Tips for the California Performance Test (Bar Exam)

Overview

• Importance of approaching the California Performance Test (PT) correctly.
• Tips to achieve a high score.

Tip 1: Read the Task Memo First

• Task Memo: First document in the file, provides instructions from a hypothetical supervisor.
  • Identifies the client, case details, tasks to complete, specific issues to address.
  • Indicates tone: Objective (legal memos, opinion letters) vs. Persuasive (briefs, demand letters).
  • Audience: Adjust language for clients vs. legal professionals.
  • Follow all instructions in the task memo for compliance.

Tip 2: Know the Jurisdiction

• Jurisdiction: Fictional state of Columbia (U.S.). Do not assume California law applies.
  • Use the law provided in the library, as it might differ from known law.
  • Identify binding (Columbia courts, U.S. Supreme Court) vs. persuasive (other jurisdictions) authority.

Tip 3: Master Highly Tested Tasks First

• Practice: Complete at least 10 PTs under timed conditions.
  • Focus on post-July 2017 tests (90-minute format).
• Common Tasks: Objective memos (most frequently tested), persuasive briefs, demand letters.
  • Start with mastering objective memos.

Tip 4: Know Task Formats

• Organization: Part of the score is based on organization.
  • Memorize general formats of common tasks: memos, briefs, letters.
  • Adjust format slightly for specific task requirements.
  • Utilize JD Advising performance test cheat sheet for common formats.

Tip 5: Practice Under Time Conditions & Review High-Scoring Answers

• Timing: Major challenge is completing tasks within 90 minutes.
  • Develop a strategy (read library before factual documents).
  • Cut off practice at 90 minutes to gauge actual performance.
• Review: Compare practice answers to high-scoring student answers.
  • Check organization, use of IRAC, rule statements, and argument quality.
  • Understand and mimic high-scoring responses.

Bonus Tip: Additional Practice Material

• Additional Resources: Use previously administered multi-state performance tests (MPTs) for extra practice.
  • MPT is similar to California PT.
  • Review sample high-scoring student answers from Georgia Office of Bar Admissions.
  • Links to resources provided in handout.

Conclusion

• Comprehensive preparation involves understanding the task memo, jurisdiction, practicing common tasks, knowing task formats, timing strategies, and reviewing model answers.
• Utilize available resources for effective practice and improvement.