Critical Skills
Skills for Success
To achieve your personal best in law school, you must master a number of skills, both broad-ranging academic skills and specialized law-specific skills. Following the guidelines of our recipe for success, work on mastering the following critical skills:
- Reading actively and critically
- Briefing cases
- Taking and transforming notes
- Synthesizing rules
- Using learning styles effectively
- Using study groups effectively
- Using study aids effectively
- Learning and remembering material
- Creating course summaries or "outlines"
- Creating flowcharts
- Spotting issues in a fact pattern
- Analyzing facts in light of the ruling law
- Managing time and setting goals
- Managing stress
- Writing effectively.
Look for more help with specific skills in the list below.
Preparing for Class
Creating a Learning Environment • Active Case Reading • Reading for Speed and Comprehension • SQ3R • Case Briefing Basics • Case Briefing Tips • Case Briefing Checklist
Understanding the Course Material
Outlining • Using Study Aids • Learning and Remembering Material
Putting Your Knowledge to Work
Writing Effectively • Sources for Practice Problems and Exams
Preparing for and Taking Exams
Managing Your Life
Managing Finances and Debt • Managing Stress • Quick Relaxation Techniques • Recreation
More Web Resources for Law School Skills