What are Logic Games?

Analytical Reasoning (AKA “LSAT Logic Games”) asks you to diagram out complex statements in a methodical fashion to arrive at logical deductions. This is painstaking work that requires attention to detail. The good news is that for the last 20 years there have been only three major types of LSAT logic games:

  • Ordering Games (also called “Linear Games”)
  • Grouping Games (also called “Matching Games”)
  • Hybrid Games (also called “Mixed Games”)
  • We include Networking Games, but they’ve been rare on the LSAT for 20+ years, so we don’t suggest that you review them.

Logic Games have three parts: Introduction, Rules, and Questions. Here’s what a Logic Game and its questions look like:

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THE CHALLENGE:

  1. Read the question rules.
  2. Determine the game type (Ordering, Grouping, or Hybrid, etc).
  3. Draw out diagrams.
  4. Answer the questions.
  5. Do this with four games in 35 minutes.

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Next LSAT: Sep 08/ Sep 09

Without Rules there would be limitless arrangements. Rules limit possible arrangements but are difficult and time consuming to work out.

Two strategies for dealing with Rules:

  • Diagram them meticulously
  • Look for all the possible implications of them (Inferences will be discussed later.)

STRATEGIES

You have to master how to make these diagrams so that you can do it under the staggering time pressure on test day. There are two main techniques involved:

  • Speed abbreviation techniques: summarize diagrams in a consistent and quick manner.
  • Inferences: draw extended logical inferences as second nature (this is also on the Logical Reasoning section).

The Logic Games section favors calmness under pressure. Often very bright students don’t have this skill. What does this mean? You need to practice the LSAT Logic Games extensively so that on test day you have it down cold.

Timing Pressure in LSAT Logic Games Video Summary

  • 00:51 – Analytical Reasoning is entirely about timing.
  • 01:45 – You have about 8.5 minutes for each set of questions.
  • 02:10 – The key is to encapsulate all possible options for a set in 1-3 pictures.
  • 03:25 – If you get the diagram(s) right, you should never miss an Analytical Reasoning question.
  • 04:40 – Taking your time making a correct diagram will allow you to answer most questions in 5-15 seconds.
  • 06:00 – During your LSAT prep, remember to (1) stay calm, (2) know your symbols, and (3) be mechanical.
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Next LSAT: Sep 08/ Sep 09