Law School Discussion

I've said this elsewhere, but if you find that outlining doesn't work for you, don't feel that you have to do it just because everyone else is.  I've never outlined and I've done very well in school.  I have a friend who only outlines if the exam is in class (rather than a take home) because he only needs to have quick access for an in class exam.  Others feel that they really learn the stuff when they have to outline to go over it.

I don't outline because I just find myself typing things in mindlessly - sometimes copying straight from the book which doesn't help me.  I tend to go through my notes (handwritten) and highlight important points, sometimes writing those points into another, more condensed notepad.  For example, for my first amendment exam I just wrote out the rules on separate pieces of paper and added notes about how to best apply them.

I'd add a few other pieces of advice: if you do buy hornbooks I'd read them during the semester - you run out of time at the end.  For example, when you start discovery in Civ Pro, I'd read the chapter on discovery in the E&E (most people say the E&E for Civ Pro is the best).  That way you get a good overview and see how the pieces fit together.

I'd also suggest writing at least one practice exam before your first set of exams.  At least for me, there was just something about that blank piece of paper and figuring out how to best structure an answer.  I know people use IRAC or whatever, but you still have to come up with the words and with that first sentence.  I remember looking around during my first exam and a full half the class couldn't figure out what to start with.

Finally, I liked reading through sample exam questions (from the prof are best though those are limited) and answers.  CrunchTime series usually has good ones for a lot of courses.  That helps you figure out how to apply the law - it isn't just about knowing the black letter law.  Most of your class will enter the exam knowing the same black letter law that you do.  To distinguish yourself you'll have to apply it well.

All I can think of now... perhaps I should get back to my own exam studies...


So how exactly did you study if you didn't outline?  I know for most people it is an incredible time commitment to outline... how else did you allocate your broad study time if not to outline?  The reason why I ask is because I don't think outlining will work for me either... or help me "think" through and learn the material.  I'll just end up copying verbatim from some commercial outline... waste my time and at the end of it have learned nothing.  I think a lot of people are scared to admit that outlining just isn't for them... simply because EVERYONE and their dog does it.