Are we humans becoming obsolete? The buzz around ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence (AI) platform, has reached a fever pitch. It can write everything from poetry to press releases. Everyday brings a new article about what ChatGPT did or what jobs it might replace. Researchers recently have made this AI tool take the bar exam. According to the ABA Bar Journal, while prior versions of ChatGPT had fallen short, ChatGPT-4 passed—scoring high marks in the MBE and doing well enough on the Multistate Essay Examination and Multistate Performance Test (no studying required). If you are preparing for the bar exam, this may discourage you at first. Will the future need human lawyers? Why am I preparing so hard for this exam? Is all of this study and anxiety worth it? I argue that it is worth it and that you should find motivation in ChatGPT’s bar exam success. [Read more…] about ChatGPT Can Do It and So Can You
Bar Exam Toolbox Blog
Podcast Episode 211: Building New Habits While Studying for the Bar Exam
Welcome back to the Bar Exam Toolbox podcast! Today we’re talking about habits – how to make new ones and ditch the old ones that you don’t need anymore. We share some ideas found in the books Dopamine Nation and Atomic Habits.
In this episode we discuss:
- Addictions in our daily lives, as discussed by Dr. Anna Lembke in the book Dopamine Nation
- How to reset your dopamine levels to increase overall happiness and productivity
- How to create “identity habits”
- Small changes to your daily routine that can have big effects, as discussed by James Clear in the book Atomic Habits
Thanks for listening!
[Read more…] about Podcast Episode 211: Building New Habits While Studying for the Bar Exam
Time Management for the Bar
Time management is key for your bar prep studies. There are different systems you may need depending on your circumstances and depending on what you are working on. It is important to consider how you will manage your time in different scenarios. This kind of strategizing prepares you with a plan so that you can make the most of your time and see results.
Ideally, you would have the full 8–10-hour days to exclusively study, but in reality, you may be a parent, a full or part-time employee, or busy with other responsibilities. Solidifying a time management plan will help you work at the top of your game because you are planning ahead and staying organized.
Here are some ideas to get you started so you can make yourself a tailored time management game plan:
Podcast Episode 210: Listen and Learn — Evidence: Special Privileges
Welcome back to the Bar Exam Toolbox podcast! Today, as part of our “Listen and Learn” series, we’re discussing Evidence, specifically some special forms of privileged communication.
In this episode we discuss:
- Privileged communication vs. confidentiality
- The two types of marital (or spousal) privilege
- Requirements for communication between a doctor and a patient for it to be considered privileged
- Scope of the clergy-penitent privilege
- Two hypos illustrating how privilege may come up on the bar exam
Thanks for listening!
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Quick Brain Boosters to Change Your Mood
Your bar prep days are full and demanding, and your energy and efforts can feel spread thin. As much as you may try to remain optimistic and maintain a positive mindset, there are some common triggers that can cause a change in your mood such as:
- Work
- Finances
- Relationships with family, friends, and others
- Health including nutrition, exercise, and illness
When your mood feels low, you may feel tired, down, and discouraged. A low mood can be difficult to get out of, making it tough to get things done, or concentrate. When you realize your mood is in the dumps, it is usually not at the best time. For example, you may be on your way to take a practice exam or attend class or work when a low mood hits you. It can feel demoralizing to have negativity sneak up on you.
Rest assured, there are simple steps you can take to turn your mood around for the better:
Podcast Episode 209: Quick Tips — What to Do After Failing the Bar Exam
Welcome back to the Bar Exam Toolbox podcast! In this episode of our “Quick Tips” series, we’re outlining a strategy for bouncing back after failing the bar exam. We discuss how to identify and strengthen your weaker areas and set yourself up for success next time around.
In this episode we discuss:
- Overcoming the grief over failing
- Deciding when/if you want to sit for the bar again
- Finding out the reason(s) your score wasn’t high enough
- Mapping out a new study plan
- Looking for outside help if needed
Thanks for listening!
[Read more…] about Podcast Episode 209: Quick Tips — What to Do After Failing the Bar Exam