MBE Study Guide
Everything You Need to Improve Your Score and Pass the Exam

Make use of flashcards and mnemonics

Flashcards and mnemonics are among the most universal and well-established study techniques for a simple reason—they are effective. Students can sharpen the edge of these tools by taking an active-learning approach and creating their own.

"Mnemonic" comes from the Greek word "mnemon" (to remember). This technique has been used since ancient times to memorize lengthy speeches and critical knowledge, and it has also been scientifically proven to aid retention.

One study compared three groups that had to memorize 72 new words. One group used mnemonic training, while the active and passive control groups did not. The group that used mnemonic training could recall far more words 20 minutes and 24 hours after the exercise.

However, the most dramatic difference came when recall was tested four months later. The passive and active control groups couldn't recall nearly any words. In fact, the mnemonic training group could recall more words in the 4-month follow-up than the other groups could after 20 minutes.

Flashcards may not be as ancient a technique as mnemonic training, but they have been scientifically proven to be effective, especially when paired with spaced-repetition software. Spaced repetition accounts for flashcards that you've graded as too easy, very difficult, or average. Particular flashcards are then shown to you at calculated intervals and frequencies relative to their difficulty.

A 2006 study found that students who employed spaced practice performed significantly better than those who used mass practice (cramming) after one week.

The best bar prep is adaptable. No one better understands the way you think better than you. In addition to Themis’s pre-loaded flashcards, UWorld allows you to generate limitless custom MBE flashcards so that you can learn your way. Create your own mnemonics, easily transfer illustrations, charts, and important content to either side of your flashcards. Our spaced repetition technology ensures that you'll see what you need to see when you need to see it.

Track your progress

Studies have shown that tracking progress improves behavioral performance and increases the chances of achieving one's goals. A meta-analysis of 138 studies involving 19,951 participants found that participants who were prompted to monitor their progress toward a goal (i.e., smoking cessation, weight loss, dietary changes, etc.) were more likely to succeed.

Monitoring and tracking your performance keep you focused on your goal. Tracking your progress allows you to see how far you've come and calibrate the subordinate goals that lead you to achieve your primary goal. Most importantly, these tools allow you to hone in on your weaknesses and transform them into strengths.

For example, say you have been performing poorly on questions involving Real Property, but your confidence in Constitutional Law is solid. You can review your Con Law approach, analyze what's working, and apply it to Real Property. Alternatively, try relating difficult Real Property laws and concepts to those you firmly grasp.

Understand the logic behind the correct answers

The difference between answering an MBE question correctly or incorrectly may hinge on a single word or phrase in the fact pattern, leading examinees to feel confident in selecting an incorrect answer. Avoid this pitfall by routinely reviewing the answer explanations provided in your UWorld MBE QBank and meticulously noting legal nuances between answer options. This practice will acclimate you to the subtleties of the law.

UWorld Study Methodology can Help You Raise your MBE Score

Empirical data has made it clear that active learning is superior to passive learning in improving learning outcomes. The Neuroscience of Active Learning has found active learning methods activate multiple neural pathways simultaneously, enabling them to make more connections and learn more efficiently. The more active the approach, the better information is retained (see graphic below).

The UWorld methodology is based on the active learning model. Our QBanks contain thousands of questions that match or exceed exam-level difficulty and allow you to generate unlimited customized tests (practice by doing).

Furthermore, our QBanks are fitted with vivid, professionally produced images, illustrations, charts, graphics, diagrams, and other high-quality visuals. One study found that subjects retained 45-55% more information when the input was visual rather than written or spoken.