Best LSAT Prep Books

The Law School Admission Test, better known as the LSAT, is a standardized test that assesses whether an applicant is likely to do well in law school. This test, like many other standardized tests, is rigorous, and often described as challenging — perhaps one of the most challenging. But it is not impossible. Once people are able to grasp the structure of the test, they can better approach the strategy. Then a good study schedule to focus on strengths and weaknesses within the content has proven to lead test takers to success and high scores.

The LSAT Test Structure

The LSAT tests three main areas of skill: critical reading, analytical thinking, and verbal reasoning. These are the three main areas that the American Bar Association deems are important when it comes to applying to law school. These areas are also important for succeeding in the program. Some test takers may already feel confident in some of those areas. Others may feel challenged when it comes to certain content. But the truth of the matter is that most — if not all — test takers will have room for improvement in one or more of the areas. 

Therefore, turning to a good prep book is a crucial step in the law school application process.

Some may choose to start with studying a prep book first. Others may want to take the test first to figure out which area they want to focus on for their studies. Either way, the test can be taken multiple times, and there are multiple books that will help you earn the score you want to help get you to the school you want.

Top 5 LSAT Prep Books

If you are looking for a comprehensive study, then this list should help get you started. These books are great for those who are at any stage of their LSAT process, whether just beginning or in need of a good overall review.

1. 10 Actual, Official LSAT PrepTests Volume VI

It is never a bad idea to start with a resource published and produced by the test makers themselves. The Law School Admission Council provides 10 previously administered LSATs here. They also include answer keys, writing samples, scoring tables, and more. Many say that one of the best ways to study for the LSAT is repetition of simulations of the test. This prep book provides the most simple yet practical practice that you need.

2. Kaplan’s LSAT Prep Plus

Kaplan is a name most will recognize, and for good reason. This book is filled with strategies, practice questions, and a full-length exam. The practice questions are from real previous exams, and the practice exam is a product of the LSAC who actually makes the official test for the LSAT. With this book, you know you are getting quality content. They also offer a number of online resources, including interactive workshops. The combination of real test questions, real tests from the past, and detailed explanations will provide you with real results.

3. The Princeton Review LSAT Premium Prep

This book has not one, but three full-length practice exams. You’ll get tips for how to approach each section of the test including logic games, arguments, reading comprehension, and writing. This book covers it all. Multiple practice tests, over 100 actual LSAT questions from previous exams, and step-by-step test strategies. With this resource, you’ll even learn about common mistakes and how to avoid them yourself.

4. The LSAT Trainer

If you are self-motivated and determined to improve your score, then this prep book is the one for you. With over 200 official LSAT questions, this book gives you plenty of opportunities to practice strategies and solutions for each type of questioning on the test. While it is a little less structured and involved than other books, it is straightforward and gives you the basics you need for studying on your own. One special element that it offers is 30 original drills that will help you develop LSAT skills and habits. One cool bonus feature with this resource is access to study schedules to help you organize your studying.

5. Manhattan Prep’s 5 lb. Book of LSAT Practice Drills

The name pretty much says it all, but this book is full of practice problems for you. With over 5,000 questions and 180 drills, you will get to exercise fundamental skills for each section of the test. As you build your knowledge and skills, you will then be able to analyze your performance and truly see your strengths and weaknesses. A fun feature in this book is a “cheat sheet” that offers tips and tricks for every game and question type you’ll face on the test.

Best By Category

If you are looking for a more specialized and focus study, then check out some of these options below. These books are great for those who may already know their strengths and weaknesses or who have less time to prepare. There are three types of multiple-choice sections and one writing section, so here are some book options for each section.

Logical Reasoning – This part of the test has two sections and focuses on arguments. It tests your ability to analyze arguments and to apply logic to abstract concepts.

Best Book: PowerScore LSAT Logical Reasoning Bible 2022

Analytical Reasoning – Many say this is the toughest section of the test. This section is full of logic games and tests your ability to understand the rules and relationships of different outcomes and concepts. You will be asked to draw conclusions and apply logic to complex guidelines and situations.

Best Book: PowerScore LSAT Logic Games Bible 2022

Reading Comprehension – The reading comprehension section of the test focuses on critical reading skills and has you apply those skills to four different passages. Each passage will test skills such as making inferences and determining main ideas within dense academic writing.

Best Book: PowerScore LSAT Reading Comprehension Bible 2022

Writing Sample – The writing here is a 35-minute, unscored part of the test. This is where you will leave behind the multiple choice questions and prove your ability to form and support your own argument. Because this section is technically unscored, there are not a lot of individual prep books for this section. However, there are some great online resources, including the one below:

Best Book: LSAT Writing Sample: Free 300-page LSAT Course