Why Some Students Study Like Crazy and Still Get Low Grades

Chances are pretty good you’ve experienced this disappointment once in law school.  

It goes something like this:

You spin your wheels studying around the clock, put in serious effort, take the exam, feel like you knew the material, but then BOOM! 

You get your grade back and it’s the lowest grade you’ve ever received.  Or much lower than you anticipated based on the time and effort you put in studying. 

Ouch. 

There are four main reasons this happens:

1.  You spent too much time perfecting your case briefs as opposed to understanding the significance of each case.  To ensure you actively study to prepare for finals (as opposed to passively study to check the boxes and move on), ask yourself:  Why am I reading this case? What does this case highlight about the topic I am learning? Can I restate the rule in my own words?  What is the outcome of this case?  What facts would have changed the outcome of this case?  How is this case similar and different to the other cases I read on this topic? Can I anticipate future hypotheticals where this case might be tested?  

2.  You spent too much time formatting your outline as opposed to formatting how you will write each topic on the exam.  Ask yourself: Will I write this topic in the same format and order that I learned it? Can I use a single word as a heading or do I have to present an issue statement that includes the rule and facts?  Do I need a roadmap sentence at the outset of each issue?  Will I use headings and sub-headings?  What will they be?

3.  You spent too much time synthesizing generic rules from commercial supplements as opposed to focusing on the professor’s exam analysis, rule and formatting preferences. Ask yourself: How does my professor expect me to organize this topic? Does my prof want me to use element-based analysis and cite cases?  Does my professor prefer IRAC, CRREAC, etc.? 

4.  You spent more time doing what “successful” students are doing (or listening to the abundant “when I was in law school I did it [this way]” advice) as opposed to studying in a manner that appeals to your own personal thinking and learning preferences.  Ask yourself: What type of learner am I and how can I study in a way that appeals to my learning preferences?  What free online test can I take to understand my learning preferences? What books can I read to help me better appeal to my preferences when studying? 

Effort and time don't equate to success in law school.  I honestly wish they did.

But answering these actionable questions when you study will help you become more efficient with your time, so the return on your precious investment is worthwhile.