Active Reading Strategies for LSAT Reading Comprehension

Stop Passive Reading

The biggest mistake LSAT students make with RC is reading passages the way they read a novel. LSAT passages require active, strategic reading — you're not reading for pleasure, you're reading to answer specific types of questions.

The 4-Step Active Reading Method

1. Read for structure — As you read each paragraph, identify its purpose: Is it introducing the topic? Presenting evidence? Offering a counterargument? Drawing a conclusion?
2. Track viewpoints — Who says what? The author, critics, researchers, traditionalists? Note where they agree and disagree.
3. Find the main point — Within the first 3-4 minutes, identify the author's primary claim. Everything else supports or qualifies it.
4. Note transitions — Words like "however," "although," "nevertheless," and "in contrast" signal important shifts in reasoning.

Annotation Techniques

Use highlights strategically:

• Blue for the main point
• Green for supporting evidence
• Orange for contrasting viewpoints
• Purple for the author's opinion

Try our interactive annotation tools →