and the 177 experience, I will say this: don't take the test until you feel really ready. I didn't before the 166 test but took it anyway just to be done with it, and it was stupid. I'm just thankful my retake is sufficiently higher enough to negate it.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Great Advice on How to Get 160+ on the LSAT...(mgm2n)
1) What score did you get?
179
2) What books did you use? (Kaplan, Powerscore LRB, Powerscore LGB, etc)
Two books: The regular Kaplan LSAT book and Kaplan's LSAT 180, plus the Kaplan prep course books (there were maybe five or six of these).
3) What prep courses did you take (if any)? Full length, weekend?
The condensed, 4 week Kaplan course (3.5 hours, 3 nights a week).
4) How long did you study for, and under what conditions? (during school, during the summer, etc)
I studied for about 6 weeks over the summer (took a Sept 30th LSAT), semi-seriously, followed by the 4 week Kaplan course. I spent most of the summer study period familiarizing myself with the different question types & sections, and praciticing Logic Games examples and Logical Reasoning concepts. I found the regular Kaplan book to be useful as an overview and basic starting point.
5) How many preptests did you do?
Four - one diagnostic, and three timed proctored tests via Kaplan.
6) What would you change if you were to do it again?
Judging from other posters, as a general rule I would suggest taking more practice tests than I did. My diagnostic score was a 169 (mind you, I had already studied the basic concepts covered by the test, and had some basic strategies for Logic Games), with subsequent practice test scores increasing up to 179 by the third test.
I did ALL of the Kaplan homework problems, both the endurance drills and timed sections, and spent a lot of time with the LSAT 180 book (esp the Logic Games) even before starting the prep course. My thinking was that if I could master the hardest problems & concepts, then the rest wouldn't be too intimidating. Worked for me, but I could see how this approach might frustrate some who prefer a more systematic, building-block approach to the test.
7) Any other misc comments/suggestions.
- Don't hype it up too much - it's just a test. You've taken thousands of tests over the years & done well - remember that and be confident. It is important to be able to walk into the test and feel calm. Take practice tests until the prospect of the real one doesn't freak you out. For me, four tests was enough. FOr others, it's five times that many - personal preference! Find your magic number.
- A quick word on test day (I refuse to capitalize those two words) fashion: LAYERS. My testing room had a crazy computerized thermostat with a mind of its own, and it was maybe 65 degrees in there - we were all freezing cold. However, I was OK because i had on four layers of clothing (including a hooded sweatshirt, long sleeved thsirt, short sleeved tshirt, and tank top), and long pants. This was in September, too, so a lot of students did not come in dressed for cold. Just be aware that this stuff happens, and you will do a LOT better if you're comfortable
- I have never had much difficulty with Reading Comprehension on standardized tests in the past. The LSAT was an exception - I struggled to complete some of the harder sections at first, running out of time. Learn how to outline passages, and become extremely familiar with the question types asked - it will speed the process tremendously. Don't be afraid to work harder passages either - it will pay off.
**One thing i forgot: As a poster above mentioned, it's a great idea to do a couple of warm-up problems on the morning of the test. I picked out a fairly difficult LG and a few LR questions the day before.
179
2) What books did you use? (Kaplan, Powerscore LRB, Powerscore LGB, etc)
Two books: The regular Kaplan LSAT book and Kaplan's LSAT 180, plus the Kaplan prep course books (there were maybe five or six of these).
3) What prep courses did you take (if any)? Full length, weekend?
The condensed, 4 week Kaplan course (3.5 hours, 3 nights a week).
4) How long did you study for, and under what conditions? (during school, during the summer, etc)
I studied for about 6 weeks over the summer (took a Sept 30th LSAT), semi-seriously, followed by the 4 week Kaplan course. I spent most of the summer study period familiarizing myself with the different question types & sections, and praciticing Logic Games examples and Logical Reasoning concepts. I found the regular Kaplan book to be useful as an overview and basic starting point.
5) How many preptests did you do?
Four - one diagnostic, and three timed proctored tests via Kaplan.
6) What would you change if you were to do it again?
Judging from other posters, as a general rule I would suggest taking more practice tests than I did. My diagnostic score was a 169 (mind you, I had already studied the basic concepts covered by the test, and had some basic strategies for Logic Games), with subsequent practice test scores increasing up to 179 by the third test.
I did ALL of the Kaplan homework problems, both the endurance drills and timed sections, and spent a lot of time with the LSAT 180 book (esp the Logic Games) even before starting the prep course. My thinking was that if I could master the hardest problems & concepts, then the rest wouldn't be too intimidating. Worked for me, but I could see how this approach might frustrate some who prefer a more systematic, building-block approach to the test.
7) Any other misc comments/suggestions.
- Don't hype it up too much - it's just a test. You've taken thousands of tests over the years & done well - remember that and be confident. It is important to be able to walk into the test and feel calm. Take practice tests until the prospect of the real one doesn't freak you out. For me, four tests was enough. FOr others, it's five times that many - personal preference! Find your magic number.
- A quick word on test day (I refuse to capitalize those two words) fashion: LAYERS. My testing room had a crazy computerized thermostat with a mind of its own, and it was maybe 65 degrees in there - we were all freezing cold. However, I was OK because i had on four layers of clothing (including a hooded sweatshirt, long sleeved thsirt, short sleeved tshirt, and tank top), and long pants. This was in September, too, so a lot of students did not come in dressed for cold. Just be aware that this stuff happens, and you will do a LOT better if you're comfortable
- I have never had much difficulty with Reading Comprehension on standardized tests in the past. The LSAT was an exception - I struggled to complete some of the harder sections at first, running out of time. Learn how to outline passages, and become extremely familiar with the question types asked - it will speed the process tremendously. Don't be afraid to work harder passages either - it will pay off.
**One thing i forgot: As a poster above mentioned, it's a great idea to do a couple of warm-up problems on the morning of the test. I picked out a fairly difficult LG and a few LR questions the day before.
Don't Lose the Original Passion
Tonight I played game cards with Maxy at a neighboring tea shop.
He decided to go to cram school this weeken to take the Government exam, and I'm so glad to have a study parner.
We talked a lot, at the end I told him that I want to be a better person, in all aspects such as the academic, job, friendship an love. I hope I can remember what I said tonight--the best way is being better, and don't let anyone look down on me aymore.
It's difficult; it's worthy.
He decided to go to cram school this weeken to take the Government exam, and I'm so glad to have a study parner.
We talked a lot, at the end I told him that I want to be a better person, in all aspects such as the academic, job, friendship an love. I hope I can remember what I said tonight--the best way is being better, and don't let anyone look down on me aymore.
It's difficult; it's worthy.
最後今天
楊千嬅
最後今天
作曲： 陳浩賢
填詞： 黃仲凱
編曲： 陳台證
今天要 打烊了
賣光了友善微笑 沒資格繼續纏繞
燈熄了 我應該走了
疲弱的心跳 每天送迎著你 休息得太少
即使再難服氣 也未似有驚喜
這三角太完美
賺不到愛情 何以繼續送死
原來很無謂 招呼你一世
我這麼愛人換來沒有關係
委曲對著你 你只是循例
才輸得真徹底
原來很無謂 敷衍我一世
愛這種愛人越挨越見鬼
今天只想放低 結束感情未墊底
這不算甚麼的末世
早該要 心息了
換不到正場門票 害苦了歲月燃燒
清醒了 我心魔死了
殘舊的哭笑 這麼沒完沒了 等不到破曉
終於碰完運氣 證實沒法凄美
只傷透了元氣
望不見遠地 何以繼續送死
原來很無謂 招呼你一世
我這麼愛人換來沒有關係
委曲對著你 你只是循例
才輸得真徹底
原來很無謂 敷衍我一世
愛這種愛人越挨越見鬼
今天只想放低 結束感情未墊底
再不要在暗角自毀
放下你 回復我本來那一切
原來很無謂 招呼你一世
我這麼愛人換來沒有關係
當看著你 背影在流逝
只等於目送一切
多一點流麗 多半滴矜貴
無謂眷戀燦爛餘暉
今天終於放低 我的感情受了洗
送給你昨天的謝禮
Monday, February 9, 2009
Great Advice on How to Get 160+ on the LSAT...(180Splitter)
1) What score did you get?
180.
2) What books did you use? (Kaplan, Powerscore LRB, Powerscore LGB, etc)
I started with Kaplan Complete (very incomplete, but simple and a decent introduction to the lsat) and the Kaplan logic games book (an OK book). I then studied the Kaplan 180 book (the logical reasoning section is a total waste but the games are good practice and the reading comp is OK). After that, I took ~25 practice tests and reviewed every problem I missed at *great* length but my score was fluctuating wildly all over the 170's so I buckled down and took Blueprint. Blueprint helped me by giving me methods to more quickly answer questions I was already getting right so I had lots of time for hard questions. It also helped me focus and kept me doing a lot of practice problems.
3) What prep courses did you take (if any)? Full length, weekend?
Blueprint full length.
4) How long did you study for, and under what conditions? (during school, during the summer, etc)
I studied during the summer on my own and then took blueprint full time, doing most of the homework.
5) How many preptests did you do?
Around 30 total, ~25 on my own and ~5 with Blueprint.
6) What would you change if you were to do it again?
I would have taken blueprint from the beginning and added a fake experimental section before every practice test to replicate real conditions. I only did that occasionally. On some practice tests, I checked my answers after every section (giving myself a small break). Not surprisingly, I did better than average on those! Practice tests really ought to resemble the real thing in every way.
7) Any other misc comments/suggestions.
Preparing for the LSAT tests not just your intelligence, but your character. Do you have the integrity to never, ever stop reviewing every question you missed until you understand why you missed it and will never miss a similar question again? Will you be honest with yourself and take practice tests under realistic conditions, with three sections in a row, followed by a short break and two sections? Do you take the time to bubble in the answers as part of your 35 minutes per section? You aren't giving yourself extra time, right? Right!
The week before the test, I got up at the same time I would on test day and ate breakfast.
The day before the test, I drove the route to the testing center as if it were the day of the test. I went to a room at the center and sat down in a chair, and thought about coming in the next day and getting a 180.
I don't drink caffeine and didn't before the test. I did pack a survival kit with many pencils, sharpeners, Powerade, and Snickers marathon bars.
You too can do well on the LSAT. Take it seriously, as your best score will get you into a better school than your mediocre score or get you scholarships where you were already planning on going.
180.
2) What books did you use? (Kaplan, Powerscore LRB, Powerscore LGB, etc)
I started with Kaplan Complete (very incomplete, but simple and a decent introduction to the lsat) and the Kaplan logic games book (an OK book). I then studied the Kaplan 180 book (the logical reasoning section is a total waste but the games are good practice and the reading comp is OK). After that, I took ~25 practice tests and reviewed every problem I missed at *great* length but my score was fluctuating wildly all over the 170's so I buckled down and took Blueprint. Blueprint helped me by giving me methods to more quickly answer questions I was already getting right so I had lots of time for hard questions. It also helped me focus and kept me doing a lot of practice problems.
3) What prep courses did you take (if any)? Full length, weekend?
Blueprint full length.
4) How long did you study for, and under what conditions? (during school, during the summer, etc)
I studied during the summer on my own and then took blueprint full time, doing most of the homework.
5) How many preptests did you do?
Around 30 total, ~25 on my own and ~5 with Blueprint.
6) What would you change if you were to do it again?
I would have taken blueprint from the beginning and added a fake experimental section before every practice test to replicate real conditions. I only did that occasionally. On some practice tests, I checked my answers after every section (giving myself a small break). Not surprisingly, I did better than average on those! Practice tests really ought to resemble the real thing in every way.
7) Any other misc comments/suggestions.
Preparing for the LSAT tests not just your intelligence, but your character. Do you have the integrity to never, ever stop reviewing every question you missed until you understand why you missed it and will never miss a similar question again? Will you be honest with yourself and take practice tests under realistic conditions, with three sections in a row, followed by a short break and two sections? Do you take the time to bubble in the answers as part of your 35 minutes per section? You aren't giving yourself extra time, right? Right!
The week before the test, I got up at the same time I would on test day and ate breakfast.
The day before the test, I drove the route to the testing center as if it were the day of the test. I went to a room at the center and sat down in a chair, and thought about coming in the next day and getting a 180.
I don't drink caffeine and didn't before the test. I did pack a survival kit with many pencils, sharpeners, Powerade, and Snickers marathon bars.
You too can do well on the LSAT. Take it seriously, as your best score will get you into a better school than your mediocre score or get you scholarships where you were already planning on going.
Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa
Alex the Lion :
You've been a great friend.
You've helped me so often to see the bright side of my problems that I never think of you having any.
I wasn't there for you when you needed me.
Just like back at the zoo.
What kind of friend does that make me?
A pretty lousy friend, I guess.
I just want you to know that I...
You're one in a million.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Melman the Giraffe :
I'm dying anyway. If there's a chance it'll get you water, it's worth it.
Gloria the Hippo :
Are you nuts?
Melman the Giraffe :
I want you to know, back at the zoo, it was never the doctors or prescriptions that kept me going.
It was always you.
Seeing you every day.
That's what kept me going.
我真的受傷了
張學友/王菀之
我真的受傷了
作曲：王菀之
填詞：王菀之
編曲：伍仲衡
燈光也暗了 音樂低聲了
口中的棉花糖也融化了
窗外陰天了 人是無聊了
我的心開始想你了
*電話響起了 你要說話了
還以為你心裡對我又想念了
怎麼你聲音變得冷淡了
是你變了 是你變了
燈光熄滅了 音樂靜止了
滴下的眼淚已停不住了
天下起雨了 人是不快樂
我的心真的受傷了
Repeat *
我的心真的受傷了
我真的受傷了
作曲：王菀之
填詞：王菀之
編曲：伍仲衡
燈光也暗了 音樂低聲了
口中的棉花糖也融化了
窗外陰天了 人是無聊了
我的心開始想你了
*電話響起了 你要說話了
還以為你心裡對我又想念了
怎麼你聲音變得冷淡了
是你變了 是你變了
燈光熄滅了 音樂靜止了
滴下的眼淚已停不住了
天下起雨了 人是不快樂
我的心真的受傷了
Repeat *
我的心真的受傷了
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Pithypike's Complete LSAT Study Guide
You will need:
Kaplan Mastery (Kaplan's Big Orange Book is no longer available)
Powerscore Logic Games Bible
Powerscore Logical Reasoning Bible
All 3 of the '10 More LSAT" series
PTs 45-54 (10)
Official LSAT SuperPrep
3 months (more or less - adjust to your rate of progress but do not try to cram)
LG:
You will need to divide LG into specific types (Grouping, Linear, and various subtypes) and work on them one after another in order to master the game type.
1) Make 3 photocopies of every LG
2) Separate them using the classification method of choice - Blueprint, Kaplan, etc. will all work but I prefer Powerscore
3) Do each LGB section in order and work on the respective game types as you progress. For this I usually do 2-3 new games and 3 repeats every day, but it doesn't matter as long as you get it done. Try to keep some separation (24 hours+) between the first and second time you attempt a game.
Repetition is crucial - after you have done a lot of games a lot of times anything they throw at you will seem elementary and routine.
LR:
Pretty simple really. Do the appropriate LRB section and then work through the corresponding chapter in Kaplan Mastery/Big Orange Book. I generally reviewed the LRB section thoroughly the first time, and then just read the summary of points and strategies at the start of the question set to refresh myself after that. Do up to 10 problems at each sitting and monitor which question types give you the most trouble. Review those questions heavily. If you're really motivated, cut out particularly troublesome questions for later review. I found that writing out explanations for question types I struggled with helped immensely.
RC:
This is the most difficult section to improve on. You have to develop a feel for what the passage as a whole is conveying while making sure not to miss small details that you could be tested on. I suggest developing a set of symbols that help you refer to specific points in the passage. For example, I place a 'C' next to the line in which a critical viewpoint is mentioned and underline the part of the passage indicating this viewpoint is critical. It doesn't matter what you use, as long as it helps you refer back to the passage. Many people suggest writing short summaries at the end of each paragraph, which can also be effective.
The only surefire way to improve on RC is to do as many as possible and develop your own personal system as you progress. Reading dense material, like science journals, The Economist, etc. can help as well, but working through as many passages is possible is undoubtedly the most effective tool. I can't vouch for the RC Bible as I never used it, but if it is comparable in quality to the LG and LR Bibles I would imagine it is a useful tool.
Month 1:
LG: (# of game type through PT 44-Powerscore Classification)
Basic Linear - Balanced (23)
Basic Linear - Overloaded (5)
Basic Linear - Underfunded (5)
Advanced Linear - Balanced (25)
Advanced Linear - Overloaded (4)
Advanced Linear - Underfunded (7)
Write down the exact time and your score at the top of each LG. Push yourself to finish faster the next 2 times you complete that LG. DO NOT sacrifice speed for accuracy though.
LR:
Follow the guide set out above for these question types
Assumption
Strengthen/Weaken
Flaw
RC:
Complete all 10 RC sections from the first '10 LSAT' book (untimed)
Three-Day Cycle:
1) RC Section
2) Review
3) Review
Remember, you have to be focusing on developing your own method for identifying relevant sections of the passage. When reviewing wrong answers, focus on what referents or symbols would have helped you find the correct answer within the passage. When reviewing correct answers, look for what helped you pick that choice out and find out what strategies are effective. This is just as important as reviewing wrong answers.
At this end of this month take PrepTest 'A' from the SuperPrep series - timed. Review the test heavily and read the explanation for every single question, not just the ones you got wrong. Hearing it straight from the horse's mouth can often be very useful and helps you get in the test maker's head.
Month 2
LG:
Grouping - Defined - Fixed - Balanced (10)
Grouping - Defined - Fixed - Overloaded (11)
Grouping - Defined - Fixed - Underfuned (5)
Grouping - Defined - Moving - Balanced (14)
Grouping - Defined - Moving - Overloaded (2)
Grouping - Partially Defined (9)
Grouping - Undefined (6)
Rare Game Types:
Grouping/Linear Combination (8)
Pattern Games (6)
Pure Sequencing (6) Note-much more common in modern games - pay attention
Mapping (3)
Circular Linearity (2)
LR:
Inference
Principle
Parallel
Paradox
Method of Argument
Main Point
Role of a Statement
Point at Issue
You should take at least 10, maybe a few more, timed LR sections during this month to start getting comfortable with timing. Continue to develop endurance and pacing. By the end of this month you should have an established and effective pacing system, i.e. 15 mins/15 questions. Do not be complacent. If you are finishing the section within 35 minutes consistently, knock off a few minutes and see how you do under pressure. You will likely be feeling a bit of pressure and nerves on test day, and this (+ studying in noisy conditions) can help mitigate any test day drop.
Don't use any of the SuperPrep tests or any test beyond 44, as you will be taking these in their entirety.
RC:
10 timed sections from the most recent '10 LSAT' book you bought. Use the same three day routine for month 1. Continue to develop your style of marking passages. Same story for RC as LR-if you're finishing comfortably shave off a few minutes.
During this month you should take PrepTest 'B' and 'C' (both timed) and review them heavily. I suggest taking B in the middle of the month and C at the end.
Month 3:
During this month you will focus exclusively on full , 5-section PrepTests.
Make 3 photocopies of each LG type for these tests as well. The style of games changed significantly after the June 2005 exam, and it is beneficial to repeat these newer LGs to get a feel for the new ways of phrasing rules and various other differences versus older games. Note: while new LG are easier, it is best to practice with the older ones so that you can truly master the appropriate concepts and be prepared for whatever they throw at you on test day.
Take PTs 45-54, in whatever order you prefer. Since the real exam will be 5 sections, you should add a fifth section (whichever you are weakest on) from older exams both to provide you with extra material and to build up endurance for the real thing.
Repeat this cycle:
1) PT
2) Review
3) Review
Until you have done all ten PTs. On the review days, redo the LGs and monitor which types of questions are tripping you up. Review the Bibles as needed.
Here's what another poster had to say on PT improvement and working toward test day:
lollypotter wrote:
Rather than thinking of the LSAT as 30 prep tests to be gotten through, think of it as weaknesses to be eliminated. Every test is a snapshot of your weaknesses and you MUST address them. Going over the tests is crucial. DO NOT DO MULTIPLE TESTS without review. This is a waste of time and tests. The review is the part most people don't do. They rely on familiarity. They improve (on PTs) but in the cold light of the official test they panic, and then they start guessing. That's how people score crazily below their prep test average.
Lolly's right. Eliminate weaknesses, make everything second nature and let your instincts take over on test day. It's a rare tester who doesn't feel a bit of nerves during the real thing, so it is VITAL you hone these concepts until they are second nature.
HTH
Edits:
Link to T14's gametype classification (PS Method)
http://www.top-law-schools.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=50657&p=1042536&hilit=pithypike#p1042536
Link to Kaplan Mastery on Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/Kaplan-Mastery-Pr
Voyager's RC Guide
http://www.top-law-schools.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=7240
LSATinator's Guide to Time Management
http://www.top-law-schools.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=35546&hilit=lsatinator+time+management
PowerScore Games Classification June 2003 -- Present
http://powerscore.com/gamesbible/content_game_info.cfm
Link to Useful LSD LSAT Prep Thread
http://www.lawschooldiscussion.org/prelaw/index.php/topic,4012881.0.html
.
Kaplan Mastery (Kaplan's Big Orange Book is no longer available)
Powerscore Logic Games Bible
Powerscore Logical Reasoning Bible
All 3 of the '10 More LSAT" series
PTs 45-54 (10)
Official LSAT SuperPrep
3 months (more or less - adjust to your rate of progress but do not try to cram)
LG:
You will need to divide LG into specific types (Grouping, Linear, and various subtypes) and work on them one after another in order to master the game type.
1) Make 3 photocopies of every LG
2) Separate them using the classification method of choice - Blueprint, Kaplan, etc. will all work but I prefer Powerscore
3) Do each LGB section in order and work on the respective game types as you progress. For this I usually do 2-3 new games and 3 repeats every day, but it doesn't matter as long as you get it done. Try to keep some separation (24 hours+) between the first and second time you attempt a game.
Repetition is crucial - after you have done a lot of games a lot of times anything they throw at you will seem elementary and routine.
LR:
Pretty simple really. Do the appropriate LRB section and then work through the corresponding chapter in Kaplan Mastery/Big Orange Book. I generally reviewed the LRB section thoroughly the first time, and then just read the summary of points and strategies at the start of the question set to refresh myself after that. Do up to 10 problems at each sitting and monitor which question types give you the most trouble. Review those questions heavily. If you're really motivated, cut out particularly troublesome questions for later review. I found that writing out explanations for question types I struggled with helped immensely.
RC:
This is the most difficult section to improve on. You have to develop a feel for what the passage as a whole is conveying while making sure not to miss small details that you could be tested on. I suggest developing a set of symbols that help you refer to specific points in the passage. For example, I place a 'C' next to the line in which a critical viewpoint is mentioned and underline the part of the passage indicating this viewpoint is critical. It doesn't matter what you use, as long as it helps you refer back to the passage. Many people suggest writing short summaries at the end of each paragraph, which can also be effective.
The only surefire way to improve on RC is to do as many as possible and develop your own personal system as you progress. Reading dense material, like science journals, The Economist, etc. can help as well, but working through as many passages is possible is undoubtedly the most effective tool. I can't vouch for the RC Bible as I never used it, but if it is comparable in quality to the LG and LR Bibles I would imagine it is a useful tool.
Month 1:
LG: (# of game type through PT 44-Powerscore Classification)
Basic Linear - Balanced (23)
Basic Linear - Overloaded (5)
Basic Linear - Underfunded (5)
Advanced Linear - Balanced (25)
Advanced Linear - Overloaded (4)
Advanced Linear - Underfunded (7)
Write down the exact time and your score at the top of each LG. Push yourself to finish faster the next 2 times you complete that LG. DO NOT sacrifice speed for accuracy though.
LR:
Follow the guide set out above for these question types
Assumption
Strengthen/Weaken
Flaw
RC:
Complete all 10 RC sections from the first '10 LSAT' book (untimed)
Three-Day Cycle:
1) RC Section
2) Review
3) Review
Remember, you have to be focusing on developing your own method for identifying relevant sections of the passage. When reviewing wrong answers, focus on what referents or symbols would have helped you find the correct answer within the passage. When reviewing correct answers, look for what helped you pick that choice out and find out what strategies are effective. This is just as important as reviewing wrong answers.
At this end of this month take PrepTest 'A' from the SuperPrep series - timed. Review the test heavily and read the explanation for every single question, not just the ones you got wrong. Hearing it straight from the horse's mouth can often be very useful and helps you get in the test maker's head.
Month 2
LG:
Grouping - Defined - Fixed - Balanced (10)
Grouping - Defined - Fixed - Overloaded (11)
Grouping - Defined - Fixed - Underfuned (5)
Grouping - Defined - Moving - Balanced (14)
Grouping - Defined - Moving - Overloaded (2)
Grouping - Partially Defined (9)
Grouping - Undefined (6)
Rare Game Types:
Grouping/Linear Combination (8)
Pattern Games (6)
Pure Sequencing (6) Note-much more common in modern games - pay attention
Mapping (3)
Circular Linearity (2)
LR:
Inference
Principle
Parallel
Paradox
Method of Argument
Main Point
Role of a Statement
Point at Issue
You should take at least 10, maybe a few more, timed LR sections during this month to start getting comfortable with timing. Continue to develop endurance and pacing. By the end of this month you should have an established and effective pacing system, i.e. 15 mins/15 questions. Do not be complacent. If you are finishing the section within 35 minutes consistently, knock off a few minutes and see how you do under pressure. You will likely be feeling a bit of pressure and nerves on test day, and this (+ studying in noisy conditions) can help mitigate any test day drop.
Don't use any of the SuperPrep tests or any test beyond 44, as you will be taking these in their entirety.
RC:
10 timed sections from the most recent '10 LSAT' book you bought. Use the same three day routine for month 1. Continue to develop your style of marking passages. Same story for RC as LR-if you're finishing comfortably shave off a few minutes.
During this month you should take PrepTest 'B' and 'C' (both timed) and review them heavily. I suggest taking B in the middle of the month and C at the end.
Month 3:
During this month you will focus exclusively on full , 5-section PrepTests.
Make 3 photocopies of each LG type for these tests as well. The style of games changed significantly after the June 2005 exam, and it is beneficial to repeat these newer LGs to get a feel for the new ways of phrasing rules and various other differences versus older games. Note: while new LG are easier, it is best to practice with the older ones so that you can truly master the appropriate concepts and be prepared for whatever they throw at you on test day.
Take PTs 45-54, in whatever order you prefer. Since the real exam will be 5 sections, you should add a fifth section (whichever you are weakest on) from older exams both to provide you with extra material and to build up endurance for the real thing.
Repeat this cycle:
1) PT
2) Review
3) Review
Until you have done all ten PTs. On the review days, redo the LGs and monitor which types of questions are tripping you up. Review the Bibles as needed.
Here's what another poster had to say on PT improvement and working toward test day:
lollypotter wrote:
Rather than thinking of the LSAT as 30 prep tests to be gotten through, think of it as weaknesses to be eliminated. Every test is a snapshot of your weaknesses and you MUST address them. Going over the tests is crucial. DO NOT DO MULTIPLE TESTS without review. This is a waste of time and tests. The review is the part most people don't do. They rely on familiarity. They improve (on PTs) but in the cold light of the official test they panic, and then they start guessing. That's how people score crazily below their prep test average.
Lolly's right. Eliminate weaknesses, make everything second nature and let your instincts take over on test day. It's a rare tester who doesn't feel a bit of nerves during the real thing, so it is VITAL you hone these concepts until they are second nature.
HTH
Edits:
Link to T14's gametype classification (PS Method)
http://www.top-law-schools.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=50657&p=1042536&hilit=pithypike#p1042536
Link to Kaplan Mastery on Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/Kaplan-Mastery-Pr
Voyager's RC Guide
http://www.top-law-schools.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=7240
LSATinator's Guide to Time Management
http://www.top-law-schools.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=35546&hilit=lsatinator+time+management
PowerScore Games Classification June 2003 -- Present
http://powerscore.com/gamesbible/content_game_info.cfm
Link to Useful LSD LSAT Prep Thread
http://www.lawschooldiscussion.org/prelaw/index.php/topic,4012881.0.html
.
Harvard Library Study Room Wall VTC Statement
1. This moment will nap, you will have a dream; But this moment study,you will interpret a dream.
2. I leave uncultivated today, was precisely yesterday perishestomorrow which person of the body implored.
3. Thought is already is late, exactly is the earliest time.
4. Not matter of the today will drag tomorrow.
5. Time the study pain is temporary, has not learned the pain islife-long.
6. Studies this matter, lacks the time, but is lacks diligently.
7. Perhaps happiness does not arrange the position, but succeeds mustarrange the position.
8. The study certainly is not the life complete. But, sincecontinually life part of - studies also is unable to conquer, what butalso can make?
9. Please enjoy the pain which is unable to avoid.
10. Only has compared to the others early, diligently diligently, canfeel the successful taste.
11. Nobody can casually succeed, it comes from the thoroughself-control and the will.
12. The time is passing.
13. Now drips the saliva, will become tomorrow the tear.
14. The dog equally study, the gentleman equally plays.
15. Today does not walk, will have to run tomorrow.
16. The investment future person will be, will be loyal to the realityperson.
17. The education level represents the income.
18. One day, has not been able again to come.
19. Even if the present, the match does not stop changes the page.
20. Has not been difficult, then does not have attains
Saturday, February 7, 2009
I'm Yours
Jason Mraz
I'm Yours
Well, you done done me and you bet I felt it
I tried to be chill but your so hot that I melted
I fell right through the cracks, now I'm tryin to get back
before the cool done run out I'll be givin it my best test
and nothin's gonna stop me but divine intervention
I reckon it's again my turn to win some or learn some
But I won't hesitate no more,
no more, it cannot wait
I'm yours
Well open up your mind and see like me
open up your plans and damn you're free
look into your heart and you'll find love love love love
listen to the music of the moment people dance and sing
We're just one big family
And it's our godforsaken right to be loved loved loved loved loved
So, i won't hesitate no more,
no more, it cannot wait i'm sure
there's no need to complicate our time is short
this is our fate
I'm yours
Scooch on over closer, dear
And I will nibble your ear
I've been spendin' way too long checkin' my tongue in the mirror
and bendin' over backwards just to try to see it clearer
But my breath fogged up the glass
and so I drew a new face and I laughed
I guess what I'd be sayin' is there ain't no better reason
to rid yourself of vanities and just go with the seasons
it's what we aim to do
our name is our virtue
But I won't hesitate no more,
no more it cannot wait
I'm yours
Well open up your mind and see like me
open up your plans and damn you're free
look into your heart and you will find that the sky is yours
so please don't, please don't, please don't,
there's no need to complicate,
Cause our time is short
This, this, this is our fate,
I'm yours
I'm Yours
Well, you done done me and you bet I felt it
I tried to be chill but your so hot that I melted
I fell right through the cracks, now I'm tryin to get back
before the cool done run out I'll be givin it my best test
and nothin's gonna stop me but divine intervention
I reckon it's again my turn to win some or learn some
But I won't hesitate no more,
no more, it cannot wait
I'm yours
Well open up your mind and see like me
open up your plans and damn you're free
look into your heart and you'll find love love love love
listen to the music of the moment people dance and sing
We're just one big family
And it's our godforsaken right to be loved loved loved loved loved
So, i won't hesitate no more,
no more, it cannot wait i'm sure
there's no need to complicate our time is short
this is our fate
I'm yours
Scooch on over closer, dear
And I will nibble your ear
I've been spendin' way too long checkin' my tongue in the mirror
and bendin' over backwards just to try to see it clearer
But my breath fogged up the glass
and so I drew a new face and I laughed
I guess what I'd be sayin' is there ain't no better reason
to rid yourself of vanities and just go with the seasons
it's what we aim to do
our name is our virtue
But I won't hesitate no more,
no more it cannot wait
I'm yours
Well open up your mind and see like me
open up your plans and damn you're free
look into your heart and you will find that the sky is yours
so please don't, please don't, please don't,
there's no need to complicate,
Cause our time is short
This, this, this is our fate,
I'm yours
Eyes on Me
王菲
Eyes on Me (featured in FF8)
Whenever sang my songs
On the stage, on my own
Whenever said my words
Wishing they would be heard
I saw you smiling at me
Was it real or just my fantasy
You'd always be there in the corner
Of this tiny little bar
My last night here for you
Same old songs, just once more
My last night here with you?
Maybe yes, maybe no
I kind of liked it your way
How you shyly placed your eyes on me
Oh, did you ever know?
That I had mine on you
Darling, so there you are
With that look on your face
As if you're never hurt
As if you're never down
Shall I be the one for you
Who pinches you softly but sure
If frown is shown then
I will know that you are no dreamer
So let me come to you
Close as I wanted to be
Close enough for me
To feel your heart beating fast
And stay there as I whisper
How I loved your peaceful eyes on me
did you ever know
That I had mine on you
Darling, so share with me
Your love if you have enough
Your tears if your're holding back
Or pain if that's what it is
How can I let you know
I'm more than the dress and the voice
Just reach me out then
You will know that you're not dreaming
Darling, so there you are
With that look on your face
As if you're never hurt
As if you're never down
Shall I be the one for you
Who pinches you softly but sure
If frown is shown then
I will know that you are no dreamer
Eyes on Me (featured in FF8)
Whenever sang my songs
On the stage, on my own
Whenever said my words
Wishing they would be heard
I saw you smiling at me
Was it real or just my fantasy
You'd always be there in the corner
Of this tiny little bar
My last night here for you
Same old songs, just once more
My last night here with you?
Maybe yes, maybe no
I kind of liked it your way
How you shyly placed your eyes on me
Oh, did you ever know?
That I had mine on you
Darling, so there you are
With that look on your face
As if you're never hurt
As if you're never down
Shall I be the one for you
Who pinches you softly but sure
If frown is shown then
I will know that you are no dreamer
So let me come to you
Close as I wanted to be
Close enough for me
To feel your heart beating fast
And stay there as I whisper
How I loved your peaceful eyes on me
did you ever know
That I had mine on you
Darling, so share with me
Your love if you have enough
Your tears if your're holding back
Or pain if that's what it is
How can I let you know
I'm more than the dress and the voice
Just reach me out then
You will know that you're not dreaming
Darling, so there you are
With that look on your face
As if you're never hurt
As if you're never down
Shall I be the one for you
Who pinches you softly but sure
If frown is shown then
I will know that you are no dreamer
Thursday, February 5, 2009
綿綿
陳奕迅
綿綿
作曲：柳重言
作詞：林夕
編曲：王雙駿
和你也許不會再相擁
大概你的體重 會抱我造夢
從前為了不想失約 連病都不敢痛
到哪一天 才回想起 我蠢
和你也許不會再通宵坐到咖啡酸了 喝也喝不掉
從前為你捨得無聊 寧願休息不要
談論連場大雨你窗台漏水 不得了
從來未愛你 綿綿
可惜我愛懷念 尤其是代我傷心的唱片
從來未愛你 但永遠為任何人奉獻
從沒細心數清楚 一個夏雨天
一次愉快的睡眠 斷多少的髮線
和你也許不會再擁抱 待你我都蒼老
散半里的步 前塵就似輕於鴻毛
提及心底苦惱 如像自言自語說他人是非 多麼好
從來未愛你 綿綿
可惜我愛懷念 尤其是代我傷心的唱片
從來未愛你 但永遠為任何人奉獻
從來沒細心數清楚 一個夏雨天
一次愉快的睡眠 斷多少髮線
從來未愛你 只喜愛跟一顆心血戰
亦懷念那些吸不透的香煙
從來未愛你 只喜愛共萬人迷遇見
從來沒細心數清楚 一個夏雨天
一次愉快的入眠 斷多少髮線
「綿綿，如果我重新開始約會你，會不會很古怪？」
「古怪？有什麼古怪？老朋友出來走走，稀奇嗎？」
「不，」我衝口而出，真情流露，「不是老朋友，而是新朋友，綿綿，你不反對？」
她沉默一會兒。我心跳地等待。
然後是她充滿喜悅的聲音：「不，我不反對。」
我整個人飄起來，這四個字的力量大得無以復加。
呵感情，奇怪的東西，可以令人在零下十三度的天氣裡旅行兩千哩。
使人情緒高漲，使人彷徨低落。
我說：「謝謝你，綿綿，我們明天見。」
「明天見。」她說，「早點睡。」
我會的，因為我已見到了美麗的開始。
~亦舒, 重逢
綿綿
作曲：柳重言
作詞：林夕
編曲：王雙駿
和你也許不會再相擁
大概你的體重 會抱我造夢
從前為了不想失約 連病都不敢痛
到哪一天 才回想起 我蠢
和你也許不會再通宵坐到咖啡酸了 喝也喝不掉
從前為你捨得無聊 寧願休息不要
談論連場大雨你窗台漏水 不得了
從來未愛你 綿綿
可惜我愛懷念 尤其是代我傷心的唱片
從來未愛你 但永遠為任何人奉獻
從沒細心數清楚 一個夏雨天
一次愉快的睡眠 斷多少的髮線
和你也許不會再擁抱 待你我都蒼老
散半里的步 前塵就似輕於鴻毛
提及心底苦惱 如像自言自語說他人是非 多麼好
從來未愛你 綿綿
可惜我愛懷念 尤其是代我傷心的唱片
從來未愛你 但永遠為任何人奉獻
從來沒細心數清楚 一個夏雨天
一次愉快的睡眠 斷多少髮線
從來未愛你 只喜愛跟一顆心血戰
亦懷念那些吸不透的香煙
從來未愛你 只喜愛共萬人迷遇見
從來沒細心數清楚 一個夏雨天
一次愉快的入眠 斷多少髮線
「綿綿，如果我重新開始約會你，會不會很古怪？」
「古怪？有什麼古怪？老朋友出來走走，稀奇嗎？」
「不，」我衝口而出，真情流露，「不是老朋友，而是新朋友，綿綿，你不反對？」
她沉默一會兒。我心跳地等待。
然後是她充滿喜悅的聲音：「不，我不反對。」
我整個人飄起來，這四個字的力量大得無以復加。
呵感情，奇怪的東西，可以令人在零下十三度的天氣裡旅行兩千哩。
使人情緒高漲，使人彷徨低落。
我說：「謝謝你，綿綿，我們明天見。」
「明天見。」她說，「早點睡。」
我會的，因為我已見到了美麗的開始。
~亦舒, 重逢
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
The Best Is Yet to Come
林一峰
The Best Is Yet To Come
曲：林一峰
詞：林一峰
編：李端嫻/人山人海
永遠有一個吻未嘗 有些燭光未燃亮
若愛太苦要落糖 結它斷線亦無恙
To hug someone to kiss someone
The best is yet to come
若要錯失永不能守 得到也不代表長久
假使快樂有盡頭 痛苦也未會不朽
寂寞半點假如不能承受 這生命注定過得不易
笑與淚 亦有時候
To hug someone to kiss someone
The best is yet to come
若你說不再聽情歌 不想再經歷這漩渦
假使抱住你拳頭 到底也沒法牽手
就是為了追求一時平靜 將感情隔離半點感動都扼殺
沒法承受 永遠有不妥協傷口 有些憾事不放手
若你太刻意淡忘 越會補不到缺口
Why don't you just hug soneone just kiss someone
The best is yet to come
最好的尚未來臨
The Best Is Yet To Come
曲：林一峰
詞：林一峰
編：李端嫻/人山人海
永遠有一個吻未嘗 有些燭光未燃亮
若愛太苦要落糖 結它斷線亦無恙
To hug someone to kiss someone
The best is yet to come
若要錯失永不能守 得到也不代表長久
假使快樂有盡頭 痛苦也未會不朽
寂寞半點假如不能承受 這生命注定過得不易
笑與淚 亦有時候
To hug someone to kiss someone
The best is yet to come
若你說不再聽情歌 不想再經歷這漩渦
假使抱住你拳頭 到底也沒法牽手
就是為了追求一時平靜 將感情隔離半點感動都扼殺
沒法承受 永遠有不妥協傷口 有些憾事不放手
若你太刻意淡忘 越會補不到缺口
Why don't you just hug soneone just kiss someone
The best is yet to come
最好的尚未來臨
Aren’t You Glad
陳奕迅
Aren't You Glad
作詞/作曲：Russell Harris
編曲：劉志遠
製作：Jim Lee
Aren't you glad you didn't stay with me
Bohemian life and instability
You went off to university
And you took your love away from me
Endless nights, lovers, friends and fun
Big-City lights, your new life had begun
＊And as the world turns on and on
Love is lost and love is won,
laughed and cried when we were young
You went your own way. I survived
And did you ever see everything inside of me?＊
So now you live your life in luxury
Double glazing, turbo washing machine
And your fiance is boring as hell
You never laugh, you’re both professional
You know that film. That I'd started to write?
It's a box-office smash, I'm on the next flight
To get my award on TV tonight
Looking back, I think I've done alright
REEPAT＊＊
Oh, aren't you glad you didn't stay.
Oh aren't you glad you didn't stay with me?
Oh, aren't you glad you didn't stay with me?
You didn't want my love,
So aren’t you glad, aren't you glad, aren't you glad?
Aren't you glad, aren't you glad,
Aren't you glad, aren't you glad
Aren't You Glad
作詞/作曲：Russell Harris
編曲：劉志遠
製作：Jim Lee
Aren't you glad you didn't stay with me
Bohemian life and instability
You went off to university
And you took your love away from me
Endless nights, lovers, friends and fun
Big-City lights, your new life had begun
＊And as the world turns on and on
Love is lost and love is won,
laughed and cried when we were young
You went your own way. I survived
And did you ever see everything inside of me?＊
So now you live your life in luxury
Double glazing, turbo washing machine
And your fiance is boring as hell
You never laugh, you’re both professional
You know that film. That I'd started to write?
It's a box-office smash, I'm on the next flight
To get my award on TV tonight
Looking back, I think I've done alright
REEPAT＊＊
Oh, aren't you glad you didn't stay.
Oh aren't you glad you didn't stay with me?
Oh, aren't you glad you didn't stay with me?
You didn't want my love,
So aren’t you glad, aren't you glad, aren't you glad?
Aren't you glad, aren't you glad,
Aren't you glad, aren't you glad
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
