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If you're planning to take the LSAT in 2026 or beyond, the Law School Admission Test has changed, and understanding the updated LSAT format is key to your success. With three scored sections, a new argumentative writing task, and the permanent removal of logic games, this test now emphasizes analytical reading and reasoning more than ever.
In this guide, we break down the test section-by-section, share insider insights from real test takers, and offer expert advice to help you prepare confidently.
Overview of the 2026 LSAT Format
The LSAT now consists of four sections:
- Two Logical Reasoning sections (scored)
- One Reading Comprehension section (scored)
- One unscored section (either Logical Reasoning or Reading Comprehension)
- One Argumentative Writing task, administered separately online
Of these, three scored sections contribute to your LSAT score. The unscored section is used to test new questions and is not identified during the test, making time management and endurance vital.
The Argumentative Writing section, formerly known as the writing sample, has been restructured and now plays a more meaningful role in law school applications. The new task requires you to complete arguments in support of a position using evidence and reasoning, an ability central to success in law school.
Real-World Insight: Many recent test takers found the June 2025 reading comprehension section unusually hard. Some reported having two reading comprehension sections, with one being unscored, but they didn’t know which. This highlights the importance of prepping as if all four sections count.
Section 1: Logical Reasoning (2 Scored Sections)
The logical reasoning section makes up two of the three scored sections on the LSAT. You’ll face a series of multiple-choice questions based on short arguments, each testing your ability to evaluate, strengthen, weaken, or analyze reasoning.
Key logical reasoning question types:
- Must Be True
- Strengthen/Weaken
- Flaw in Reasoning
- Assumption
- Parallel Reasoning
- Inference
- Evaluate the Argument
- Principle Application
You might see 24-26 logical reasoning questions per section. The LSAT tests not just what you know, but how well you can apply logical analysis under pressure.
Pro Tip: Build your ability to spot flaws and unsupported assumptions. Don’t just practice questions; analyze the reasoning behind every correct and incorrect answer.
Read: LSAT Logical Reasoning Strategies for Principle Questions and LSAT Logical Reasoning Strategies for Flaw Questions
Section 2: Reading Comprehension (1 Scored Section)
The LSAT reading comprehension section includes long passages followed by multiple-choice questions. These test your ability to read complex texts, synthesize information, identify viewpoints, and analyze arguments.
What you'll see:
- Four total passages
- One comparative reading set (two shorter, related passages)
- Around 26-28 comprehension questions
Expect dense material across law, humanities, science, and social science. Your job: grasp structure, author perspective, and key arguments quickly.
A Reddit thread from June 2025 reports that one reading comprehension section was noticeably harder, with confusing passages and time pressure. Prep for high-difficulty levels.
Read: LSAT Reading Comprehension Guide: Tips, Strategies, & Practice and 10 Ways to Strengthen Your LSAT Reading Comprehension
Section 3: Experimental (Unscored)
The experimental section is one of the most misunderstood parts of the LSAT. It’s an unscored section (either logical reasoning or reading comprehension) used by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) to test out new questions for future exams. But here’s the catch: it’s completely indistinguishable from the scored sections.
You won’t be told which section is experimental, and it could appear in any position during your test. That means you need to approach all four multiple-choice sections with the same focus and intensity; guessing which one “doesn’t count” is a trap that could cost you real points.
Why it matters:
- If you underperform on the experimental section, thinking it’s unscored, and it's not, you’re hurting your LSAT score.
- If you burn out early and it’s the last section, your test-day endurance takes a hit.
- If you walk in expecting three sections and get four, you’re not fully prepared for the actual pacing challenge.
Expert Strategy: Train with four-section practice tests regularly. This builds the stamina and mental discipline you’ll need to maintain peak performance from start to finish, especially when the experimental section shows up as the second or fourth slot.
Real-World Insight: Many recent test takers on r/LSAT didn’t realize they had an experimental section until after the test, and several misidentified it. The key takeaway? Don’t waste energy guessing. Treat every section like it counts.
Section 4: Argumentative Writing (Administered Separately Online)
The new LSAT argumentative writing task is no longer just a throwaway writing sample. Law schools may actually read and assess your response.
You’ll be asked to write a structured response that completes arguments using logical support and clear reasoning. You can take this section on your own computer, starting eight days prior to your test date.
Key features:
- Timed (35 minutes)
- No right answer, but strong reasoning expected
- Tasked with presenting a persuasive, evidence-backed argument
Many schools say the new argumentative writing task helps them assess clarity of thought, structure, and how well students can form coherent legal reasoning.
Consider working with a coach to develop a reusable framework for tackling any writing task prompt efficiently.
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LSAT Test Administration: What to Expect
Starting in 2026, the LSAT is administered entirely online. You’ll take the test on your own computer, from a private location, with a live remote proctor monitoring you via webcam and screen share. Before the test begins, you’ll complete a check-in process that includes identity verification, a room scan, and a system diagnostic to ensure everything meets LSAC’s technical requirements. This process can take 15 to 30 minutes, so it’s important to be ready early.
The LSAT Argumentative Writing section is also taken online, but it’s administered separately from the multiple-choice portion. You can complete the writing task on your own computer during a flexible window, any time within the eight days leading up to your official test date.
The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) publishes regular updates on test dates, score release timelines, registration deadlines, and fees. Make sure to track your registration deadline and confirm your test time well in advance. If you plan to request testing accommodations, such as extended time, additional breaks, or assistive technology, you’ll need to submit documentation early, as approval can take several weeks.
Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare your testing setup. A full system check in your actual testing space at least a week before your exam can help you avoid technical issues or last-minute disqualifications. Something as small as poor lighting or background noise has disrupted test sessions for others; make sure that doesn’t happen to you.
Read: LSAT Prep & Study Guide: Best Practices & Free Resources
How to Prepare for the 2026 LSAT Format
The redesigned LSAT demands a different kind of preparation. With the removal of logic games and a sharper focus on reading comprehension and logical reasoning, your prep strategy needs to be smarter, more deliberate, and aligned with how the test is actually constructed. Here's how top scorers and coaches recommend you approach it.
Identify and Target Your Weakest Section
The first step is diagnostic. Take a full, timed practice test that mirrors the current format and analyze your performance. Are you missing inference questions in logical reasoning, or losing time on comparative reading comprehension passages? Don’t waste hours studying what you’re already good at. Pinpoint where your ability is weakest, and go deep question by question, concept by concept, until that section becomes an asset, not a liability.
Train for Four-Section Endurance
Most students overlook this, but the extra unscored section on test day can drain your energy and skew your pacing. If you’re only practicing three sections at a time, you're not building the stamina the real test requires. Simulate full four-section exams regularly to improve mental endurance, stress regulation, and timing, especially when the unscored section shows up second or last, which is common in recent LSAT administrations.
Develop a Reliable Writing Task Framework
The LSAT argumentative writing task is no longer an afterthought. It now requires a clearly structured, persuasive argument that reflects the kind of reasoning you'll use in law school. You need a flexible, proven framework that works across prompts (introduction, clear claim, structured support, and thoughtful counterpoint). Practice writing full responses under timed conditions on your own computer, and get feedback whenever possible. Law schools may not score this section, but they do read it, and your writing can make or break a borderline application.
Understand How Your Score Is Calculated
Your LSAT score is based solely on your performance in the three scored sections: two logical reasoning sections and one reading comprehension section. Each is weighted equally. There’s no penalty for wrong answers, and your raw score is converted to a scaled score from 120 to 180. Understanding this breakdown helps you prioritize improvement efficiently. A five-question gain in logical reasoning could move your score more than ten percentile points.
Use the Right Study Materials
Not all LSAT prep tools are created equal. Many free or outdated resources still include logic games, which are no longer part of the test. Make sure you’re using materials aligned with the current LSAT format, which means practice tests with the right section structure, realistic difficulty, and up-to-date multiple choice questions in logical reasoning and reading comprehension. Use official LSAC materials whenever possible, and supplement with reputable third-party resources that reflect post-2024 exam changes.
Key Terms Recap (For Quick Reference)
- LSAT consists of: 3 scored sections + 1 unscored + 1 writing task
- Scored logical reasoning sections: 2
- Scored reading comprehension section: 1
- One unscored section: either reasoning or reading
- Complete LSAT argumentative writing task: separate & required
- LSAC: Law School Admission Council
- Test takers: need to prep for the full 4-section test
Final Thoughts
With the 2026 changes, the LSAT is more focused on evaluating your ability to read, reason, and argue, core skills for success in law school. By understanding the new structure, studying smart, and simulating real test conditions, you can enter test day prepared and confident.
Need help structuring your LSAT prep around the new format? Work with an LSAT coach on Leland to build a custom study plan that targets your exact weak spots.
You can also:
- Explore an expert-led LSAT prep course
- Book a free call with an advisor to get matched
- Read real student reviews
- Join a free LSAT strategy event
- Check out our LSAT Exam Prep Bootcamp
See: The 10 Best LSAT Tutors: Private LSAT Tutoring for Top Scores
Check out more related topics:
- LSAT vs. GRE for Law School–Which to Take and How to Ace Both
- LSAT Format & Structure: Section-by-Section
- Law Schools That Don't Require the LSAT: Exploring Your Options
- How to Improve Your Evaluation Skills for the LSAT
- What is an Average, Good, and Perfect LSAT Score? (2026)
FAQs
What is the new LSAT format in 2026?
- The 2026 LSAT format includes two scored logical reasoning sections, one scored reading comprehension section, one unscored section (either type), and one argumentative writing task taken online.
Is the writing sample still part of the LSAT?
- Yes, but it’s now called the LSAT argumentative writing task. It’s a more rigorous writing task that plays a larger role in admissions.
Are logic games still on the LSAT?
- No. As of 2024, the logical reasoning and reading comprehension sections make up the entire multiple-choice portion of the exam.
How is the LSAT scored?
- Your LSAT score is based on your performance in the three scored sections only. The writing sample is unscored but sent to law schools.
Can I practice the argumentative writing task?
- Yes. LSAC offers free practice prompts. Better yet, get feedback from a coach to make sure your structure, clarity, and arguments are strong.
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