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Tables of Contents for A Practical Guide to Writing Law School Essay Exams
Chapter/Section Title
Page #
Page Count
Introduction
ix
Knowing Your Reader
The purpose of essay exams
1
2
How class should prepare you for the exam
3
3
Exam preparation requires active learning
6
1
Preparing to Write
Time allocation
7
1
Allocate your time according to the value of the question
7
1
Treat each part as a separate exam
8
1
Issue spotting
8
6
Understand the question
9
1
Identify the basic legal rules that could plausibly be used to answer the question
9
5
Writing Your Essay
Identify each element of the rule
14
1
Apply each element to the relevant facts
15
1
Write a conclusion for each element and for each rule
16
5
Explaining Your Analysis
State and then answer the question
21
1
Identify and write each rule that corresponds to the question
22
3
Describe the rule accurately and precisely
22
2
Explain relevant terms and concepts for the rule
24
1
If two possible rules or elements could apply to the problem, use both if you have time
25
1
For each element
25
11
State (or restate) the element
25
1
Explain how the element applies to the facts of the problem
26
1
Use as many relevant facts as you can
26
2
Explain the relationship between the facts and your conclusion
28
1
Use the facts accurately
29
1
Use policies
30
1
Use common sense
30
1
State your reasons accurately and precisely
31
1
Make sure your reasons are relevant to the legal rule
31
1
State your conclusion
32
2
State and respond to counterarguments
34
2
Organization, Signposting, and Writing Style
Discuss each issue separately
36
2
Discuss each element or factor of a rule separately
38
1
Describe the law before you apply it to the facts
38
1
Signpost your discussion
38
1
Write well
39
1
Don't waste your time
40
1
Appendix: Sample Essays and Troubleshooting
41
Question 1
42
Question 2
56