How many questions can I get wrong on the LSAT to get a 170?

Q: How many questions can I get wrong on the LSAT to get a 170?

A: You can typically get approximately 12 to 18 questions wrong (out of 99-102 scored questions) to achieve a scaled score of 170. The exact number varies with each test's difficulty, as the LSAT uses a conversion scale (not a strict percentage) to equate scores across different administrations. On an average test, missing around 15 questions often results in a 170.

Q: How does the LSAT scoring conversion work?

A: Your raw score (number correct) is converted to the scaled score (120-180) via a test-specific equating process. A harder test allows more wrong answers for the same 170; an easier test allows fewer. There is no fixed "one question equals one point" relationship.

Q: What is the breakdown per section for a 170?

A: The test has three scored sections (two Logical Reasoning, one Reading Comprehension) with about 24-26 questions each (roughly 75-78 total). To model a 170:

  • Target Raw Score: Aim for about 62-65 correct out of ~75-78 questions.
  • This means you can miss: ~10-13 questions total across all three sections.
  • Section Strategy: Consistent performance is key. For example, missing 3 in each LR and 4-5 in RC could still land you in the 170 range.

Q: How should I use this information in my test strategy?

A:

  1. Pace for Perfection, Accept Some Errors: A 170 does not require a perfect score. Do not obsess over a single tough question; make an educated guess and move on to secure easier points later.
  2. Focus on Section Balance: A major blow in one section (e.g., missing 8 in RC) is difficult to offset. Aim for steady, controlled performance.
  3. Build in an Error Budget: Knowing you can miss ~12-15 questions reduces anxiety and helps you make strategic, time-efficient decisions during the test.

Q: What is the best way to track my progress toward a 170?

A: Use official practice tests and their published conversion scales. After each PT:

  1. Calculate your raw score (number correct).
  2. Use the test's score conversion chart (provided in the answer key) to find your scaled score.
  3. Analyze which question types and sections you're missing to strategically reduce errors.

Q: How can TheEntryPass help me reach a 170?

A: At TheEntryPass, we help you build a precision strategy for high-score targets. For a 170, this means:

  • Error Budget Allocation: Teaching you how to strategically distribute your allowed wrong answers across sections based on your personal strengths.
  • Advanced Pacing Drills: Moving beyond basic completion to optimizing question selection and time per question to maximize your raw score.
  • Performance Analytics: Helping you identify if your errors are concentrated in specific, fixable areas or scattered, which requires a different approach.

For the most accurate understanding, practice with recent official LSATs and review their individual scoring scales.