CLAT exam is not only about hard work, but the success also depends upon smart planning, strategy and dedicated CLAT prep.
In this blog you will learn about clat syllabus, clat books, Clat preparation, and some important tips and strategies.
What is the CLAT Exam?
CLAT exam is a national level entrance exam to get admission into the 22 NLU’s in India. This exam test your:
1. English language
2. General Knowledge
3. Legal reasoning
4. Logical reasoning
5. Quantitative Techniques
If you want to prepare for other entrance exams then check out our other blog: UPSC Civil Services, GATE, JEE Main.
Understanding CLAT Syllabus
Following is the syllabus of CLAT 2026:
| Section | Topics Covered | Approximate Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| English Language | Comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, etc. | 20% |
| General Knowledge | Current affairs, legal updates, GK, awards, sports | 25% |
| Legal Reasoning | Legal principles, case-based reasoning, scenarios | 25% |
| Logical Reasoning | Critical thinking, arguments, assumptions, conclusions | 20% |
| Quantitative Techniques | Basic math (up to class 10), data interpretation | 10% |
By understanding the syllabus you can make a proper strategy.
CLAT Preparation Strategy
To start planning for the CLAT exam preparation you need to focus on 3 C’s:
1. Consistency
2. Clarity
3. Confidence
A) Build a strong Foundation
You need to strengthen your vocabulary, reading, reasoning skills, and basic math. You can:
1. One newspaper daily
2. One long article for long comprehension
3. 12-15 GK facts
B) Create a Study Plan
Following is the example of how you can create a study strategy for CLAT exam:
| Month | Focus Area | Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Jan–Mar | English & GK | Improve vocabulary and reading |
| Apr–Jun | Legal & Logical Reasoning | Practice daily passages and caselets |
| Jul–Sep | Mock Tests & Time Management | Start with CLAT mock test |
| Oct–Dec | Revision & Strategy | Focus on regular practice and accuracy |
CLAT Coaching V/S Self Study
Many students ask if they should take CLAT coaching or do self study. So the following are the pros and cons for analyzing which one is best for you:
| Mode | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| CLAT Coaching (Offline) | Face-to-face guidance, instant feedback | Fixed schedules, travel time |
| CLAT Coaching Online | Flexible as there can be recorded lectures, more mock tests, cost-effective | Requires self-discipline |
| Self-Study | Independent learning, full control over pace | Risk of missing expert guidance |
Best CLAT Books
Following are some best study material to prepare for CLAT exam:
| Subject | Recommended Books |
|---|---|
| English Language | Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis, High School English Grammar by Wren & Martin |
| Current Affairs & GK | Manorama Yearbook, GK Today, daily newspapers |
| Legal Reasoning | Legal Awareness and Legal Reasoning by AP Bhardwaj |
| Logical Reasoning | Analytical Reasoning by MK Pandey |
| Quantitative Techniques | RS Aggarwal’s Quantitative Aptitude |
CLAT Mock Test Plan
Mock tests are very important in CLAT preparation. Here is what you can do:
1. 1 mock test every week
2. 2 mock tests every week when the exam is coming closer.
3. Proper analysis of the test: accuracy, time, weak areas.
Time management tips for CLAT 2026
With proper time management, you can easily complete your paper on time. Here is how you can effectively manage time:
1. Study 4-5 hours per day and take short breaks to refresh your mind
2. Give priority to weak subjects first.
3. Dedicate 1 hour daily for reading comprehension and GK
How to Stay Calm during the CLAT prep
While preparing for any competitive exam, you can feel overwhelmed especially when the exam date comes closer. Following is how you can manage stress:
1. Meditate for a few minutes daily
2. Do light exercise or simply go for a walk
3. Don’t compare yourself with others.
4. Do journaling or any of your hobbies.
Final 3 months prep plan for CLAT Exam
1. Daily revision of GK and reasoning
2. Alternate days for mock test and analysing mistakes
3. Revise difficult concept frequently
4. Practice reading comprehension under time pressure.
FAQ’s
1. How to start my CLAT preparation (without coaching)?
Ans: Understand the syllabus first, and then prepare a strategy. Use CLAT books and take free online mock tests.
2. What is the strategy and planning for the CLAT preparation?
Ans: Make a timetable and set a daily routine for practice. Prioritize weak subjects more and revise frequently
3. What is the best study material for the CLAT entrance exam?
Ans: You can refer to books like Word Power Made Easy, MK Pandey Logical Reasoning, and Manorama Yearbook. You can also check out online resources.
4. How to prepare for the CLAT exam in 6 months?
Ans: Make a schedule which can consist of 2 months for concept clarity, 2 months for practice and 2 months for mock test and revision.
5. How to crack the CLAT exam in the first attempt?
Ans: Stay consistent and practice daily. Take at least 40 mock tests and analyze every mistake and see where you can improve so that you don’t make mistake in final exam
6. How much time should I dedicate daily for CLAT preparation?
Ans: Ideally you can dedicate 4-5 hours daily and dedicate at least 1 hour for reading and GK.
7. Which common mistakes should I avoid during CLAT prep?
Ans: Ignoring GK, skipping Mock tests, and inconsistent routines.