If you’ve recently failed the bar exam, going through the process a second time can be frustrating and terrifying. Below are some tips on making the second time a charm:

1. Before you take the bar exam again, ask yourself, “Did I really learn the law during law school?”  In other words, do you understand the legal process and the process of legal analysis? It’s important that you answer this question honestly because if there are things you missed during law school, now is the time to strengthen your weak spots. Take some classes and read a few books.
2. Take the bar exam seriously and don’t assume you know it already. The bar exam covers a lot of material, much of which you may not be familiar with. Treat the bar exam study time as if you are still in law school.  You will need large chucks of time during the day to study over a period of months. Don’t be shy about studying for an entire year before taking the bar exam again.
3. Don’t try to develop new ways of studying. If working in 2 to 3 hour blocks works for you, don’t try to cram in 10 hour study blocks each week. Go with what works with you so that you can study effectively.
4. Be wary of study groups.  While study groups can work with people you know and understand, trying to study with strangers could present compatibility issues.
5. Start from scratch if you’re new to the jurisdiction. If you’ve been practicing in another state and need to take the bar exam because you moved, don’t assume that your skills and experience are enough to prepare you for this exam.  Take the time to study for the bar exam as if you were a recent graduate because so much can be forgotten even when you’re a seasoned attorney.