Section B of the LNAT (Law National Aptitude Test) is the essay section. You will be presented with three essay topics on a variety of issues that may be controversial, social, philosophical, or political, and you need to select ONE of them to write a clear, structured, and thoughtful essay in 40 minutes. The word limit is approximately 500–600 words.
1. Understand the Question Thoroughly
● Take your time to read all three essays carefully, before making your choice.
● Pick the one you feel most able to discuss - not necessarily the topic you agree with most. ● Identify the important terms in the question and what is being asked ( e.g. "Should", "To what extent", "Is it ever right").
2. Plan Before You Write
Spend 5–7 minutes planning your essay. A clear plan helps keep your argument focused. Your plan should include:
● Your central argument (thesis)
● Three strong supporting arguments
● Possible counterarguments and your rebuttal to them
● A rough outline of the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
3. Write a Clear Introduction
● In your introduction, start briefly by rephrasing the question and stating your position. ● Include a thesis statement: your main argument in one sentence.
● Briefly explain/outline the essay structure (signposting).
4. Develop Coherent Body Paragraphs
Each paragraph should:
● Introduce a clear topic sentence
● Include evidence, examples, or reasoning
● Reference back to your overall thesis
Follow the PEEL structure:
● Point (make your point)
● Evidence (back it up with facts or logic)
● Explanation (why it matters)
● Link (lead to the next paragraph or the overall argument)
5. Consider the Counterargument
● Spend one paragraph outlining an alternative viewpoint.
● Show that you can think critically about other viewpoints.
● Then, logically refute that viewpoint, showing why your viewpoint is still stronger. 6. Write a Strong Conclusion
6. Write a Strong Conclusion
● Restate your main argument in a succinct way.
● Summarize your main points.
● Finish with a concluding thought or implication, i.e., why the issue matters.
7. Use Formal, Clear, and Precise Language
● Stay away from slang, contractions ("don’t ", "can't "), and overemphasized or overstated emotion.
● Aim for clarity and precision (not fancy words).
● Keep a logical structure and good grammar.
8. Time Management
● Spend 5–7 minutes planning
● 30–32 minutes writing
● 3–5 minutes reviewing and editing
Use the last few minutes to:
● Check grammar and spelling
● Make sure arguments are clear and concise
● Ensure you stayed on-topic
In conclusion, writing an effective LNAT Section B essay involves a clear understanding of the question, logically planned and strong arguments. Regularly practicing as well as taking a measured time to plan and write your essay, will leave you with a sense of confidence and somewhere in this process, increase your chances of success.
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