Non-Study Related Tips for the Bar

By Carson King
Updated: December 18, 2021

The bar exam has terrorized students since 1855. It’s a ferocious monster that can destroy students’ dreams. The point is, you can’t just “coast by” the bar exam. It’ll require your full attention, commitment, and focus . . . anything less is a gamble against fate. Thankfully, you’re not alone. Friends, YouTube, professors, and the entire World Wide Web is here to help. 

The question is, what are you willing to put in?

1. Be crystal clear

Studying without a plan is like foggy driving—a horrible idea. You can’t afford to be aimless with your time. Lack of focus will undermine everything you do. If you can’t pass the bar exam, you might as well file for bankruptcy and pick up a new hobby. Organization with your studies is key. Be crystal-clear with:

• your goals
• your time
• your expectations
• your health
• your study routines

Aimless drifting is not an option. Set a plan, improve it as you go, and be totally clear. Don’t let anything fall between the cracks.

2. Warn family and friends

Your family and friends love you, but their “help” can do more harm than good. Honestly, the best thing they can do is offer mental support and not distract you. It’s time to postpone those family dinners, and hit the library instead. Let them know you still love them . . . but you might be MIA for the next few months.

3. Embrace a victorious mindset

Henry Ford said, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t—you’re right.” Don’t sabotage your studies with negative thoughts. You’re already fighting an uphill battle, why make it worse? Turn the tides in your favor by thinking positively. Affirmations like these are a great place to start: 

• I enjoy being challenged and tested on my knowledge
• I am relaxed and confident in my abilities
• I’m putting in these hours of studying for a reason
• I’m here, I’m alive, and I feel great

The bar exam is the modern-day equivalent of Goliath. Despite this titanic challenge, you can do it! Turn up your favorite music, and study like there’s no tomorrow. Passing the bar exam is like receiving an invitation to Hogwarts—it can change everything.

4. Look into meditation

You’ve heard it before and you’ll hear it again: meditation! The benefits are undeniable and mind-blowing. Meditation improves memory, increases energy, and sharpens focus. With the bar exam threatening to postpone the fulfillment of your dreams, you need all the power-ups you can get. Here’s a list of meditations to get you started: 

• 5 min
• 10 min
• 20 min

5. Find a mentor

Elevate your studies to the next level with a “law-guru.” You’re not the first, and you’re certainly not the last to take the bar exam. Talk to people who’ve taken the exam and ask them questions. Hire a private tutor if you need to (check out Crushendo’s 1-on-1 tutoring). While YouTube and other free resources are great, is it enough? Invest in your future by improving your chances of success.

Final words

If law school is your hero’s journey, the bar exam is the final boss. It’s time to utilize every resource you have to slay this fierce demon. It’s not an easy fight, but it’s worth every drop of blood. I wish you the best of luck. I’ll see you on the other side.