Short answer: English comprehension, general knowledge and logical reasoning practice can be shared between the two exams. Check the latest official notice for each exam, because the pattern and weight of each section can differ and change over time.
Check the latest pattern first
Both exams are conducted by different bodies and each may change its pattern. Read the official information brochure for each, and list the sections and question types. Compare the two lists, and you will see which areas are common and which are specific to one exam.
Areas that usually overlap
- English comprehension and vocabulary from reading passages
- Current affairs and general knowledge
- Logical and analytical reasoning
- Basic legal reasoning, where principles are applied to given facts
Build a reading habit for passage questions
A reliable way to improve in comprehension is to read editorials and long articles regularly. Practice books give you the question format, but the reading speed comes from daily reading. Take a few passages a week, and summarise each in two lines.
Where they can differ
The sections on mathematics, the weight on legal reasoning and the style of questions can differ between the two. Do not assume that one practice book covers both fully. Use papers from each exam to see the style, and practice with the right set for each.
Choose books carefully
You do not need separate full sets of books. One legal reasoning book, one reasoning book and good reading material, with previous papers of both exams, can serve for both. Read our CLAT preparation books guide and the law books buying guide.
Building a combined timetable
Plan your week around the common areas first: reading practice, current affairs and reasoning. Then add short blocks for the topics specific to each exam. Solve one full paper of each exam type on separate days, and compare your time spent per section. Revisit your plan every two to three weeks, and drop any activity that is not improving your score. A combined plan avoids repeating effort, but make sure each exam gets enough practice in its own format.
Cost and resale
Practice books are often available second hand, as long as they are not already solved. See second hand books, and when your exam is over, sell your law books.
Frequently asked questions
Can I prepare for AILET and CLAT with the same books?
Many areas overlap, such as English, general knowledge and reasoning. Check each exam notice for differences and practise with papers from both.
Where can I find the latest exam pattern?
In the official information brochure or notification released by the conducting body of each exam.
Are used law entrance books fine?
Yes, if the edition is recent enough for the current pattern and the exercises are not already solved.