If you’ve been told that law school exams are “all about issue spotting,” you’re not alone, and you’re also probably wondering what that actually means. As a 1L, issue spotting can feel mysterious at first. You read the fact pattern, your heart races, and suddenly every case you’ve ever read seems relevant. The good news? Issue spotting is a skill, not a talent, and like any skill, it improves with the right practice and tools. Below, we break down what issue spotting really is, how to practice it effectively, and how you can help train your legal brain from day one.