CLAT- How to Prepare for the Law Exam?
- UPES Editorial Team
- Published 03/02/2025

Table of Contents:
Are you a fan of the black robes, court settings, and legal verbiage? Pursuing a career in law could be your calling! Remember, there is a dearth of approx. 30 lacs lawyers in India! With your law degree and legal knowledge, you can help the society by filling up the gap.
If you’re aspiring to join prestigious law schools in India, the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is your gateway. This competitive exam is the first step towards your dream career in law. Let’s dive into all you need to know about the CLAT exam, including important dates, eligibility, syllabus, fees, and actionable CLAT preparation tips.
CLAT Exam Dates 2025
- Registration Start Date: 15th July 2024
- Last Date to Apply: 15th October 2024
- CLAT Exam Date: 1st December 2024
CLAT Exam Eligibility
To appear for the CLAT exam, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- For UG Program:
- Educational Qualification: Passed Class 12 or equivalent with a minimum of 45% marks (40% for SC/ST).
- Age Limit: There is no upper age limit for CLAT.
- For PG Program:
- Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in law with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST).
Ensure you meet the specific eligibility criteria before registering.
CLAT Exam Syllabus
Understanding the syllabus is crucial for effective preparation. The CLAT exam syllabus includes:
- English Language: Reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary.
- Current Affairs & General Knowledge: National and international events, awards, legal news.
- Legal Reasoning: Legal principles, application of laws, critical thinking.
- Logical Reasoning: Logical sequences, puzzles, and argument analysis.
- Quantitative Techniques: Elementary mathematics (up to Class 10 level).
CLAT Exam Fees
- General/OBC/PWD/NRI: ₹4,000
- SC/ST/BPL: ₹3,500
Fees include access to previous year question papers, making it a worthwhile investment for preparation.
How to Prepare for the CLAT Exam?
Preparing for the CLAT exam requires a structured and disciplined approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you ace this competitive test:
1. Understand the Exam Pattern and Weightage
Before diving into preparation, familiarize yourself with the exam pattern:
- Total Duration: 2 hours.
- UG CLAT: 150 multiple-choice questions with 1 mark each (0.25 negative marking for wrong answers).
- PG CLAT: 120 multiple-choice questions.
Each section has varying weightage:
- English Language: 20%
- Current Affairs, including General Knowledge: 25%
- Legal Reasoning: 25%
- Logical Reasoning: 20%
- Quantitative Techniques: 10%
2. Create a Study Plan
- Divide your time among the five sections, focusing more on weaker areas.
- Allocate at least 2–3 hours daily to CLAT preparation.
- Break your preparation into phases:
- Phase 1: Complete understanding of concepts and syllabus.
- Phase 2: Practice and revision.
- Phase 3: Mock tests and time management.
3. Master the English Language
- Focus on reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary.
- Develop a habit of reading editorials from newspapers like The Hindu and Indian Express.
- Use books like Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis to strengthen vocabulary.
- Practice identifying tones, main ideas, and contextual meanings in passages.
4. Stay Updated with Current Affairs and General Knowledge
- Read newspapers daily to stay informed about national and international events.
- Refer to monthly current affairs magazines like Pratiyogita Darpan or apps like Inshorts.
- Focus on legal news, government schemes, sports, and awards.
- Prepare a GK notebook for quick revisions.
5. Strengthen Legal Reasoning
- Understand fundamental legal principles, maxims, and landmark judgments.
- Practice applying these principles to hypothetical scenarios.
- Study legal current affairs and topics like contracts, constitutional law, and torts.
- Recommended resources: Universal’s Guide to CLAT & LLB Exams.
6. Sharpen Logical Reasoning Skills
- Practice topics like puzzles, syllogisms, analogies, and critical reasoning.
- Focus on identifying patterns, assumptions, and logical conclusions.
- Dedicate time to solving previous year questions and timed exercises.
7. Build Quantitative Aptitude
- Focus on basic mathematical concepts from Class 10, including:
- Percentages, Ratios, and Proportions.
- Averages, Profit and Loss, and Simple Interest.
- Data Interpretation.
- Use resources like RS Aggarwal’s Quantitative Aptitude.
- Practice solving questions within a time limit to enhance speed and accuracy.
8. Practice Mock Tests and Sample Papers
- Enrol in online CLAT test series for simulated practice.
- Analyse each test to identify weak areas and work on them.
- Familiarize yourself with the exam interface to avoid technical glitches.
9. Use Quality Study Material
- Stick to reliable books and resources for preparation, such as:
- Word Power Made Easy (English).
- Lucent’s General Knowledge.
- RS Aggarwal’s Quantitative Aptitude.
- Online resources like LegalEdge and Career Launcher.
10. Join Coaching or Study Groups (Optional)
- If self-study feels overwhelming, consider enrolling in reputed coaching institutes.
- Collaborate with peers in study groups to share knowledge and boost motivation.
11. Focus on Time Management
- Develop the habit of solving questions quickly and accurately.
- During the exam, allocate time as follows:
- 35 minutes for English Language.
- 25 minutes for Current Affairs.
- 35 minutes for Legal Reasoning.
- 20 minutes for Logical Reasoning.
- 15 minutes for Quantitative Techniques.
12. Stay Motivated and Practice Consistency
- Take regular breaks to avoid burnout.
- Use mindfulness techniques or yoga to keep stress levels low.
- Stay motivated by tracking your progress and celebrating small achievements.
UPES: Your Perfect Destination After CLAT
At UPES, we recognize the importance of CLAT in shaping the careers of aspiring law students. Here’s why UPES stands out as a top choice:
Moot Courts | Seminars | Legal Competitions | Draft Writing | Legal Internships |
- Specialized Programs: UPES offers undergraduate law courses like B.A. LL.B. and BBA. LL.B., with emphasis on global exposure and opportunities.
- Industry-Academia Linkage: Our curriculum is designed in collaboration with industry leaders, ensuring students are career-ready.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: From modern moot courts to vibrant campus life, UPES provides a holistic learning environment.
- Career Support: With strong placement records, UPES ensures students transition smoothly into their professional lives.
Explore UPES programs tailored to your career goals at UPES Official Website.
Conclusion
Preparing for the CLAT exam requires a clear strategy and consistent effort. Start early, stay organized, and focus on mastering the syllabus. With dedication, cracking the CLAT exam and securing a spot in a top law school is well within reach.
Remember, the journey doesn’t end with cracking CLAT—it’s only the beginning. Institutions like UPES ensure that your academic and legal, professional growth continues seamlessly.
Keep this guide handy and start your CLAT preparation journey today. Best of luck!
FAQs:
1. Does CLAT have Maths?
Ans: Yes, it does. You need to have sufficient knowledge of Maths to solve Logical reasoning and Quantitative Aptitude questions.
2.Is CLAT twice a year?
Ans. No, it only happens once a year. Earlier it used to happen in May. Now it does in December. So, give your best!
3.Can I self-study for CLAT?
Ans. Of Course! Follow the strategy we have shared above, and you are good to go. Any coaching institute cannot replace one’s dedication, merit and hard work.
4.Is CLAT very difficult to crack?
Ans. CLAT is difficult but achievable. Since there are many applicants, the competition is very high. However, with the right CLAT preparation and strategy, you can always ace the exam. The sooner you begin, the better!

UPES Editorial Team
Written by the UPES Editorial Team
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