Law School Study Schedule: How to Manage Your Time, Energy, and Learning Needs from Day One
- Shana Ginsburg
- Aug 8
- 3 min read
Law school orientation is in full swing, and we’re thrilled to see our students shine. Several schools have adopted our recommended case—New Jersey v. T.L.O.—to teach case briefing, a cornerstone of any effective law school study schedule.
Our pre-1L students came prepared and ready to study well this orientiation season. They were called “gunners” (in the best way): they had the strongest briefs, nailed cold calls, and knew the case inside and out. That’s the power of effective law school tutoring—and it’s exactly what we deliver through our law school support program, led by Jose Juarez, Esq. and myself.
Whether you're a 1L just stepping into your first Contracts class or a returning student looking to sharpen your edge, we’re here to give you the essentials: how to read cases, brief effectively, and—most importantly—how to manage your time and energy.
⏳ How Much Study Time Do You Really Need in Law School?
Law school requires a significant time commitment, with a good rule of thumb being 2 hours of study time per credit hour per week, plus time for other essential activities. That means a 15-credit course load calls for about 30 hours of study time weekly.
But success isn’t just about hitting the books—it’s about building a schedule that supports your academic goals and your well-being.
🗓️ Weekly Law School Study Schedule Breakdown
Activity | Recommended Time |
📚 Class Sessions | 12–15 hours/week |
✍️ Study Sessions (Reading & Briefing) | 25–30 hours/week |
🧾 Writing (Papers & Legal Memos) | 5–10 hours/week |
🚍 Transportation | Varies by commute |
🍽️ Meals & Breaks | 1–2 hours/day |
🏃 Exercise & Wellness | 3–5 hours/week |
🧠 Personal Time & Mental Health | 5+ hours/week |
🧠 Time Management Tips for Students with ADHD, Anxiety, and Learning Challenges
Law school can be especially demanding for students with executive functioning differences, anxiety, or ADHD. But with the right strategies, you can thrive:
✅ Core Time Management Strategies
Use a digital calendar to schedule study sessions like appointments.
Color-code your calendar for easy visual organization (e.g., blue for class, red for study).
Front-load your week to finish readings early and leave weekends for review.
Build in buffer time for unexpected tasks and mental breaks.
Try the Pomodoro Technique: 25-minute focused work intervals followed by 5-minute breaks.
Minimize distractions—especially from phones and social media during study blocks.
Prioritize regular breaks to avoid burnout.
Incorporate hobbies and social time to maintain emotional balance before picking up the books on the weekends.
🧩 Additional Considerations for Neurodiverse Students
Plan for extra time on readings and assignments if you have accommodations.
Start exam prep early to reduce pressure and allow for spaced repetition.
Check in regularly with academic support services or disability coordinators.
Use active learning techniques like flashcards, teaching others, or diagramming cases.
Experiment with study strategies—what works for others may not work for you, and that’s okay.
According to Psychology Today, students with ADHD benefit from understanding their strengths, regulating personal needs, and forming study groups. And as the American Bar Association notes, embracing neurodiversity and seeking accommodations early can make a major difference.
📚 Final Thoughts: Success Starts with Structure
Law school success isn’t just about intelligence—it’s about strategy, support, and self-awareness. With a well-structured schedule, strong case briefing skills, and a commitment to balance, you’ll be ready to thrive from day one.
Jose and I are proud to support students from all backgrounds and learning profiles. Whether you’re managing ADHD, anxiety, or just the intensity of law school life, we’re here to help you build your best semester yet. Register here for law school tutoring.
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