Kate33

Just wondering if anyone has taken the Washington State bar exam and, if so, what was it like and do you have any study tips. I understand it is essay only (no MBE, MPT). Since I suck at MBE format and feel more comfortable with essays, this option looks very attractice. Also, what is the minimum grade to pass, how is it graded, and what is the best prep course? Thanks.

Category: WA - Washington Bar Exam

rightnow

Washington bar exam is very very tiring b/c you have to write for 2 1/2 days. However, if you hate MBE, then it should be a really good state for you.

My study tip is to have a set of really good washington bar exam outlines, study it, and then practice at least 4 essays per subject

Memorize the black letter rules really well, b/c there is no multiple choice for you to choose from!

And be ready to be really sore, b/c you just had to keep on writing!

Good luck

Kate33

Thanks for your comments. How is it graded? Do you recommend any formal study program? To save $$$, I am planning on passing on BARBRI and just using baroutlines.com and old essays from previous WA bars to review.

rightnow

I forgot how it is graded, but basically each essay (besides the professional responsibility, which is graded separately) has the same points. You have to identify the issues that the bar graders are given to earn the points. Professional responsibility on the third is graded separately, so if you just failed the profe. responsibility part, you get to keep the essay portion and just retake the prof respons. again. I think that's a huge plus.

Regarding the baroutlines.com I also used it and thought it was fantastic. However, that is b/c I took all the major courses and understood the outline without any help. Make sure you practice a real essay after reading each outline using their hints/techniques. Practice is the most important part in the preparation.

Also, bring your outlines with you on the day of the exam and review them during the breaks. It was very helpful.