Logic games

Diagram of the basic linear question presented below.

Logic games, officially referred to as analytical reasoning, or abbreviated LG, is one of the sections appearing on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). A logic games section contains four 5-8 question “games,” totaling 22-25 questions. Each game begins by setting a scenario and providing a set of rules, and follows with questions that test the test-taker’s understanding and application of the rules and inferences arising from the rules. In the words of the LSAC, the test “measure[s] the ability to understand a structure of relationships and to draw logical conclusions about that structure.”[1] The time allowed for this section, like all other sections on the LSAT is 35 minutes. Most students find this section the most difficult LSAT section, although ironically the logic games section is considered the easiest and the fastest to improve at once the right strategies are learned and implemented.[2]

Common game types

Basic linear

In a basic linear game, two sets of variables are provided. The first set of variables, sometimes referred to as the ‘base variables,’ is usually days of the week, an order of arrival, or some other order. The second variable set is then matched to the first set according to a set of rule. For example:

Eight marathon runners, F, G, H, I, J, K, L and M are running a marathon. The runners arrive at the finish line one at a time. The following facts are known about the runners’ order of arrival.
F does not arrive first or last.
H arrives either immediately before or immediately after K.
If G arrives before H, G also arrives before I.
M arrives fifth.

The game would then proceed by asking questions such as:

If F arrives at the finish line second, and H third, which one of the following runners cannot arrive at the finish line first:
a. J
b. K
c. L
d. G
e. I

Advanced linear

Advanced linear games are similar to basic linear games, but three or more sets of variables are presented. For example:

Marathon runners F, G, H, I, J, K and L are running a marathon. Each runner wears a shirt that is blue, red, yellow or purple. The runners arrive at the finish line one at a time.

The game can then provide rules and pose questions relating to the order of arrival of a runner, the shirt color of a specific runner, sequences of color that must or must not be present, the shirt color of the runner that comes first etc.

Grouping

Grouping games provide variables that must be assigned to groups, but not in a specific order or sequence. For example:

Eight soccer players, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W and X must each be assigned to one of two groups, group 1 and group 2. No more than five players are assigned to one group.
T and U may not be in the same group.
If S and V are assigned to the same group, X is also assigned to that group.

Grouping linear combinations

Combination games follow a similar structure but include both linear and grouping elements.

Less common games

In addition to the common games, the LSAT sometimes includes other types of games that appear less frequently. Examples of less common games are:

Method

To solve the game quickly and efficiently, test-takers usually draw a master diagram at the bottom of the page. The rules and key inferences are written down in short symbols next to the diagram, and where possible, marked on the diagram itself. A smaller diagram can also be drawn next to a specific question if that question poses any additional rules.

References

  1. ↑ "About The LSAT". LSAC.org. Law School Admission Council. Retrieved February 21, 2017.
  2. ↑ "Test Prep: 7 Tips for LSAT Success". US News. Retrieved February 21, 2017.
  3. ↑ Kiloram, David M. (1974). LSAT Logic Games Bible. Webcom – Toronto Ontario. p. 147.
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