Effective pacing starts with understanding that you don't need to understand every word—you need to identify the passage structure, main argument, and author's tone quickly. Strategic note-taking during the first read and practicing passage mapping (outlining key points) can cut reading time without sacrificing comprehension. Tutors experienced in LSAT prep can teach you which passages to tackle first based on difficulty and show you how to skip less critical details. Consistent timed practice with real LSAT passages is essential to build the muscle memory needed to hit your target pace.

Score improvement depends on your starting point and the effort you invest, but students typically see 3-7 point improvements (on the 120-180 LSAT scale) within 8-12 weeks of focused work on Reading Comprehension. If you're scoring in the mid-150s, reaching the high 150s or low 160s is realistic with targeted instruction on question types and timing strategies. The key is identifying your specific weaknesses—whether that's inference questions, comparative passages, or time management—and addressing them systematically through practice and feedback.

LSAT Reading Comprehension questions fall into several categories: Main Point/Primary Purpose, Detail, Inference, Logic Function, and Comparative Reading (comparing two passages). Each requires a different strategy—for example, Main Point questions reward understanding the author's overall argument, while Detail questions test whether you can locate specific information. Inference questions require careful reasoning about what the passage supports but doesn't explicitly state. Tutors can teach you to quickly identify question types and apply the right approach, then use practice tests to reinforce these strategies until they become automatic.

Most law school admissions advisors recommend 3-4 focused practice sessions per week, with each session including 2-3 full passages followed by timed question practice and detailed review. An effective plan starts with untimed work to build accuracy and understanding, then gradually introduces time pressure as you improve. You should complete 30-40 full practice tests (using real LSAT materials) over your prep period to get comfortable with the section's patterns and your personal timing. Working with a tutor helps you create a customized schedule based on your timeline and current performance level.

Comparative Reading passages (introduced in 2007) require you to understand two separate arguments and then identify their relationship—agreement, disagreement, or nuance. The challenge is managing the extra reading load while keeping both passages' main points clear in your mind. Effective strategies include reading Passage A completely, then Passage B, followed by a quick mental comparison before tackling questions. Some students find it helpful to note key differences and similarities in their passage map. Tutors can show you whether you should answer all Passage A questions first or tackle comparative questions immediately, depending on your strengths.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling rushed or uncertain about your approach, so building confidence through consistent, successful practice is the best antidote. Developing a reliable system for reading passages, taking notes, and answering questions gives you something concrete to focus on when anxiety creeps in. Many students benefit from practicing relaxation techniques like controlled breathing between passages and reminding themselves that perfection isn't required—you can miss a few questions and still reach your target score. Tutors can help you build this confidence through gradual exposure to timed practice and positive reinforcement of your improving skills.

Look for tutors with proven LSAT experience, ideally those who have scored well on the test themselves and have successfully coached other students. They should be able to diagnose your specific weaknesses quickly and teach you strategies tailored to your learning style rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Ask about their approach to timing, question type strategies, and how they use practice tests in their instruction. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in LSAT Reading Comprehension and can work around your schedule as you prepare for law school.