How to Start Preparation for CLAT 2025

Common Law Admission Test, CLAT, is a national-level entrance test conducted by a consortium of NLUs. It is an entry point for candidates who want to pursue a BA LLB and dream of getting into one of the twenty-six National Law Universities. 

Importance of early preparation for CLAT 2025

Early preparation is a prerequisite to completing the syllabus on time and getting a perfect score on the entrance exam. If you are sure about your dream, start preparing for CLAT in class eleventh or twelfth.

What to expect in the blog

This blog explains the intricacies of CLAT, familiarizes you with the exam structure and format, focuses on preparation tips for each section, and provides a list of recommended study material. Lastly, it provides strategies to maintain your well-being while preparing for the exam.

Understanding the CLAT Exam

Format and structure of the CLAT exam

Maximum Marks - 120 Marks

Duration - 2 hours (120 minutes)

Exam mode - Pen-paper based

Question Format - Multiple Choice Questions 

Marking Scheme -   +1 for the correct answer 

                                 -0.25 for the wrong answer 

Number of Subjects - Five 

Subjects covered and weightage distribution

Marking scheme and negative marking

The maximum mark for the exam is 120. There is a +1 mark for every correct answer and a—0.25 mark for every wrong answer.

Setting Clear Goals

Importance of setting realistic goals for CLAT preparation

Having an intelligent plan and managing time will help you strike a balance between your preparation for both examinations. Set realistic daily, weekly, and monthly goals to track your progress. 

Identifying target law schools and their CLAT cutoffs

Only some people who are passionate about law can get into the top NLUs. So, choose a law school according to your current aptitude, financial condition, preferred location, and logistics. Identify their cutoffs and prepare accordingly. 

Creating a study plan tailored to your goals and timeline

A balanced approach is necessary to cover all the subjects. Break down the syllabus into small parts and allocate specific time for each part.

Building a Strong Foundation

Brushing up on basic concepts in  Mathematics and Legal Aptitude 

Building a solid foundation is necessary for each subject. Start by understanding the basic concepts and principles and then move on to the advanced topics. This is especially important for subjects like Mathematics and Legal Aptitude.

Recommended resources and study materials

English Language - Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis, High School English Grammar and Composition by Wren & Martin, Objective General English by RS Aggarwal, Barron's Pocket Guide to Vocabulary, The Pearson Guide to the CLAT by Pearson's, CLAT Guide by Tata McGraw-Hill

General Knowledge and Current Affairs - Lucent's GK, Manorama Year Book, Competition Success Review, India Year Book, and Pratiyogita Darpan. Also read leading newspapers like Hindu, Indian Express, and Hindustan Times.

Quantitative Techniques - Quantitative Aptitude by RS Aggarwal, Class 10th NCERT Textbook, Data Interpretation by R.S Aggarwal, Elementary Mathematics with Numerical Ability by Prateek Jain, Magical Book on Quicker Maths by M. Tyra 

Legal Aptitude - Universal's CLAT Guide, Bare Acts of Indian Constitution, Legal Awareness and Legal Aptitude by AP Bhardwaj, LexisNexis Butterworths, Objective Legal Aptitude by R.S Aggarwal, Important Judgement That Transformed India by Alex Andrews George

Logical Reasoning - Analytical Reasoning by MK Pandey, Analytical and Logical Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by RS Aggarwal, A New Approach to Verbal and Analytical Reasoning by Arihant, 501 challenging Logical Reasoning Practice book, Quantitative Aptitude ebook (ALL Parts Solved) by RS Aggarwal

Seeking guidance from mentors, teachers, or coaching institutes

Join a renowned coaching institute to get access to the best mentors, practice sessions, study material, and mock tests. Coaching institutes provide a structured approach and prepare you to face the challenging exam confidently. 

Developing Essential Skills

Improving reading comprehension and vocabulary skills for the English section

To improve your reading comprehension skills:

1. Read newspapers, especially the editorial columns.
2. Try to get the gist of each article.
3. Use grammar books to study the basics of English.
4. Learn new words daily and use them in your daily conversations to memorize them.

Practising quantitative aptitude and data interpretation for the Mathematics section

Use NCERT books to revise the math concepts taught until the 10th standard. Learn speed math techniques to solve calculations. Regularly practise questions to become comfortable.

Enhancing logical reasoning and critical thinking abilities for the Logical Reasoning section

Familiarise yourself with topics like assumptions, conclusions, and statement-based question types. Be thorough with questions about syllogisms, blood relations, directions, and seating arrangements. In your free time, start solving games like sudoku, crosswords, and logic puzzles.

Mastering Legal Aptitude and General Knowledge

Studying critical legal concepts, principles, and landmark cases

Read essays and articles on websites like LiveLaw and Bar and Bench. Even newspapers have articles on legal cases; read them daily to enhance your legal knowledge. 

Staying updated on current affairs and general knowledge topics for the General Knowledge section

 Make it a habit to read newspapers to stay aware of current events. Prepare notes about the key facts. Use flashcards and mnemonics to remember and revise facts in your free time.

Practising Regularly

Importance of consistent and dedicated practice for CLAT preparation

 Staying consistent will help you improve speed and accuracy as the exam is time-bound. It will deepen your understanding of various concepts and help you retain information. 

Solving previous years' CLAT question papers and mock tests

Solve previous years' CLAT question papers to get an idea about the type of questions asked. Solve at least one mock test weekly, followed by a detailed analysis. Note your mistakes so you avoid repeating them in the exam. 

Analyzing strengths and weaknesses to focus on areas needing improvement

Giving mock tests and solving sample papers will give you a fair idea of the examination. It will help you distinguish between your strengths and weaknesses by which you can identify the areas where you need to put extra effort. 

Time Management Strategies

Tips for effective time management during the CLAT exam

1. Use an elimination approach to narrow down your choices.
2. Read the question carefully to understand what it is demanding.
3. Only spend a little bit of time on one question. Move on and come back later if you have time.

Practising time-bound mock tests to improve speed and accuracy

Practising time-bound tests will help you improve speed and accuracy. This will also help you to stay calm during the actual exam.

Strategies for prioritizing questions and managing exam pressure

Read each question calmly so that you can focus and comprehend faster. Taking stress reduces your ability to understand—practice time-bound tests to get comfortable with exam conditions.

Staying Motivated and Healthy

Importance of maintaining a positive mindset throughout the preparation journey

A positive mindset is necessary to stay motivated, learn diligently, and achieve your goals. The preparation journey is challenging, but a positive mindset can help you succeed in the exam. 

Incorporating relaxation techniques and stress-relief activities into your routine

Taking care of your mental and physical well-being is essential to prevent burnout. Get at least 6-7 hours of sleep every day. Dedicate an hour to physical activities like exercising, yoga, walking, etc. Have a balanced diet and practice meditation to reduce stress. 

Balancing study hours with leisure activities and self-care practices

Maintaining a balance between studies and breaks is essential to prevent exhaustion. Take out at least an hour every day for your hobbies. This will help you regain energy and research with a fresh mind. 

Conclusion

Recap of key points discussed in the blog

CLAT is an entrance exam that acts as an entry point into the BA LLB programs of the prestigious National Law Universities. As the exam covers a range of subjects, it is advised that you start your preparation at least a year ago with a strategic study plan. Focus on mastering your basics and take time-bound tests to familiarise yourself with actual exam conditions.

Start the CLAT 2025 preparation journey with confidence and determination

The right study material, strategy, dedication, and consistency can enhance your preparation journey. Stay focused and believe in yourself, and your dream college will not be far away! 

Final words of motivation for success in the CLAT exam

Focus on revising the topics regularly and give as many mock tests as possible. Focus on your physical and mental well-being to avoid falling sick. With the right strategy and tons of practice, you can pass the exam with flying colours.

FAQ's

How early should I start preparing for CLAT 2025?

Start preparing for class when your 12th class begins so that you have around a year for preparation. If you are reappearing for CLAT, 6 to 8 months of rigorous preparation is enough.

What are the eligibility criteria for appearing in the CLAT exam?

Eligibility criteria for those belonging to the General/OBC/PWD/NRI/PIO/OC categories, you must secure at least 45% marks in the 10+2 Board Examination. There is an exemption of 5% marks for SC/ST categories. 

Are there any changes or updates in the CLAT exam format for 2025?

No, the exam format for CLAT 2025 is the same as CLAT 2024. 

Is there a negative marking in the CLAT exam, and how should I approach it?

Yes, there is a negative mark of 0.25 for every wrong answer. Do not make blind guesses for questions. If you need more clarification on a question, leave it blank instead.