— Amitendra Kumar
With less than four months remaining for the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT), aspirants are in the final stretch to secure a spot in India’s top law schools. While an ideal preparation period spans six to eight months, it’s still possible to succeed with a focused, last-minute strategy. By prioritising key areas, practising effectively, and managing time efficiently, candidates can maximize their performance in the limited time left before the December 1 exam.
Here’s how to make the most of these crucial final weeks.
Understanding syllabus and exam pattern
CLAT tests five key areas: legal reasoning, logical reasoning, English language, general knowledge, and quantitative techniques. A candidate needs to develop a clear understanding of each section’s structure and allocate time wisely. Focus on grasping essential legal concepts and mastering critical skills through logical reasoning exercises. Equally important are current affairs, general knowledge, and basic quantitative skills, which will require continuous daily practice.
1. Weeks 1-2: Focused revision and Static GK
Start by revisiting core concepts in legal reasoning, logical reasoning, and quantitative aptitude. Allocate time each day to brush up on static general knowledge (GK) topics, such as constitutional law, important judgments, and key legal terminologies.
In these initial weeks, prioritize revising high-weightage topics. For static GK, focus on frequently asked questions related to geography, history, and significant national and international events. Simultaneously, practice simple quantitative aptitude problems daily to maintain speed and accuracy.
2. Weeks 3-4: Revise current affairs and revisit mocks
By the third week, it’s crucial to revise current affairs from the past nine months. Focus on significant events, government policies, international agreements, and important legal developments. Review short notes or online summaries to consolidate your understanding of recent developments.
At this stage, it’s also essential to revisit mock tests that you’ve already taken. Analyze your previous performances, identify where you struggled, and work to improve these weak areas. Take one or two fresh mock tests each week and thoroughly assess your mistakes. Focus on maximizing both accuracy and speed by developing a consistent strategy.
3. Weeks 5-6: Intensive mock practice and time management
In the final phase, increase your focus on mock tests. Aim to take at least two to three full-length mocks each week under timed conditions. These practice tests will help you refine your exam strategy and sharpen your time management skills.
During these weeks, revise both static GK and current affairs alongside your mock test practice. Go over important legal principles, high-frequency topics, and any areas where you’ve previously made errors. Continue revising key news events from the past nine months, ensuring you’re confident in the current affairs section.
4. Final Weeks: Quick revisions and strategy tweaks
In the last two weeks, your primary focus should be on quick revisions. Spend time revisiting legal reasoning and logical reasoning sections. Review your strategies for tackling the legal aptitude and logical reasoning sections, as they often carry more weight in the exam. Adjust your approach to maximize accuracy while ensuring that you’re managing your time effectively.
By following this refined strategy, you can maximize your chances of success in the CLAT exam even with limited time remaining.
Kumar is the product lead at Career Launcher