So far jumped from 143 diag to 160s. 20+ points jump. Will try for 170

[Nowhere Fast]

I also experienced an almost 20 point jump from my first diagnostic.  I was at 143 on my first try.  After taking a course, reading both PS books twice over and seriously putting in roughly 7-8 hours a day of studying a day, I've been steadily hitting a 161-162 on my preptests. 

Unfortunately, I'm seriously worried that I won't break 160 on the real thing due to my horrendous test-stress.  But come October, I should be complete with taking most, if not all, the Preptests (timed) and should be confident enough to hit a 164 like I intend to.

But I have to admit, when I first came onto this board, the few boarders that were claiming these tremendous jumps really inspired me to work as hard as possible.  I knew it wasn't gonna be simple for a 143'er to break a 160 by giving it 3-5 hours a week.  But all the hard work and the advice I'm receiving seems like it's definitely paying off.

[elitney]

Its all about trusting yourself.

Most people I have practiced with have been able to master LG and RC with enough patience, so they don't freak out about them anymore, and just do it. No one ever scores less 2-3 on either section, and rarely between them.

Same with Logical reasoning, although due to its varied content it seems to take more time. But with enough practice tests that say 170, you will not stress out, you will assume 4-8 logical reasoning mistakes, and no more then 2-4 games/RC, if you miss 10 you get at least 170...

Yes its possible you will bomb, but with the mentality above, the improvement I have seen is CRAZY. Most ppl from 140 first diagnostic to all 165+ on most practice tests. Don't think about the test as random, just do it like a robot.

(Group study) 

[EarlCat]

I've seen 20+ point jumps more than once.  This test is a skill, and as such can be developed with time and effort.  Keep up the good work!

[SwEep]

I've seen 20+ point jumps more than once.  This test is a skill, and as such can be developed with time and effort.  Keep up the good work!

im going to make you proud.

btw r u in LS already? if so where?

[gamestaboy]

I too started very low with my first diagnostic at 141.  Many months later and here I am at 160.  I'm taking the October LSAT, but also signed up for the December LSAT just in case the October one doesn't go as planned.  Here's hoping for a 160+...