LSAT 69, Game 1 Setup, Manuscripts

This is the first logic game from Section II of LSAT 69, the June 2013 LSAT. A researcher is studying seven manuscripts (F, G, H, P, L, S). You must place them in order. This is a linear game.

This game can be a little difficult if you use the traditional method of ‘not’ rules to show where variables can’t go.

I used a new type of diagram the second time through that made it much simpler.

The first two rules are straightforward:

It’s the rules involving M and L that are difficult. First, they’re a bit hard to understand. They really mean that L is fifth or later, and M is third or earlier.

Second, those rules are confusing to represent. Here’s the traditional way to draw these rules:

I’ve also drawn the final rule. H can’t go fifth.

That’s how I drew the diagram when I first I did this game, and it felt slow. I kept forgetting the rules for M and L.

A Better Diagram

Your diagrams should be clear and easy to read. Here’s how I drew it the second time I did the game, and it was a lot easier:

The arcs show where M and L can go. I’ve left the final rule as a not rule: H can’t go fifth.

Now we have a simple diagram that includes three rules, and only two separate rules to remember.

LawHub Order

LawHub Order

---