How to Prepare for CLAT and AILET 2026 Together: A Complete Guide
CLAT and AILET are two of the most prestigious law entrance exams in India, opening the gates to top NLUs like NLSIU Bangalore (CLAT) and NLU Delhi (AILET). While both exams test similar areas like English, Reasoning, and Current Affairs, they differ significantly in pattern and strategy. Many law aspirants often aim to appear for both exams to increase their chances of admission. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to prepare for both CLAT and AILET 2026 simultaneously, helping you make the most of your preparation time.
Understanding the CLAT and AILET Exams
CLAT 2026 is a comprehension-based test with 120 questions to be completed in 2 hours. It includes:
l English Language
l Current Affairs, including GK
l Legal Reasoning
l Logical Reasoning
l Quantitative Techniques
AILET 2026 is also 2 hours long, with 150 questions covering:
l English Language (50 questions)
l Current Affairs & GK (30 questions)
l Logical Reasoning (70 questions)
Note: AILET has removed the Legal Aptitude section but gives greater weight to Logical Reasoning.
Why Prepare for CLAT and AILET Together?
Overlap of Subjects: Both exams test English, Current Affairs, and Reasoning.
Time Efficiency: Instead of separate study plans, a combined strategy saves time.
Backup Plan: Doing well in both gives you two strong options for admission.
Key Differences Between CLAT and AILET
Criteria |
CLAT |
AILET |
Total Questions |
120 |
150 |
Exam Duration |
120 mins |
120 mins |
Legal Reasoning |
Included |
Not Included |
Logical Reasoning |
Moderate Weight |
Highest Weight (70 questions) |
Quantitative Techniques |
Included |
Not Included |
Marking Scheme |
+1, -0.25 |
+1, -0.25 |
Mode |
Offline |
Offline |
Similarities Between CLAT and AILET
l Both are offline, pen-paper-based exams.
l Negative marking is applicable.
l Comprehension-based English and Current Affairs sections.
l Require strong reading, reasoning, and time-management skills.
Section-Wise Preparation Strategy
1. English Language
l Focus on comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and inference-based questions.
l Practice editorials and opinion columns in newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express.
l Recommended book: Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi.
2. Current Affairs & GK
l Read newspapers daily and follow monthly current affairs digests.
l Focus on recent events (last 12-15 months), awards, government schemes, international affairs.
l Monthly magazines by CL, Drishti IAS, or Vision IAS are helpful.
3. Logical Reasoning
CLAT: Practice paragraph-based inference and assumption questions.
AILET: Prepare additional traditional LR topics like blood relations, series, and puzzles.
Recommended books:
l Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
l CL’s LR modules and topic-wise practice sheets
4. Legal Reasoning (Only for CLAT)
l Focus on comprehension of legal principles and application.
l Practice from CL Legal modules and past CLAT papers.
l Recommended Book: Legal Awareness and Legal Reasoning by AP Bhardwaj
5. Quantitative Techniques (Only for CLAT)
l Prepare basic arithmetic: percentages, profit-loss, ratio, averages, etc.
l Focus on DI-based comprehension (table, bar graph, caselets).
l Recommended Book: Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal
Recommended Books for CLAT & AILET
English: Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi, Word Power Made Easy
Current Affairs: CL Monthly Magazine, Drishti, Vision IAS
Logical Reasoning: R.S. Aggarwal, CL Modules
Legal Aptitude: AP Bhardwaj (for CLAT)
Quantitative Aptitude: R.S. Aggarwal (for CLAT)
Practice with PYQs and Mock Tests
l Solve the last 5 years’ papers for both CLAT and AILET to understand trends.
l Join mock test series by trusted institutes like Career Launcher.
l Time yourself and review mistakes critically.
Make a Realistic Plan and Stick to It
l Prepare a weekly schedule balancing both exams.
l Dedicate more time to Logical Reasoning due to its higher weightage in AILET.
l Include time for revision, mock analysis, and reading newspapers.
Conclusion Preparing for CLAT and AILET 2026 together may seem challenging at first, but with a smart, structured plan, it becomes manageable. Focus on common sections, build a solid reading habit, and regularly attempt mocks. By identifying the overlaps and adjusting your approach to the differences, you can confidently aim for top ranks in both exams. Start early, stay consistent, and let your preparation be guided by clarity and discipline. Best of luck!
Want expert guidance for CLAT and AILET 2026? Visit Career Launcher RDC Ghaziabad "https://www.careerlauncher.com/ghaziabad/" or call 8595342223, 9891868595 to join our expert-led classes and mock test programs.