How to Start CLAT Preparation from Scratch

How to Start CLAT Preparation from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing for the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) from scratch can seem overwhelming, but with the right strategy and consistent effort, you can crack this competitive exam. Whether you're a student in Class 11, 12, or a graduate, this guide will help you begin your CLAT preparation effectively.

1. Understand the CLAT Exam Pattern & Syllabus

Before diving into preparation, familiarize yourself with the exam structure:

• Mode: Offline (Pen & Paper)

• Duration: 2 hours

• Total Questions: 120

• Sections:

  
  

  • English Language (28-32 questions)

  • Current Affairs & General Knowledge (35-39 questions)

  • Legal Reasoning (35-39 questions)

  • Logical Reasoning (28-32 questions)

  • Quantitative Techniques (13-17 questions)

Marking Scheme:

• +1 for each correct answer

• -0.25 for each wrong answer

2. Create a Structured Study Plan

A well-planned schedule ensures consistent progress. Divide your preparation into phases:

Phase 1: Foundation Building (3-4 months)

• Focus on understanding basic concepts in all sections.

• Strengthen vocabulary, grammar, and reading habits for English.

• Start reading newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express) for GK & Current Affairs.

• Learn legal terms and basic legal principles.

• Practice logical and quantitative reasoning daily.

Phase 2: Intensive Preparation (3-4 months)

• Solve previous years’ papers and mock tests.

• Revise weak areas and take sectional tests.

• Improve speed and accuracy through timed practice.

Phase 3: Revision & Mock Tests (Last 2 months)

• Take full-length mock tests weekly.

• Analyze mistakes and refine strategies.

• Focus on high-weightage topics.

3. Subject-wise Preparation Strategy

A. English Language

• Focus Areas: Reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary.

• Preparation Tips:

  
  

  • Read newspapers, novels, and editorials daily.

  • Practice synonyms, antonyms, and para-jumbles.

  • Solve previous CLAT and LSAT passages.

B. Current Affairs & General Knowledge

• Focus Areas: National & international news, static GK (awards, laws, history).

• Preparation Tips:

  
  

  • Follow monthly GK magazines (Pratiyogita Darpan, Manorama Yearbook).

  • Make notes of important events.

  • Use apps like Inshorts for daily updates.

C. Legal Reasoning

• Focus Areas: Legal principles, case-based questions.

• Preparation Tips:

  
  

  • Study landmark judgments and legal maxims.

  • Solve case-study-based questions.

  • Refer to legal reasoning books like "Legal Awareness and Legal Reasoning" by AP Bhardwaj.

D. Logical Reasoning

• Focus Areas: Syllogisms, analogies, logical sequences.

• Preparation Tips:

  
  

  • Practice puzzles, blood relations, and coding-decoding.

  • Solve LSAT and CLAT logical reasoning questions.

E. Quantitative Techniques

• Focus Areas: Basic arithmetic, data interpretation.

• Preparation Tips:

  
  

  • Revise Class 10 math topics (percentages, ratios, averages).

  • Practice bar graphs, pie charts, and tables.

4. Recommended Books & Resources

• English: Word Power Made Easy, Objective General English by SP Bakshi

• GK & Current Affairs: Lucent’s General Knowledge, Newspapers

• Legal Reasoning: Universal’s CLAT Guide, Legal Aptitude by AP Bhardwaj

• Logical Reasoning: Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by RS Aggarwal

• Quantitative Techniques: Quantitative Aptitude by RS Aggarwal

5. Mock Tests & Previous Year Papers

• Take at least 1-2 mock tests per week in the final months.

• Analyze weak areas and improve time management.

• Solve CLAT past papers (last 5 years) to understand trends.

6. Time Management & Exam Strategy

• Sectional Time Allocation:

  
  

  • English: 20-25 mins

  • GK: 15-20 mins

  • Legal & Logical Reasoning: 30-35 mins each

  • Quantitative: 10-15 mins

    
    

• Attempt easy questions first to maximize scoring.

  
  

  Avoid guesswork unless sure (negative marking applies).

  
  

7. Stay Consistent & Motivated

• Follow a disciplined routine.

• Join online forums or study groups for discussions.

• Take breaks to avoid burnout.

Final Thoughts

Starting CLAT preparation from scratch requires patience, smart work, and consistency. Follow this structured approach, practice regularly, and stay updated with current affairs. With dedication, you can secure a seat in a top NLU!

Good luck with your CLAT journey! 🚀