CALIFORNIA BAR EXAM MYTHS AND MISCONCEPTIONS

Myth: The bar exam tests on memorization of the law

The California Bar does not really expect every applicant to memorize all the laws. The exam is about the application of law. Graders are more concerned with application, time-management and physical and mental endurance. When you become a lawyer you will have around the clock access to the law, but not necessarily the tools to apply it. Besides, we’re not sure if it’s humanly possible to memorize every law.

Read more about the exam here.

Myth: You should lock yourself in a room and study

Solitude can’t be beneficial for any human. As a matter of fact, it will probably make you go crazy. Well, not completely crazy, but definitely stressed. One of the best ways to alleviate stress is to spend time with friends and family. Listen to your favorite CD, watch your favorite movie, go to the beach and get a massage. Isolation will make you more vulnerable to stress. That’s why at Open Book we have the Learning Center. The Center was created to give students an adequate environment for gaining knowledge that is free from distractions, yet not sequestering.

Myth: Spend the days before the exam cramming

Probably not a good idea. Cramming might have gotten you through high school, college and maybe even law school, but it won’t work on the bar exam. Your brain needs time to relax and renew itself. To get your brain in shape the days before the exam reduce stress, eat well, get plenty of rest, exercise and most importantly, believe you can do it.

Myth: Focus only on the written portion

It’s true that the written portion is worth more on the exam, but you must focus on the MBE portion as well. The written section is worth 65 percent and the MBE section accounts for 35 percent of the total score. It is vital to focus on the entire exam, and then see where you need the most improvement. Maybe you’re great at essays, but terrible with MBEs; there is no universal answer. Besides, at Open Book every student receives a personalized study plan [link to syllabus] that will lead to a passing score.

Myth: The MBE portion is getting easier

You wish. According to the National Conference for Bar Examiners, average MBE scaled scores have varied by 2 points or less every year. So, it is vital to become articulate in both MBEs and the written portion.