As students of all levels know, preparing for exams is challenging. The weight of expectation, concerns about getting a good result, and worries about retaining the right information is enough to cause students at any level significant stress. For law students studying for the Ontario Bar Exam, all of these concerns are amplified.
But, with the right approach, planning and study materials, we believe that every student–no matter their learning style–can position themselves for success on the Bar Exams. In this short guide, we have compiled some Bar Exam preparation tips, focused on active reading, that will help you study effectively and build your confidence, so you can put your best foot forward on exam day.
What is Active Reading?
One of the most powerful techniques to enhance your understanding and retention of the bar material is active reading. Unlike passive reading, which involves merely skimming through the text, active reading requires full engagement with the content, which promotes better comprehension and retention.
Active reading is an interactive process that involves questioning, summarizing, and reflecting on the bar exam material as you read through the content of the provided material. Active learning encourages a deeper understanding of the material, which can help you master the complex legal concepts tested on the Ontario Bar Exams.
Key Bar Exam Reading Techniques
Previewing the Text
Before diving into a chapter, skim the table of contents, headings,and subheadings. This helps you identify the main themes and flow of the chapters and topics in a given section.
Questioning the Material
As you read, develop questions based on the headings and subheadings. Ask yourself who, what, where, when, why, and how questions to deepen your understanding.
For example, while reading about Family Law procedures, formulate questions like “What are the key steps in a divorce proceeding?” or “How is child custody determined?”
Annotating and Note-Taking
Annotate the text by highlighting key points and terms. Write summaries and comments in the margins, and use symbols and abbreviations for quicker note-taking and future reference points which will come in handy on the day of the Bar Exams.
Summarizing and Paraphrasing
After reading each section or chapter, writing brief summaries can significantly improve how you retain the information.
Connecting Concepts
A core component of actively learning is relating new information to previously learned material. Creating mind maps or concept maps can help visualize relationships between different topics.
Reviewing and Reflecting
Regularly revisit your notes and summaries. Reflect on what you have learned and how it applies to potential exam questions.
Active Reading – The Key to Studying Effectively During Your Bar Prep
For most students, incorporating active reading techniques into their study schedule takes time and consistent effort, but it will give you a great head start as you progress your Bar Exam preparation process. Engaging with your Bar Exam material through active reading solidifies information in your memory and promotes the development of your analytical skills. By focusing on key points, your preparation process will be more efficient and helpful come the day of the Bar Exam. In addition, these skills are fundamentally important for long-term success in your legal career.
Want Help With Your Ontario Bar Exam Preparation?
Start incorporating these techniques into your study routine today and explore our resources, such as our Ontario Bar Exam practice questions, to further enhance your preparation strategy.
If you have been attempting practice questions and mock exams but still feel that you want to do more to prepare, consider our Bar Exam tutoring services. The expert advice and tailored approach that tutoring from a practicing lawyer in Ontario provides can be an invaluable resource when studying for the Bar Exam.
With dedication, the right study schedule and effective study methods, you will be well on your way to succeeding on the Bar Exam!
