No Reading Out Loud

Speaking aloud during the LSAT, whether at a test center or remotely, is strictly prohibited unless you have an approved accommodation. This rule applies to reading passages, questions, or reasoning aloud. Even silently mouthing words is not allowed.

Violating this rule, even unintentionally, can have serious consequences. LSAC may cancel your score or flag your test with an irregularity, which could impact your law school applications. Proctors monitor for any unusual behavior, and even harmless habits like whispering to yourself can raise red flags.

Why Talking Is Banned

The rule against speaking or mouthing words exists to protect the fairness and integrity of the test. Here’s why it matters:

• Preventing Cheating: Speaking aloud could signal an attempt to communicate with someone off-camera or use voice-recognition tools.

• Maintaining Fairness: Talking would distract other test-takers at in-person testing centers. Applying the same rule remotely ensures consistency.

• Assisting Proctors: Remote proctors rely heavily on audio and visual cues to detect irregular behavior. Any visible or audible speech could be misinterpreted as cheating.

Why Reading Aloud Hurts Your Performance

While reading aloud might seem helpful when studying, it actually slows you down. Vocalizing words takes more time than silent reading and reasoning. Nathan Fox, a veteran LSAT teacher and co-founder of the LSAT Demon, points out that internal reasoning is not only faster but also more effective. The LSAT tests your ability to understand and analyze arguments—not your ability to read aloud.

How to Stop Vocalizing and Improve Silent Reading

If you’re used to speaking or mouthing words during practice, it’s essential to break that habit. Here are some strategies to help:

1. Engage Your Inner Voice: Practice mentally articulating what you read. Imagine the author talking directly to you and focusing on the meaning of each sentence.

2. Practice Timed Sections: Simulate test-day conditions by completing reading comprehension sections silently under timed constraints.

3. Focus on the Big Picture: In addition to focusing on the details, pay attention to the main idea, structure, and tone of each passage.

Seeking Accommodations

If you have a documented need to read aloud, you can request accommodations through LSAC. Apply early and submit thorough documentation to support your case. If approved, consider requesting extended time to account for the additional effort required when reading aloud.

Final Thoughts

Reading silently aligns your preparation with test-day conditions by encouraging the habit of internalizing arguments without vocalizing. This will enable you to perform more efficiently and remain compliant with LSAT rules.

Need more LSAT tips? Email us at daily@lsatdemon.com.