For those expecting to take the February bar exam, it is nearly time to begin your study courses and programs (if you haven’t already started). But, the bar exam is a completely different challenge from law school; so, what can you do now to ensure you are set up for success?
Resetting Expectations
In law school, you’re mastering new material, engaging in critical discussions, and diving deep into specific areas of law. Bar prep, however, is about having a sound understanding of the core foundations of each of the major subjects. The goal isn’t to learn every nuance of the law but to become proficient in quickly spotting the key issues and applying the rules of law. Adopting this mindset early can prevent frustration and stagnation within your program. Do not waste your time becoming an expert in one subject at the expense of the others.
Creating a Study Schedule That Works
Bar prep requires a structured yet flexible plan. Unlike law school, with deadlines and professor oversight, bar study demands personal daily discipline. Start by mapping out a calendar that blocks off enough consecutive time to dedicate to lectures and practice questions. Break your day into manageable blocks. Be sure to also include designated time to recover and recharge. If you can afford to start your bar study early, do so. You may face an unexpected situation during your study that causes you to fall behind on your tasks. Starting early will give you a cushion and allow you to catch up easily, if need be.
Managing Post-Graduation Fatigue
Graduating from law school is a huge accomplishment, but it can leave many students feeling drained before they even begin bar prep. Recognizing this fatigue is crucial. Give yourself a few days to celebrate and rest before diving into full-time study mode. Once you begin, balance rigorous study with activities that rejuvenate you — whether it’s exercise, time with friends, or simply an hour to relax with a book. A rested mind is a more effective one.
Building Effective Study Habits
Passive review won’t cut it during bar prep. The most successful bar takers engage in active learning, such as completing practice questions, writing out rules by hand, or teaching concepts to someone else. Practice tests are especially critical — they reveal weak spots and build exam stamina. Reviewing all of your answers thoroughly, especially the ones you got wrong, helps you internalize patterns and avoid repeated mistakes.
Finding Your Study Community
Bar prep can feel isolating, but you don’t have to do it alone. Study groups or accountability partners can provide motivation and a sense of camaraderie. Whether you join an in-person group, connect through your bar prep program, or find peers online, having others to share tips, discuss confusing topics, or even commiserate with on tough days can make the process less overwhelming. Also, if your law school has dedicated bar success or ASP faculty, reach out. We always want to help!
Dealing with Bar Prep Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural part of bar prep, but unmanaged stress can derail your progress and freeze you in your tracks. Incorporate tools like mindfulness, meditation, or yoga to keep anxiety in check. Set boundaries with social media, where comparisons to others can fuel self-doubt. Remember that perfection isn’t the goal—progress is. If feelings of anxiety become too intense, don’t hesitate to reach out to a counselor, medical professional, or trusted mentor for support.
Planning for the February Exam Timeline
The February bar exam arrives quickly after the holidays, so time management is key. Be mindful of additional requirements, like downloading and registering for exam software, and ensure that you are receiving any and all communications from your board of bar examiners. Plan to start bar prep with enough time to cover all the material. Build in time for multiple full-length simulated exams to develop stamina and adjust to the pacing. As you near the exam, shift your focus to fine-tuning highly-tested, weaker areas while maintaining confidence in what you already know. Stay calm and stay focused.
Good luck to all!
(Erica Sylvia, UMass Law)
