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LNAT Sample Essays

• Updated on  
• Dec 3, 2022

LNAT or National Admission test for law is an aptitude test that is conducted across 89 universities in the UK before offering admissions into their law programmes . Due to an ever increasing competition, this test was developed by oxford university to solve the problems faced by institutes with respect to shortlisting candidates. LNAT is mandatory for both home as well as international students, applying for law courses in the UK . LNAT is a 130 minute long exam that consists of 2 sections; an MCQ type and an essay type. In this blog we bring you various practise questions that’ll help you ace your LNAT Sample essays.  

LNAT Sample Essays: Structure and Format

While writing the essay it is important to keep the following points in mind in order to write a well-structured essay.

• What – try to understand the motion that is put forward. Is the motion based on law, politics, economics or ethics? What exactly is being asked of you? While writing the essay you are required to display high levels of critical thinking which must be visible in your essay.
• Why – ask yourself why this question is being asked? What could be the purpose of such a statement? Provide evidence to suggest the accuracy or inaccuracy of the motion. Question why you are required to use certain terms, phrases or literary technique. Your analytical ability and persuasiveness will be put to test.
• How- how is this statement concluded and what are the practicalities of implementing it? What are the ways in which this can be challenged? How can it be enforced and monitored? You will be required to provide solid logical reasoning and demonstrate how your answer forms a conclusion.
• What if – another question you must ask yourself is about the alternatives you have provided in your essay. Are there any views to consider? What are the practical implications of the arguments you have put forth? Can those be challenges? If yes, how? Weigh in both the strengths and weaknesses of your argument.

Practise Questions 

Here are some of the best questions that can help you practise for LNAT essays: 

• What disciplinary sanctions should teachers be allowed to use?
• Make the best case you can for public funding of the arts.
• How should judges be appointed?
• ‘It is right that students should contribute to the cost of their degrees.’ Do you agree?
• Does it matter if some animal and plant species die out?
• What is ‘political correctness’ and why does it matter?
• Should the law require people to vote in general elections?
• We must be prepared to sacrifice traditional liberties to defeat terrorism.’
• Should private cars be rationed? If so, how?
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LNAT Sample Essay

Should the privacy of the accused be maintained in Criminal legal proceedings?

The criminal justice system is rooted on the principle that the suspect is innocent until proven guilty by the court of law. This principle is applicable whether the person is renowned in the public sphere, therefore making the case susceptible to prejudice or someone wholly anonymous. Therefore, I am of the opinion that wherever possible, the anonymity of the accused ought to be maintained. There are several reasons to believe so. Firstly and most importantly, the legal system ought to be free from biases and prejudices. Secondly, publishing the accused’s identity does not serve public interest. It would be a gross breach of an individual’s right to privacy when publishing the identity.

The nature of the legal process is a dialectic process; it is a rule of thumb that the prosecutor must prove the guilt of the accused beyond reasonable doubt.  the defence ought to cast doubt on the case of the prosecution or prove the defendant’s innocence. This process necessitates the gathering of evidence, familiarity with the facts pertinent to the case and precedents set by the previous cases. If a defendant’s anonymity is compromised that could potentially colour the legal proceedings with public prejudice. This would be antithetical to the very nature of legal process. 

A public bias is as dangerous as any other bias and can impact the legal proceedings in negative ways. Therefore there is the possibility that the disclosure of the accused’s identity can impact the objectivity of the court. The accused only ought to be tried by the court and not by the media. 

To elaborate on the 2nd issue, the publishing of the accused identity can be extremely counterproductive and in general unhelpful to the public interest. Media trials can be extremely dehumanizing which apart from affecting the trial can additionally impact the accused life if found to be innocent.  

Most importantly, an individual’s right to privacy has been recognized as a fundamental right. A man acquitted 100 times is the same as a man once or never prosecuted at all, but seldom do the larger public view the situation from a legal perspective. The person may never escape the humiliation and public prejudice of having once been accused. 

In conclusion, I’d like to reiterate the importance of maintaining anonymity in a case of criminal accusation. It is a fair argument that the public at large ought to know the argument of the criminal who threatens their safety and security, however the principles of law dictates that a person is innocent until proven guilty. By abiding by this view, we can maintain the objectivity of the court and preserve the dignity of the accused.

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This was all about LNAT essay questions. We hope this blog has given you a brief Idea as to how to go about your essay. In case you need additional guidance in navigating various aptitude tests and exams, get in touch with our experts at Leverage Edu today! Call us immediately at 1800 57 2000 for a free 30-minute counselling session.

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LNAT Essay Questions

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LNAT Essay Examples 2024 – 2025 LNAT Essay Question Bank with Model Answers Sample Essays

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The Law National Admissions Test (LNAT) is an essential part of the application process for some of the top law schools in the United Kingdom. The essay section, in particular, holds significant weight, as it gauges an applicant’s ability to critically analyze, form logical arguments, and effectively communicate ideas. The essay is also an opportunity for students to display their language skills.

In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at LNAT essays, including some examples, structure, format, word limit, scoring, questions, mark scheme, and essay writing tips.

Also included below is a comprehensive LNAT Essay Question Bank, with 90 essay questions or prompts – each linked to model or sample essay for that question.

Types of Questions

LNAT essay questions typically cover a range of topics, including politics, law, ethics, and social issues. These questions require you to form a well-reasoned argument on a complex, open-ended subject. You must demonstrate your ability to analyze various perspectives, draw upon evidence, and communicate your thoughts effectively.

Remember, essay type questions are subjective in nature – i.e., the same essay when read by two different assessors, may be perceived in two different ways. Therefore, it becomes essential to keep the essay as balanced as possible; displaying equal consideration to both sides of an argument.

Choosing the Right Question

When selecting an essay question, consider your familiarity with the topic, your ability to formulate a strong argument, and the availability of supporting evidence. Choose a question that allows you to showcase your analytical skills, critical thinking, and writing prowess.

Do not choose a question on the basis of how strongly you feel about the topic; instead, choose on the basis of how much can you write about the topic.

A common factor among all the LNAT Essay Questions is that they do not have any particular ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ answer. They are just testing your ability to construct, convey and defend an argument.

LNAT Essay Question Examples

These are some examples of what the LNAT Essay questions or essay prompts look like.

LNAT Essay Example 1: “Should the death penalty be abolished worldwide?”

This essay can begin with a brief overview of the history of capital punishment and then proceed to discuss the moral, legal, and social implications of the death penalty. The essay can delve into the arguments for and against capital punishment, touching on issues such as deterrence, retribution, and human rights. The conclusion should summarize the arguments presented and offer a final viewpoint on the issue.

Click here to read a model / sample essay on the above topic.

LNAT Essay Example 2: “Does a strong welfare system promote laziness and dependence?”

This essay should explore the nature of welfare systems, their goals, and their potential drawbacks. The author can consider the arguments that support and oppose welfare systems, addressing concerns such as economic efficiency, social cohesion, and individual responsibility. The conclusion should weigh the pros and cons of strong welfare systems and provide a balanced, informed opinion on the matter.

LNAT Essay Example 3: “Should governments regulate social media to combat fake news?”

This sample essay can discuss the phenomenon of fake news, its impact on society, and the role of social media platforms in its propagation. The essay should examine the responsibilities of social media companies and the potential consequences of government intervention. By providing concrete examples and case studies, the author can present a well-reasoned argument on the issue.

LNAT Essay Example 4: “Do privacy concerns outweigh the benefits of mass surveillance in combating terrorism?”

In this sample essay, the author can discuss the balance between individual privacy and national security. The essay should explore the effectiveness of mass surveillance in preventing terrorist attacks and consider the potential dangers of government overreach. The conclusion should address whether the benefits of mass surveillance justify the erosion of privacy rights.

LNAT Essay Structure and Format

A well-structured essay is crucial to effectively communicating your ideas and ensuring a logical flow of arguments. A clear structure allows your reader to follow your line of reasoning easily, resulting in a more persuasive essay.

The hook is the opening sentence or two of an essay, designed to grab the reader’s attention and pique their interest. It often includes a thought-provoking statement, an interesting fact, a quote, or a question. The goal of the hook is to entice the reader to continue reading and become engaged with the essay’s subject matter.

Introduction

Following the hook, the introduction sets the stage for the essay by providing context and background information. It introduces the topic and provides an overview of what the essay will discuss. The introduction should be engaging and informative, giving the reader a sense of the essay’s purpose and direction.

The thesis statement is a crucial part of the essay, as it presents the main argument or point that the essay will address. It is typically included at the end of the introduction and serves as a roadmap for the rest of the essay. A strong thesis statement is clear, concise, and arguable, allowing the reader to understand the essay’s focus and what the author aims to prove or demonstrate.

Body paragraphs

Body paragraphs form the core of the essay, each one dedicated to a specific aspect of the thesis statement. They should be organized logically, with clear transitions between them, and each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that outlines its main point. This structure helps the reader follow the essay’s argument and ensures that each point is developed and supported effectively.

Evidence is the factual information, examples, and data that support the essay’s arguments. It is crucial for establishing the credibility of the essay and convincing the reader of the validity of the author’s claims. Each body paragraph should include relevant and well-researched evidence to back up its main point and demonstrate the truth of the thesis statement.

Arguments and Counterarguments

A well-rounded essay not only presents the author’s arguments but also addresses potential counterarguments or opposing viewpoints. This demonstrates the author’s understanding of the complexity of the topic and adds depth to the essay. By acknowledging and refuting counterarguments, the author strengthens their own argument and persuades the reader more effectively.

The conclusion is the final section of the essay, in which the author restates the thesis, summarizes the main points, and offers a closing thought or call to action. It should leave the reader with a sense of closure and a full understanding of the essay’s purpose and main arguments. The conclusion should not introduce new information but instead tie together the essay’s main points and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

LNAT Essay Word Limit

The ideal length of the LNAT essay is around 600 words. In any case, the LNAT essay screen has a built-in word limit of 750 words.

Given that you will have to write, edit and polish your essay within 40 minutes, the 600 word length is the most practical approach.

These days, many users prefer using their smart phones or tablets / iPads for daily tasks – so it is essential to get a good amount of practice using a regular keyboard.

LawMint LNAT Practice Test series includes 30 full length timed practice tests – with 90 essay questions. We strongly recommend that you should select a different essay question in each attempt, to practice writing on a wide range of topics.

Strategies for Staying within the Word Limit

To stay within the word limit,

• Take a couple of minutes to plan your essay before you start writing.
• Type in the main section headlines first – hook, introduction, thesis, body paragraphs, arguments / counter arguments, conclusion.
• Outline your main points and allocate a specific number of words to each section.
• Remember – A crisp and well articulated essay will fetch more marks than a long and verbose one.

As you write, keep track of your word count and adjust your arguments as necessary to ensure that you do not exceed the limit.

LNAT Essay Score

The LNAT essay is not marked automatically or assessed by Pearson VUE. The essay is sent ‘as is’ to the universities you have chosen while registering for the LNAT.

Universities will evaluate your essay as per their own criteria. Some may give it significant weightage and assess it formally. Others may read the essay only if required to differentiate between two or more candidates with similar LNAT MCQ scores and academic achievements.

General Assessment Criteria

Your LNAT essay will generally be assessed based on your ability to form a coherent argument, use evidence and examples to support your claims, and express your ideas clearly and concisely.

Your essay will also be evaluated on its overall structure, logical flow, and the quality of your writing, including grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

Maximizing Your Essay Score: To maximize your LNAT essay score, ensure that you address the essay prompt directly and comprehensively. Develop a strong thesis statement, and build your essay around it, using appropriate evidence and examples. Be sure to maintain a balanced perspective by acknowledging counterarguments and providing thoughtful, well-reasoned responses.

Remember! – The LNAT Essay screen does not have automatic proofreading. Unlike in normal browser text fields, spelling errors will not be highlighted. Ensure that you proofread your essays carefully to eliminate any errors in grammar, punctuation, or spelling.

LNAT Essay Tips

Plan and outline.

Before you begin writing, take the time to plan and outline your essay. Identify the main points you want to make, organize them logically, and allocate a specific word count to each section. This will help you stay within the word limit and ensure that your essay flows smoothly.

Balance Your Arguments

A strong LNAT essay should present a balanced view of the issue, acknowledging opposing perspectives and addressing counterarguments. This demonstrates your ability to think critically and consider multiple viewpoints, which is an essential skill for a successful law student.

Edit and Proofread

After completing your essay, set it aside for a short period before returning to it for editing and proofreading. This allows you to approach your work with fresh eyes and identify any errors or inconsistencies. Make sure your essay is free from grammatical, punctuation, and spelling errors, and ensure that your arguments are clear and logically organized.

LNAT Essay Question Bank

This is a list of 90 LNAT Essay Questions that are included in LawMint LNAT Practice Tests. Practice writing a 600 word essay on each of these questions. Click on the links to see the sample essays that can provide you with some ideas and suggestions.

• Are mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses an effective way to combat drug abuse?
• Are remote work policies effective in promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
• Are safe spaces on college campuses beneficial for promoting open dialogue and inclusivity?
• Are universal background checks for gun purchases an effective way to reduce gun violence?
• Are whistleblowers morally justified in breaking the law to expose corruption?
• Are zero-tolerance policies in schools effective in promoting discipline and safety?
• Artificial Intelligence will not significantly transform the legal sector. Share your perspective.
• Can a policy of complete open borders be justified? Discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks.
• Can a universal basic income help to reduce poverty and income inequality?
• Can automation and artificial intelligence lead to greater social equality
• Can freedom of speech be limited in the interest of public safety?
• Can hate speech laws infringe on freedom of expression? Discuss the potential consequences.
• Can intrusive surveillance measures be justified in the name of national security?
• Can societies achieve gender equality without affirmative action policies?
• Can strict regulations on businesses lead to better corporate social responsibility?
• Can the use of alternative energy sources alone solve the global energy crisis? Discuss the challenges.
• Can the use of economic sanctions be justified as a non-violent means of conflict resolution?
• Can the widespread adoption of electric vehicles significantly reduce air pollution?
• Can there be valid reasons for withholding information from the public during a trial? If so, under what circumstances?
• Discuss the ethical implications of regulating potentially harmful activities, such as extreme sports or certain sexual practices.
• Discuss the ethical implications of using genetic screening for non-medical purposes, such as choosing a child’s physical traits.
• Discuss the ethics and potential risks of using gene editing technologies, such as CRISPR, in humans.
• Discuss the morality and effectiveness of implementing a universal basic income.
• How essential is the right to privacy in a democratic society? Can it ever be limited?
• Implementing a ‘Corporate Death Penalty’ could prevent businesses from violating the law. Agree or disagree?
• In cases of conflicting patient and doctor opinions, whose perspective should take precedence?
• In cases of online harassment or bullying, should platforms or individuals be held responsible?
• In sexual assault cases, the accused should bear the burden of proof.
• In the future, should parents have the option to genetically modify their children?
• Is a wealth tax an effective way to address income inequality? Discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks.
• Is censorship of media during times of crisis ever justified?
• Is implementing quotas the sole solution for achieving gender equality in the workplace? Provide your perspective.
• Is it ethical for companies to use unpaid internships as a form of labor? Discuss the implications for young professionals and the job market.
• Is it ethical for employers to monitor their employees’ online activity during work hours?
• Is it ethical for governments to use lotteries as a source of revenue? Discuss the potential consequences.
• Is it ethical for governments to use targeted killings as a counterterrorism measure?
• Is it ethical for researchers to use animals in scientific experiments? Discuss the scientific and ethical implications.
• Is the Right to be Forgotten essential for maintaining individual freedom?
• Laws should prioritize individual liberties over public safety. Do you agree or disagree?
• Mandatory retirement ages should be abolished. Do you agree or disagree?
• Organ donation after death should be made compulsory. Do you agree? Discuss the ethical implications.
• Should access to higher education be a universal right? Discuss the implications for society.
• Should corporal punishment be allowed as a form of discipline in schools?
• Should countries adopt a four-day work week to improve work-life balance?
• Should countries adopt a universal healthcare system?
• Should euthanasia be legalized for patients with terminal illnesses?
• Should governments focus on creating jobs or providing social safety nets?
• Should governments focus on long-term sustainability or immediate economic growth?
• Should governments prioritize environmental protection over economic growth?
• Should governments prioritize space exploration over addressing pressing issues on Earth?
• Should governments prioritize the well-being of their citizens over economic growth?
• Should internet access be considered a human right?
• Should legal measures be taken to prevent the ‘Uberization’ of industries?
• Should mandatory diversity training be implemented in the workplace?
• Should mandatory military service be implemented in all countries?
• Should medical professionals prioritize patient autonomy or medical ethics in treatment decisions?
• Should military intervention ever be justified on humanitarian grounds?
• Should nations prioritize investing in renewable energy over maintaining fossil fuel industries?
• Should parents have the right to opt their children out of sex education classes?
• Should political advertisements on social media be regulated?
• Should politicians prioritize long-term goals or short-term gains when making policy decisions?
• Should politicians with controversial views be allowed to run for office?
• Should public figures have the same privacy rights as ordinary citizens?
• Should religious institutions be exempt from certain laws, such as anti-discrimination legislation?
• Should restrictions be placed on strike rights rather than limiting CEO compensation?
• Should social media platforms be held accountable for the spread of fake news?
• Should social media platforms be responsible for moderating the content shared by their users?
• Should standardized testing be the primary factor in college admissions?
• Should the death penalty be abolished? Discuss the moral and practical arguments.
• Should the government fund and promote the arts?
• Should the government provide free internet access to all citizens?
• Should the government regulate the content of news media to combat misinformation?
• Should the legal age for marriage be raised to prevent child marriages?
• Should the legal age for purchasing cigarettes be raised to 21?
• Should the legal age to vote be lowered to 16?
• Should the sharing economy be more tightly regulated to protect workers’ rights?
• Should the use of animals for entertainment purposes, such as circuses and zoos, be prohibited?
• Should the use of facial recognition technology by law enforcement be regulated?
• Should the use of performance-enhancing drugs be permitted in professional sports?
• Should there be a cap on campaign spending for political candidates?
• Should there be a maximum age limit for political candidates?
• Should vaccinations be mandatory for all citizens, with few exceptions?
• The legal age for consuming alcohol should be raised to 21. Do you agree or disagree?
• Under what circumstances is civil disobedience morally justifiable?
• Under what circumstances, if any, can the use of nuclear weapons be justified or excused?
• University admissions should be based solely on merit. Do you agree or disagree?
• When selecting judges, should diversity be a factor in the decision-making process?
• Which is more important, individual privacy or national security?
• Who should have the final say on human rights: elected officials or constitutional courts?
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Sample LNAT Essay and Advice

Introduction.

The Essay forms an important part of the LNAT. Students often underestimate it, yet certain Universities place quite a considerable emphasis on the Essay in the admissions process. Head over to our Guide about LNAT Universities & Required Scores to find out more (we recommend paying attention to the official LNAT Essay mark scheme as released by University of Oxford).

Having said that, performing well in your Essay will be of great advantage to your application. The tutors are looking for candidates who possess a high level of written skill, since the study of Law revolves around delivering exceptional written arguments. Furthermore, law exams are famously known for consisting of hours dedicated to writing essays in a summative format.

To write a great essay, you need to practise under timed conditions, be well-versed on various topics, and continually analyse your performance. In particular, you should consider the following suggestions:

Be concise and succinct

Be persuasive, sample lnat essay, question: should people accused of a criminal offence retain anonymity.

“The Criminal Justice System is predicated on the supposition of innocence until guilt is proven in a court of law. This principle applies whether the defendant is known to the public and hence subject to public prejudices, or wholly anonymous prior to the alleged offence. I believe and shall argue that, wherever possible, the anonymity of the accused ought to be persevered. My reasons for thinking so are several; that the legal process must be as free from bias as is feasible; that the public interest is not served by the publishing of the accused’s identity and that the right of the individual to privacy would be breached in the publication.

First, one must consider what is the nature of the legal process; it is a dialectic process in which the prosecutor must prove the guilt of the accused beyond reasonable doubt; the defence must either cast doubt on the case of the prosecution or prove the defendant’s innocence outright. This will require the gathering of many articles of evidence and an extensive familiarity with the facts pertinent to the case, as well as the stipulations of the law and the precedents set by previous cases. It would be antithetical to the very nature of the legal process to allow public prejudice to colour the legal proceedings, as it potentially would in the case that the defendant’s anonymity was compromised. A beloved darling of the people would excite a general clamour in his or her defence; a public pariah would arouse the most damning of execration.

A public bias is no less heinous than any other sort of bias and it could be argued that in magnitude it far outweighs the others. Thus, the objectivity of the court, which must be assumed a priori, can only be degraded by the general knowledge of the accused’s identity and can never be served by it. The accused ought only to be tried by a court and never by mob or media.

Second, any action by a public body, such as the police or the judiciary, ought to be in service of the public interest. It is in the public interest to seek the perpetrator of a crime, as it is to punish those found guilty and to publish their names so that they may be known as criminals to the public whom they have offended. It is hard to see how the publication of an accused person’s identity can serve the public good. In the event that they are innocent, the accused will be forever the subject of suspicion in certain quarters and may suffer reprisals from members of the public who are not satisfied by the outcome of the trial. In the event that the accused is guilty, then their guilt will be published and the public will thereby learn all of the relevant details. This is not to suggest that criminal cases ought to be tried in secret courts; persons with an intimate connection either to the accused or the victim ought to be entitled to observe the proceedings, in which case the preservation of anonymity becomes a matter of individual conscience.

Third, the individual who has been accused must be afforded the general right to privacy. Legally speaking man acquitted a hundred times is as innocent as a man acquitted but once or never prosecuted at all, but the public rarely considers criminal matters from a legal perspective; if it were so, then courts would hardly be necessary. It is precisely because certain elements of the public are quick to judge and often liable to punish unjustly that a legal system is required in order to provide due process and to prevent the miscarriage of justice. The circumstances of a crime may excite unease and discontentment in many and a person may never escape the taint of having once been accused of a crime of which they were never guilty. In some cases, suspects have been killed prior to their trials; most notably, perhaps is Lee Harvey Oswald, thanks to whose death we may never know the true circumstances of the terrible crime of which he stood accused.

In conclusion, I reaffirm the importance of anonymity in the case of a criminal accusation. For whilst the public is entitled to know the identity of criminals who threaten their security and against whom the state has levied punishment, it is imperative that we presume the defendant to be innocent until guilt is confessed or proved. Upon this principle we may hope to preserve the objectivity of the court and the dignity of the accused.”

There is no exhaustive list that will allow you to write amazing essays. It is truly the case of ‘practice makes perfect’ (and being widely read!). So maybe you are tempted to write an answer to this sample LNAT Essay Question?

Well, Arbitio allows you to do just that: we have developed an Essay Writing Simulator that accurately recreates the LNAT exam environment and provided you with 20+ Questions on a variety of topics reflective of the LNAT curriculum. The Model Answers to each Essay Question will help you see what good essay writing is all about, with some salient points you may wish to adopt into your argumentative arsenal. The subscription includes Essay Marking Service, where one of our tutors will deliver detailed feedback on an essay of your choice.

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• LNAT Preparation: The Complete Guide

Last Updated: 27th May 2022

Author: Chloe Hewitt

• Admissions Test

Table of Contents

If you are applying for Law at Oxford, Cambridge, or other top universities, one of the biggest hurdles you will be faced with is the LNAT.

Unlike any test you have ever done before, ensuring you have effectively prepared for the LNAT will make all the difference when it comes to scoring highly.

But how can you prepare for the LNAT? This guide runs through each of the two sections of the LNAT, explaining the skills that will be required to succeed and the ways you can develop your understanding and improve your technique. Before we dive into Section A, let’s review the basics of the LNAT. 

What is the LNAT?

If you aren’t familiar with the LNAT, check out our LNAT Basics Guide before continuing, as you’re going to need to know how the LNAT is structured, how it is marked and why it is used. If you know about the LNAT already, here is a very quick recap.

The Law National Admissions Test (LNAT) is an entrance exam used by a consortium of UK universities to assess prospective undergraduate law students. The LNAT is used to supplement other selection procedures — your A-level results, personal statement, and admissions interview — not to test your knowledge of the law. Instead, the computer-based exam assesses critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.

What is the structure of the LNAT?

The LNAT has a time limit of two hours and 15 minutes and is divided into two parts: Section A, a set of multiple-choice questions, and Section B, an essay writing task. These tasks are separated and each has a set time to complete, with 95 minutes to complete Section A and 40 minutes to complete Section B.

Effective LNAT preparation is crucial to achieving an offer, so let UniAdmissions guide you through it. 

The LNAT is a major part of your Law application, so make sure you’re ready for it with guidance from experts. Our LNAT Tuition Programme supports you through every aspect of the test through One-to-One Tuition, Live Courses, Comprehensive Materials and much more . 

Discover our LNAT Tuition Programme by booking a free consultation session by clicking the button below to enrol and triple your chances of success .

LNAT Section A Preparation

In Section A, you will have 95 minutes to answer 42 multiple-choice questions based on 12 passages of text provided. This means that you’ll need to complete three to four questions per passage. There will be five possible answers to each question, but only one will be correct.

You do not need to have any particular knowledge to complete Section A. However, you must spend time preparing for LNAT Section A to know what to expect during the test. As part of your LNAT Section A preparation, it is also a good idea to practice the skills the admissions tutors are looking for applicants to demonstrate. It would be worth brushing up on these skills so you are confident when it comes to the test.

What does LNAT Section A test?

Section A is all about your comprehension and reasoning skills. The admissions tutors want to know that you can understand, analyse and interpret information. In the test, you will need to work out what the question is asking, pinpoint which part of the text is relevant, and choose the best answer from the multiple-choice answers provided. This will need to be done using the following:

• Comprehension
• Interpretation

The LNAT is also used to identify if students can understand different parts of a passage. An integral point to understand is what constitutes a good argument. These are:

Evidence : arguments based on opinions and value judgements are weaker than those based on facts and evidence.

Logic : arguments should flow and the constituent parts should fit well into an overriding view or belief.

Balance : a good argument should concede that there are other views and beliefs (counter-arguments). Creating a strong argument involves dismantling these ideas and explaining why they are wrong.

What do you need to know for LNAT Section A?

Here are a few key ideas that you will need to revise and prepare for before sitting Section A of the LNAT:

ARGUMENTS vs ASSERTIONS vs EXPLANATIONS

ARGUMENTS vs ASSERTIONS

 vs EXPLANATIONS

The following clip is from a UniAdmissions LNAT Live Course, in which our expert tutor explains how you can determine the differences between these three types of discussion within a passage:

PREMISE vs CONCLUSION

• A conclusion is a summary of the arguments being made and is usually explicitly stated or heavily implied.
• A premise is a statement from which another statement can be inferred or follows as a conclusion.

Hence, a conclusion is shown/implied/proven by a premise. Similarly, a premise shows/indicates/establishes a conclusion.

FACT vs OPINION

Sometimes you will be required to distinguish between a fact and an opinion.

• Fact is something that can be tested to be true or false.
• Opinion cannot be tested to be true or false.

CORRELATION vs CAUSATION

Just because two incidents or events have occurred does not mean that one has caused the other. For example:  “French people are known for having a glass of wine with dinner and they have a larger life expectancy than we do. Therefore, we should consume wine to be healthier.”

This argument is flawed. There are 2 events: (i) French people known for having wine and (ii) French people having a larger life expectancy. There is no suggestion in the extract that (i) wine is causally related to (ii) or that having wine actually leads to a longer life. Accordingly, in itself, the premises do not adequately support the conclusion – there could be other reasons such as diet or exercise.

How should I prepare for LNAT Section A?

1. Read a wide range of texts

As Section A assesses your ability to comprehend and analyse texts, it is important to improve your reading comprehension. You can do this by studying a variety of quality texts, such as news articles, academic journals, and literature, and then summarising the main points. Be sure to identify the tone and analyse the author’s argument.

2. Practice thinking critically

As you read these texts, you should check your understanding by asking yourself questions on their meaning, such as:

• Is the statement one of fact or opinion?
• Have you focused on the detail or jumped to a conclusion?
• Have you made a logical deduction about the information?
• Is there something in the statement that has been left unsaid?
• Is the statement supported by evidence?
• What is the writer’s attitude? For example, are they being serious or making a joke?
• Is the statement relevant or irrelevant to the question?

If there are ambiguities, they are assessing how well you cope with ambiguities. However, the solution is always in the passage somewhere. 

3. Practice your Time Management

Time management skills are crucial for the LNAT. With 95 minutes to answer 42 questions, that gives you roughly two and a quarter minutes to answer each question. In fact, many students find the most difficult part of the test is not answering all of the questions correctly, but doing so under its timed conditions and working at a steady pace.

Decide how long you want to spend on each passage of text and the multiple-choice questions. You have 95 minutes to complete Section A, therefore you could decide to spend 7 minutes reading each passage of text and then answer the connected questions. The remaining 11 minutes could then be used to go back over any questions you found difficult.

4. Understand the format of the test

It is essential to familiarise yourself with the format of the LNAT, including the types of questions that may appear in Section A. To do so, you should definitely take advantage of the official practice tests available, which will help develop your understanding of the test structure and the types of questions you may encounter on the day.

Extra LNAT Section A Tips

• Read the question carefully and make sure you understand what is being asked.
• Look for any keywords in the question and answer options before reading the passage of text.
• When you then go on to read the passage of text, look out for those keywords.
• Consider the questions listed above when deciding what a statement means and selecting your answer.
• Use a process of elimination to find the correct answer. By discounting the incorrect answer options, it helps to narrow down the answers until you are left with one.
• If you are unable to narrow the options down to just one, then go with your gut feeling when selecting an answer and come back to it later.
• No points will be deducted for an incorrect answer, so make sure you answer every question even if you are unsure.

One of the hallmarks of a good multiple-choice question is the inclusion of one or more answer options that are wrong but almost right. Questions like this are not tricks. They are there to test whether your powers of discrimination are fine-grained or coarse-grained. Work hard to find and eliminate them.

Boost your LNAT Score with expert support from UniAdmissions.

With our LNAT Tuition Programme, you will have complete guidance for both Sections of the LNAT, with regular tuition from an expert tutor and a whole suite of revision and practice resources to get yourself ready. 

LNAT Section B Preparation

In this section, you will be presented with a choice of three essay questions, and you will be required to answer one of them in a well-structured, persuasive manner under a time limit of 40 minutes.

What does LNAT Section B test?

To answer Section B of the LNAT, you will need to have strong critical thinking and analytical skills, good writing skills and a strong command of written English. You need to be able to communicate your ideas clearly and coherently, structure your essay effectively, and present your arguments in a logical and persuasive manner.

Having a good knowledge of current affairs will also work in your favour. The admissions tutors really like to see interesting and creative arguments which are backed up by evidence rather than opinions. Focus on these skills in your LNAT Section B preparation.

1.Choosing your question

As mentioned, you have three options for your essay. We have a video snippet from our Law Programme in which our tutor Amy Gregg goes through the explanation of selecting the right question.

We’d recommend you take two minutes to read all the questions! While one essay might seem easy, you may find you run out of points and arguments. Using your time wisely will enable you to gauge how comfortable you are with a topic from your background knowledge.

2. Remember to Plan your essay

There are many reasons why you should plan your essay before you begin writing. These include:

• You don’t have much space so you need to make it count!
• It allows you to get your thoughts down on paper before writing
• You’ll write faster once you have a plan
• You run the risk of missing the point if you don’t plan

There’s no set period of time that should be dedicated to planning. This differs for everyone because everyone is different! You should spend as long as you want planning, provided you have enough time to legibly write your essay. As a rough guide, we’d recommend 5-10 minutes.

3. Learn how to structure your essay

It is important that your essay has a clear framework and logical progression, such as the following structure:

• Introduction: introduce the topic and give a brief outline of what you will discuss.
• Main argument: discuss the facts in favour of your position.
• Counter-argument: present arguments to the contrary.
• Conclusion: state what you believe and why.

You can then begin to structure your essay, including the way that points will be linked. At this stage, it is worth considering the balance of your argument and confirming that you have considered arguments from both sides of the debate. Once this general structure has been established, it is useful to consider any examples or real-world information that may help to support your arguments.

Finally, you can begin to assess the plan as a whole and establish what your conclusion will be based on your arguments. You can use a variety of methods to actually put your ideas down, whether this is a mind map, bullet points or PROs and CONs, use what is best for you.

4. Practise timed essay writing

Section B of the LNAT requires you to write a 500-750 word essay in 40 minutes, so it’s important to get used to writing under strict time constraints. To get started, we recommend working with the sample essay topics , focusing on building a compelling argument with a logical structure. It may be beneficial to begin writing without time constraints before gradually picking up the pace.

Never avoid writing about topics you do not know much about. This can be dangerous for your LNAT score in the exam if only topics you are uncomfortable with come up. If you need someone to look over some practice essay answers for the LNAT and provide any guidance, then ask our LNAT tutors to mark your essay .

5. Review top-scoring essays

The LNAT website not only lists sample topics, but provides top-scoring answers to certain questions, such as “Does it matter if some animal and plant species die out?”. It is strongly recommended to read through these, to gauge how you should present your argument and get an idea of what the examiners are looking for.

Writing an LNAT Essay

To give you an idea of what you should be trying to achieve with your LNAT Section B essay, we’ll do a brief worked example together. Consider the question: “Abortion should only be permitted in certain circumstances.” Discuss.

Introduction

Present a brief outline of what you will discuss. In this case, you should clearly define “Abortion” (e.g. the termination of a pregnancy). If you wish, you can highlight the key themes that will run through the essay, but keep it short!

You should have a bunch of points written down that you can call on for this section. Here are some points considering arguing for abortion we came up with during the planning stage:

In the event of a medical issue

Disability of the child

Sexual assault

The mother wants to give up the foetus

The mother is too young

You now have a choice of several points you can use, but you can’t go into detail for all of them! You should focus on the  quality  not  quantity  of points made. Choose the points from which you can make the most original contribution.

Once you have chosen your points, you should create a structure:

Paragraph 1: Disability of the child

Paragraph 2: Sexual assault

Paragraph 3: In the event of a medical issue

You should then write PROs and CONs of each point for each paragraph. Ensure you have a balanced essay that considers all points of view fairly. Thinking about all elements of an argument is important; thinking of alternative views can strengthen your argument for or against something.

Here you will bring together the points from the main body. You shouldn’t bring any new points into the conclusion, focus just on what you have previously spoken about. If you have summarised each point in the main body, then a shorter conclusion will suffice, and vice versa.

Extra LNAT Section B Tips

• The ideal LNAT essay is 500-600 words long. If you write less than this your essay will be too short to be evaluated properly and you are unlikely to do well.
• You should try and remove repetition, surplus words, and digressions. This kind of discipline will be rewarded.
• Do not sit on the fence or say that each side of the argument has a point unless you go on to say which point each side has. This is different from considering both sides and will come off as indecisive. 
• Your opinions do not matter, all the Admissions Tutors are interested in seeing is your ability to defend a position which may or may not be your own personal opinion.
• Do not try and impress with fancy words or elaborate style that have no substance. Be straightforward in your writing and your argument.

Practical Preparation for the LNAT

Preparing for the LNAT isn’t all about practising for the questions, however. There are some practical considerations to keep in mind, away from the content of the Admissions Test itself. You will need to ensure you are ready to attend the actual test, or else you may face complications before you even see the paper. 

Make sure to check the deadlines for the universities you are applying to and remember that test places get booked up quickly. Do not leave it until the last minute. It should go without saying, but you must ensure that your chosen universities actually require the LNAT first. Doing some research into how these unis use the LNAT will also help you set your expectations for the minimum you should achieve. 

If you are applying for Oxford or Cambridge, you will need to have sat the LNAT on or before 15 th October. If you are not applying to Oxbridge, you have until 25 th January.

Make sure to take photo identification and a printout of your confirmation email to the test centre with you. Arrive 20 minutes early, as if you are late, you may not be allowed to sit the test.

Ultimately, passing the LNAT test is a challenging but achievable goal, but by following these steps for your LNAT preparation, you can improve your chances of doing so and pave the way towards a rewarding future in Law.

What you have got to remember that the LNAT is your opportunity to demonstrate to the Admissions Tutors that you are capable of succeeding at an academically demanding subject. As long as you use your skills of deduction for the multiple-choice questions and argue coherently in your essay you are sure to do well. 

Remember, the LNAT is not designed to trip you up. Its purpose is to allow you to demonstrate the skills that are necessary for a career in Law. Following these tips and effectively preparing for the test will improve your chances of getting a good LNAT Score .

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LNAT Essay: Top 6 Tips

Tackling the LNAT essay in 40 minutes is daunting, but crucial for showcasing your skills to every university you apply to.

The LNAT essay section throws you into a world of diverse topics, demanding the construction and articulation of a strong argument. Within the 40-minute time frame, you must craft an essay that resonates with each university requiring the LNAT . This section acts as a litmus test, allowing universities to evaluate crucial skills in prospective law students. Here are six lnat tips and practice prompts to help you tackle this essay component with confidence.

1. Master the Art of Concise Essay Writing

How much should I write for the LNAT essay? If you are unsure, target an essay length of 500-600 words within the 750-word limit. In order to be able to do this during the exam, you need to dedicate 40 minutes to practice, including 10 minutes for planning. This mirrors the time constraints of law exams, emphasising the importance of succinctness. Regular practice will hone your ability to respond effectively within the given timeframe, elevating your overall performance.

Practice Prompt : Enhance your skills by tackling a prompt such as “Examine the impact of artificial intelligence on legal decision-making.” This not only sharpens your time management but also familiarises you with diverse topics, preparing you for the unpredictable nature of LNAT essay questions.

2. Plan Your Essay Response

Effective planning is the cornerstone of a stellar LNAT essay . Dedicate time within the 40-minute window to plan efficiently, employing techniques like mind maps, bullet points, lists, or flow charts. A well-crafted plan not only establishes a good lnat essay structure but also ensures a defensible position and acts as a guiding reference during potential mental blocks. This process is instrumental in question selection, providing a rough plan for each option.

Practice Prompt: Confront a prompt on the ethical considerations of artificial intelligence in law by constructing a mind map . Outline key arguments, supporting evidence, and a clear thesis. This visual roadmap not only streamlines your writing process but also enhances the coherence and persuasiveness of your essay.

3. Familiarise Yourself with the Topic

Part B the LNAT essay is primarily testing your ability to form an argument and defend it. It is only useful to use your own personal expertise in answering the question if it adds to the argument you are advancing. Therefore, if you know you can still create a defensible position then don’t let lack of knowledge hold you back.

Having parents, teachers or friends make up a series of questions for you to practice writing is incredibly helpful in getting yourself ready to face questions you have never seen before. For example, one of my questions was based on artificial intelligence – something I know nothing about but was still able to write a good argument on.

Practice Prompt : Imagine encountering a question on space exploration, an unfamiliar topic. Focus on your ability to construct a logical argument rather than detailed knowledge. Practice with questions outside your comfort zone, like “Should private companies be involved in space exploration?”

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4. Pick a side

Emphasising the importance of taking a stance cannot be overstated. Choose a side and work diligently to persuade the reader that your argument is superior. While acknowledging opposing views is crucial, your goal is to convincingly reject them in favor of your own position. Be open to recognising the merits of arguments contrary to your personal opinions, as this adds depth and persuasiveness to your essay.

Practice Prompt : If prompted to discuss the death penalty, choose a stance and build your argument around it. Acknowledge opposing views, perhaps stating, “While some argue for its deterrent effect, I believe the ethical concerns outweigh any potential benefits.”

5. Be careful with language

Precision and clarity in your language are paramount. Reflecting the courtroom setting, where arguments must be concise and clear, the LNAT essay requires a similar style. Avoid unnecessary complexity, unfamiliar jargon, and slang. Your reader will appreciate a clear and persuasive argument over convoluted language. Align your writing style with the precision expected in legal discourse. Consider finessing your writing style by getting professional guidance . 

Practice Prompt : Opt for clarity over complexity. Instead of using convoluted language in a prompt about environmental regulations, articulate your points clearly: “ Stringent environmental regulations are crucial for safeguarding our planet’s future .”

6. Proofread, Proofread and Proofread

In the rush to complete your essay, the importance of proofreading should not be underestimated. Devote a few minutes to review your work like a tutor would do , correcting any repetition or spelling errors. While spelling is not a direct evaluation criterion, a polished essay instills confidence in your argument. Utilise these final minutes to refine your essay, ensuring it reflects your best effort.

Practice Prompt : After completing an essay on the role of technology in shaping legal systems, take a few minutes to proofread. Identify and rectify any repetition, ensuring your arguments flow seamlessly. This final step enhances the overall polish of your essay.

How to write a good lnat essay requires a strategic approach , incorporating effective planning, persuasive writing, and meticulous proofreading. By practicing regularly, embracing unfamiliar topics, and honing your argumentative skills, you can confidently tackle Section B of the LNAT. Remember, the clarity of your argument and your ability to articulate a compelling perspective are the keys to success. Best of luck!

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Best Essay Writing Strategies For LNAT Section B

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LNAT Essay Questions

What is the lnat essay, how do the universities assess the essay, tips to prepare for the lnat essay task, example lnat essay questions.

In Section B, you are asked to write one essay in 40 minutes from a list of three proposed subjects. This is designed to test your ability to construct a compelling argument and articulate it in a clear and persuasive manner. The subject matter typically covers topical issues in society, politics, philosophy, or ethical debates.

The essay should demonstrate a strong understanding of the subject matter and a critical approach to the issue. This includes the ability to weigh different viewpoints, provide relevant examples or evidence, and derive a reasoned conclusion. Clarity of expression, good grammar, and correct spelling are also important.

The specific criteria can vary among universities, but commonly, they look for the following in the essay:

• Argumentation : Can you construct a coherent, persuasive argument? This includes your ability to present your points logically, use evidence effectively, and address counter-arguments or alternative viewpoints.
• Understanding of the Topic : Do you demonstrate a clear understanding of the issue at hand? This can be shown through your discussion of the subject matter and the points you choose to raise.
• Critical Thinking : Are you able to think critically and analytically about the issue? This includes your ability to scrutinize different viewpoints and question assumptions.
• Clarity of Expression : How well do you express your ideas? This includes your grammar, spelling, punctuation, and general use of English.
• Organization : Is your essay well-organized? A clear introduction, logical progression of ideas, and a strong conclusion are signs of a well-structured essay.

Remember, the LNAT essay is not just about your knowledge of the topic, but rather how you apply that knowledge in formulating a balanced, reasoned argument.

It's important to note that universities will use the LNAT score in conjunction with other factors (such as academic performance, personal statement, references, and interview performance, if applicable) to make a decision about your application.

Understand the Test

Brush up your writing skills, practice critical thinking, keep up with current affairs, plan your essay, practice under test conditions, revise and review, understand different perspectives, don’t sit on the fence, proofread your work.

Remember, the most effective preparation is consistent and regular practice over time. Don't expect to perfect your skills overnight. Start preparing as early as possible, and work on improving steadily.

LNAT does not release the exact questions that have appeared on past tests. However, here are some hypothetical examples of the type of essay prompts you might encounter. These questions typically require you to take a stance on a controversial or moral issue, presenting an argument that justifies your position.

• "Should a democratic society tolerate speech that promotes hatred or incites violence?"
• "Is it justified for a government to restrict civil liberties in the name of national security?"
• "Is capital punishment ever morally justifiable?"
• "Should governments have the power to regulate content on social media platforms?"
• "Is it ethical to use animals in medical research?"
• "Are governments justified in imposing strict measures to combat climate change even if such measures may negatively impact economic growth?"
• "Is there a moral obligation for wealthy nations to assist poorer ones?"
• "Is it necessary for society to impose limitations on scientific research and why?"
• "Does the right to privacy outweigh the public’s right to know?"
• "Do the benefits of artificial intelligence outweigh the potential risks?"

Remember, in your response, you should develop a clear argument, consider and address counter-arguments or alternative viewpoints, provide relevant examples, and draw a reasoned conclusion.

For more help with writing high scoring LNAT essays and for more LNAT section B practice questions have a look at our LNAT course... click here .

LNAT Guides

LNAT Section B - Your Guide to the Second Section of the LNAT

Written by: Matt Amalfitano-Stroud

Section B of the LNAT is your chance to show off your essay writing skills. This could either be the easiest or the most challenging part of your application. Either way, let’s take an in-depth look at what to expect from Section B and how you can succeed. Carry on reading for LNAT facts, tips and practice questions!

BASICS OF THE LNAT

Before we get to essay writing, let’s go over the basics of the LNAT to make sure we understand what the exam is all about.

The Law National Aptitude Test  (LNAT) is a two paper exam used primarily to test a potential student’s abilities in various disciplines of reading and writing.  

You’ll be likely to encounter the test if you’re applying for a Law degree in the UK , starting from undergraduate level. While not every university will require you to sit the LNAT (such as Cambridge University), 9 UK universities and 2 international universities use the LNAT in their application process. These universities include Oxford , Cambridge ,   University College London and the London School of Economics,   which are some of the highest-rated Law universities in the UK .  

The LNAT lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes and is split between Section A and Section B, which will both ask different styles of questions to test your reading and writing skills.  

Section A consists of 42 multiple-choice questions based on a total of 12 argumentative passages . Each passage has three or four questions to answer and you will have 95 minutes to complete all of these.  

The passages you’ll find in the LNAT are based on a variety of topics . They typically aren’t focused on law-related issues but will instead cover anything from politics, science, history, technology and much, much more! But no need to fret, you won’t need to start revising for every possible question! Section A isn’t about your knowledge of a topic but instead your ability to decipher and explain meanings from non-fiction literature , including intentions behind specific words or phrasing and discussion of the writer’s viewpoint of the topic.  

In Section B, you’ll have a choice of three questions to write a single argumentative essay about. You will have 40 minutes in total to complete this essay and you have a maximum of 750 words.

Just like Section A, your essay will be answering a general question. Many questions that have previously been asked have related to ethical issues and current affairs such as “How should judges be appointed?” or “What is ‘political correctness and why does it matter?”. When choosing your question, you’ll want to make sure you have at least some level of interest and knowledge on your chosen topic, as you will need to be more informative in your answer than Section A. However, the primary focus of this Section is to test your comprehension, creativity and reasoning abilities , so don’t worry if you’re not an expert on the subject.

The LNAT is sat at any time between September 1st and January 20th (October 15th for Oxford and Cambridge applicants) and must be taken at an LNAT testing centre . You will have to register for a testing date on the LNAT website , which can be done from August 1st until September 15th for Oxford applicants and January 15th for applicants at other universities. Bear in mind that you’ll need to pay a fee of £75 for testing in the UK and £120 outside of the UK.

The LNAT scoring for Section A is very clear, giving you a mark out of 42 based on your correct answers . Section B however does not have an official or consistent marking scheme. Each university will mark your essay differently with some placing great importance on your performance in this section and others not considering it at all . We have a Definitive Guide to LNAT Scores if you would like to learn more about your results in the test.

Here’s a quick summary of the basic details we’ve learnt so far:

LNAT Exam Format

Want to learn more about the LNAT? Check out our Definitive LNAT Guide to learn more general information about what you can expect from the exam!  

Struggling with your LNAT preparation?  

With the LNAT Preparation Platform , you’ll be able to use an amazing collection of revision notes, strategy guides and expert tutorials to learn everything you’ll need to write the perfect essay!  

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE LNAT SECTION B

With the basics of the LNAT out the way, it’s time to go headfirst into Section B, or, “The Essay Section”.

The structure of Section B is very simple in theory! You’ll be given three unrelated questions and a couple of blank pages to craft a thought-provoking essay based on one of them in 40 minutes . Here’s an example of what your question page will look like:

As you can see, none of the questions are particularly lengthy and all cover very different topics . This variety should mean that you’ll have at least one question that you can confidently answer.  

Although the topics are very different, the structure of each question is fairly similar . Whether the question provides a quote or a general topic, each one will essentially be asking you to express your view on what has been presented to you. The purpose of this section is to determine your skills in argumentative writing , after all, so expressing your opinion understandably and convincingly will be the core of your essay.  

Of course, it’s no coincidence that Section B is structured this way, expressing convincing arguments is an essential skill in almost any profession within Law. Even if your chosen university doesn’t officially mark your essay, you should still put your all into this section as a way to practice and demonstrate your skills for your potential future profession.  

For some, this Section may be a breeze. Essay writing is a natural skill for some , while many others may feel overwhelmed with options when they first begin. Especially with a 40-minute time limit, many people may freeze up when either choosing a question or beginning to write their essay . Getting started is always the hardest part of writing but once you’ve overcome that roadblock, you should find yourself finishing the essay with time to re-read it ( which you will definitely need to do )!  

Exams.Ninja Tip

750 words are considered on average to take up three standard-sized pages , with 250 words per page. Remember though that 750 words is the maximum , not the minimum . While you should always aim to get as close to the word limit as possible, you will typically be given around 10% leeway (75 words) in either direction, so don’t worry if you’re a few words over or under.

As we mentioned, you’re going to want to save some time at the end to double-check your writing . Between five and ten minutes should be sufficient time to check everything, so try to wrap up your essay quickly if you’re still writing in the last minutes of the exam. The examiners aren’t expecting perfection from your essay here, as there’s only so much a person can do in 40 minutes without any additional preparation time! The time spent double-checking should be used to catch out any spelling or grammatical errors rather than trying to change your wording or arguments.  

As we’ve already discussed, marking for Section B is very loose and does not have a set standard between different universities. Unfortunately, many unis don’t provide much information on how they mark or use the essay in your application. We do know that the following universities do not consider Section B within your application:

Universities That Do Not Consider Section B of the LNAT

London School of Economics

University of  Glasgow

Kings College London

How Do Universities use Section B?

Universities that consider Section B may use it in a variety of ways. For example, they may compare it against your personal statement or r eference it in questions during your interview . When a university has two or more borderline applicants to choose between, the Section B essay will definitely come into play, which should reinforce the idea that you should put as much effort as you can into your essay.  

Oxford University is generally the most considerate of Section B , with a percentage scoring scheme used to determine an essay’s quality. A good essay will generally score 60% or above in this marking scheme, with points being awarded to displays of application, reasoning ability and good communication. You can see here the Section B results for successful applicants of Law at Oxford in the 2020-21 admissions cycle. Only 15 of the 238 applicants scored under 60% , with the most common score being 63% .  

Essay Scores for Successful Oxford Applicants (2020-21)

Remember, Section A is typically going to hold more value for your LNAT score, so be sure that you are equally prepared for it. You can check out our LNAT Section A Guide for more tips on how to get the best score that you can!

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED FOR SECTION B?

What exactly are the examiners going to be looking for from your essay? Let’s find out!

Section B isn’t a test of your general knowledge on certain topics. Your efforts in the 40 minutes need to be focussed on writing a compelling and convincing argument based on the question you are asked. Let’s take a look at the different areas of essay writing that need to be considered for this section of the exam:  

Choosing a Question

Before you do anything, you’ll of course have to choose a question . Your process for doing this will depend heavily on the questions available, which you will have no hint towards before you start the section.  

Firstly, you’ll need to ensure you have properly read every question . We recommend taking about two minutes to go through every question properly, as you need to be certain that you know what the question is asking . This can be difficult with the number of different variations of question types you can get. For example, what is each of these questions asking?

1. Do you agree that there is art for the masses and elite culture? How do you feel about being “the mass”?

2. Birth controls shouldn’t be prescribed to teenagers without parental consent. What is your opinion?

3. Web   2.0   has brought about a different method of communicating over the Web through “online social networking” and this signals a shift in how people relate to the divide between private and public space. Discuss.

Question 1 has first asked you a simple yes or no question , whether you agree with the statement. While obviously, you will need to be i n-depth and argumentative in your answer, the style of question does limit your response to a certain degree as you will need to remain within the parameters of whether you agree with what they have told you.  

Question 2 meanwhile simply asks for an opinion on the topic , a much more open-ended method of asking your viewpoint. You will have more of a chance to explore different factors of the topic as you are not restricted to a yes or no question .  

Finally, Question 3 is the most open-ended of the three in terms of the structure, with only the instruction to discuss the statement provided . Your essay could go in several directions here, with any option falling under the instructions provided by the question , as long as it’s relevant to the topic of course!  

It’s natural to assume that the best question to pick would be the easiest , but this definitely isn’t always true . The amount of knowledge you have on a subject will matter when choosing a question, there’s no point in trying to answer something you have absolutely no knowledge of , but you’ll equally want to consider which topic you have the most interest in .

Which would make the better choice for an essay; a topic that you know lots of facts about but don’t have any strong feelings towards, or a topic that you don’t know quite as much about but have a strong opinion or interesting argument relating to it.  

Examiners are looking for the ability to make a strong case , not just the ability to state information, so the best option will always be the question that you feel you could write an interesting argument for .  

Planning your essay

Creating a plan may feel like a waste of your time given how little time you have , but it’s important to go into your writing with a clear idea so you don’t begin to ramble or go off-topic.  

Your plan should only take around 5 minutes and does not have to be extremely in-depth. The main purpose of your plan should be to pin down what your argument is and what points you are going to use to express it , as well as having a rough structure to keep the essay focused and organised.  

When creating your plan, the first step is always going to be to generate ideas , you won’t get far without them! You may have already developed some while reading the questions and making your decision, so be sure to write them all down . At this stage, no idea is a bad idea , so think of anything that may be relevant and put it in your collection of ideas.  

Once you think you have enough (or more than enough) talking points, it’s time to build the structure of the essay . Everything will need to be built around an effective introduction and conclusion , which will be the two tentpoles of your argument. However, all the points you are going to make in between need to be carefully placed to maintain a good flow throughout the essay. Paragraphs should connect with each other and points shouldn’t feel like a checklist. The discussion should feel natural, without any sudden shifts in topic or tone .  

Once you’re happy with your plan, it’ll be time to start writing . One major benefit to having a plan is that you will find yourself writing much faster when working from a plan. You won’t need to be worrying about structure or points you should make as all of that will have already been decided . You’ll be free to focus on the strength of your writing!  

Writing the Essay

The two most important sections will always be the introduction and conclusion . You’ll need to properly explain the argument you’re making to give the rest of the essay meaning and you will need to provide some form of definitive answer to the question once you’ve expressed all the points you had.

Everything in between the beginning and end needs to be relevant and well-thought-out or else your argument will fall flat! You’re going to need to use your deductive reasoning skills to ensure all your points need to be relevant and explained clearly so the reader can understand why you’re writing about it and what it means to the question you’re answering.  

Of course, the most basic thing that you will need to be careful about is your spelling and grammar . During the initial writing stage, it can be easy to overlook this , especially when under a strict time limit. The best way to prevent any problems here is to save time in the exam to go over your work . Speaking of which…

Double-checking your Work

You may feel confident that your work is perfect, but there is almost certainly going to be at least one error or aspect that can be corrected or improved . Giving yourself five or ten minutes before the end of the exam could be an absolute life-saver and save you from an embarrassing mistake .

Spelling, grammar and wording are all key things to look out for. This time shouldn’t be about changing up your argument or adding extra points, but ensuring the f undamentals of your essay are flawless . An examiner is much more likely to forgive a slightly clunky argument in your essay than a collection of blatant spelling errors.  

However, don’t rush the second half of your essay or skip over key points for the sake of having time at the end. It’s ok to cut things out that don’t necessarily fit the best, you do only have 750 words after all, but don’t do this at the cost of your essay’s overall quality . Correcting a couple of errors isn’t going to save your mark if the essay that you’ve written feels incomplete .

Exams.Ninja Tip 

What do LNAT examiners look for? The three major things to consider are as follows: 

• You need to offer a uniques perspective on the topic. Examiners don’t want to read 100 essays covering the same basic point, so provide an interesting angle to keep their interest. 
• You need to keep things as definitive and objective as possible. You’re going to have opinions on the topic, but you will need to avoid expressing them outright and focus on facts and evidence to explain your overall point. 
• Examiners take the word count very seriously. Aim for less than the 750-word limit, try to hit around 600 instead.  

HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR SECTION B?

You’ll need to make sure you practise everything we’ve discussed so far, but what’s the best way of doing so? Here are a few tips that will help you out!

1. Develop a Preparation Plan

The LNAT is slightly different to some other exams, as your time revising won’t be spent remembering facts but instead practising your reasoning and critical thinking . It can be difficult to know where to start with this, so you should create a plan for how to tackle it, much like how you do with an essay.

You should devote time to the areas that you feel you need the most work . Ideally, you’ll have time to thoroughly cover everything but in reality, you’ll want to prioritise the areas that you aren’t as comfortable with .

Bear in mind that the LNAT is only one part of your application process. Your time should be split between other areas of application as well, including your interview and personal statement , as well as revising for your A-Levels or equivalent!

Not sure on the best way to tackle a plan? Check out our 6-Month Preparation Timeline for some inspiration!

2. Read and Write as much as you can

As you should know by now, reading and writing are the two most important skills that you will need to revise. These are both very general topics that have lots of areas to practice in, but in general, these are the two things you will need to know how to do well as you will be relying on these skills for both Sections of the exam.  

The most effective way to revise reading and writing is to just do it! There are countless ways to practice so try to find something that feels beneficial to you , while also being enjoyable. For your writing skills, you’ll want to take any opportunities to write about topics that interest you . Writing on a topic that requires little research is a great way of being able to focus on important parts, your cognitive and argumentative abilities .  

For something a bit more challenging, you may want to ask a friend or family member to give you a question that you can answer with a short essay. Let them catch you off guard with something you didn’t know they would ask, and then present them with your essay to see if they understand the argument you were trying to make or were at all convinced by your points . Of course, don’t always expect a review as in-depth as an LNAT examiner may give!

3. Answer Previous LNAT Questions

Creating your own questions or just writing about something you care about is great practice, but the best way to get a true understanding of what sitting the LNAT is like is to answer actual questions from past papers . These will be the best representative of what you can expect in the real thing because they are the real thing , just a bit older!  

To take your preparation to the next level, you answer the questions under exam conditions , complete with the time limit. This is always a great way to test your nerves and see how you perform under pressure , especially for an exam like the LNAT. You could either try Section B alone or sit the full test with both Sections in the 135-minute time limit (we recommend you do both!).  

How can you get a mark on your practice LNAT exam? With Exams.Ninja!

With the Exams.Ninja LNAT Preparation Platform you’ll be able to complete a selection of LNAT past papers under exam conditions . You’ll get an estimated mark at the end of the exam and you can go through worked solutions and practice essays to help improve your abilities.

EXAMPLE PRACTICE ESSAYS

It’s time to have a look at some examples of top-quality LNAT essays and some questions with suggested talking points so you can get an idea of what you’ll need to write to get a great score!

LNAT Example Essay 1

‘There is a time and place for censorship of the internet.’ Discuss with particular reference to the right of freedom of expression.  

In today’s day and age it is extremely easy for anyone to access explicit or dangerous content on the internet. There have been talks of censorship on the internet, but is it necessary? One would argue that the censorship of the internet is against our freedom of expression, which is why in this essay I will provide an answer in response to the statement ‘There is a time and place for censorship of the internet’.  

In our current education system there is a heavy emphasis put on the usage of the internet to aid our learning. However, once children learn how to use the internet, the whole world is just one click away. Children could be easily exposed to indecent images, which is why some say the Government should censor the internet for the safety of children. Possible solutions could be only allowing websites with adult material to be accessible at late-night, reducing the chances of indecent exposure to children. Accordingly, in this instance, censorship is justified.

Similarly, one could easily research the internet to find information about illegal activities such as drug or bomb making. This means that the internet could be used as a tool to threaten national security, hence why the internet should have tough censorship in order to prevent criminals from accessing dangerous material, for the benefit of everyone’s safety.

On the other hand, blocking certain websites strictly goes against our right of freedom of expression and instead of blocking certain dangerous websites, the Government should have a more efficient surveillance strategy in order to track people who are accessing such dangerous websites. This would ensure that our right of freedom of expression is not breached and at the same time, criminal activity would be prevented.  

Furthermore, with regards to the access of sexually explicit websites, more work should be some in order to educate children not to access such websites. Good parent is a better alternative to preventing children accessing such websites, rather than blocking sites which goes against our right of freedom of expression.  

In conclusion, there is no time and place for censorship as it goes against our right to freedom of expression. Other alternatives such as internet surveillance would be more effective as it ensures the safety of the general public and at the same time our freedom of expression is not breached.

Examiner’s comments:

Introduction: This is a very good introduction. It highlights the conflict between censorship and freedom of expression, which is a good place to point it out. In the final sentence, though, the student wastes time in saying ‘which is why in this essay I will come with an answer in response to the statement….’ – this is obvious and there is little point in saying it. It just wastes time and prevents one using the time for writing something more useful. Other than this, the introduction is very good and concise.

Main body: The student considers two main instances of censorship in the main body (indecent images and dangerous websites) and suggests that censorship could be used, but suggests alternatives would be more effective. This is quite a persuasive essay because the student has considered alternative points of view, which makes the essay balanced.  

Conclusion: The conclusion is very clear and brings the arguments advanced in the essay to a final judgement. The candidate directly addresses the question and refers to the whole part of the question by considering freedom of expression (unlike in Example Essay 2). On the whole, this is a very impressive essay.

Style: This candidate makes two typographical errors. First, ‘more work should be some’ should read ‘more work should be done’. Second, ‘Good parenting’ should be referenced, not ‘Good parent’. Proof read!

LNAT Example Essay 2

‘Developed countries have a greater obligation to tackle climate change than developing countries.’ Discuss the extent to which you agree with this statement.

Climate change is a global issue that affects all nations and its peoples, and in light of the newly released global sustainability goals, perhaps we should focus on what actions should be taken to effect a change rather arguing who should take responsibility. Hence, I disagree with this statement and will be presenting my argument in this essay.

Firstly, climate change is a global issue and all nations are obligated to combat it. We must abandon the attitude that developing nations are somehow inferior to developed nations simply because of their global position. With this approach in mind, all nations therefore must be taken as accountable for this global crisis that affects us all. Perhaps the view that combatting climate change is an ‘obligation’ should be abandoned. Improving the condition of our world and fixing our mistakes should be regarded not as a chore, but as a responsibility to future generations. After we have confronted these issues and changed our perceptions, will a global effort truly be effectively carried forward?

Secondly, while it is true that developed nations have a greater capacity financially and structurally to enact a change, efforts to improve the infrastructure of a country to make it more green can be done by developing countries. Rather than seeing sustainability as an expensive undertaking, requiring new carbon capturing machines, knowledge of other ways to lesson our carbon footprint should be made clear. These simple methods such as planting more trees than the number being cut down or effective garbage disposable and recycling to minimise burning of garbage. Such inexpensive methods could easily be undertaken by developing countries, eliminating the idea that climate change is a concern of the rich.

Thirdly, to separate countries into two spheres is damaging. This segregation lead to the belief that ‘developing nations’ are somehow able to ‘get away’ with releasing high amount of greenhouse gases or deforestation by simply claiming that they do not have the capacity to make such a change. It is not enough for the developed countries to take the initiative; developing nations are equally obligated to combat climate change.  

In conclusion, no country should be viewed as having a greater obligation towards alleviating climate change.

Introduction: The introduction is excellent. The candidate states her main view concisely and proceeds to continue with the main body. The candidate also adopts a unique take on the question, which is positive.

Main body: The second paragraph raises interesting points but it is not clear how it relates to the question. A running theme throughout the essay is that every country shares a responsibility to be sustainable and reduce climate change. However, counter-arguments are not readily considered, accordingly the essay is not as persuasive as it might be. You must consider the other side of the argument.

The other side of the argument could have been discussed out the very good point made about developing countries still being able to plant trees. For example:

Climate change affects every country and, thus, every country should be obliged to tackle climate change.

Despite this, some argue that richer countries have far more resources than developing countries to spend on developing non-renewable energy sources (e.g. solar panels).

Nonetheless, poorer countries can still do their part by planting trees and taking other inexpensive methods and should not consider themselves ‘off the hook’. Climate change affects everyone and, therefore, everyone should contribute.

One could also note that the money concern is a practical issue that can be addressed. An example of a policy to deal this could be that each country pays a certain percentage of its GDP to tackle climate change.

Conclusion: The candidate succinctly presents her final response to the question in the conclusion. This could have been elaborated on a little more but is still fine nonetheless.  

LNAT Practice Question 1

The general trend towards the liberalisation of marriage undermines its religious basis.’ Discuss this comment with reference to the idea of abolishing marriage as a legal concept.

• Marriage from a religious perspective is between a man and a woman and the liberalisation of this the rise of divorce and the legalisation of same sex marriage does undermine its religious basis.
• This is not, however, necessarily a bad thing – one idea would be to abolish marriage as a legal concept – making a joint union for the purposes of taxation that would be between whoever wants to create that union. Marriage then would be left as a separate union in the eyes of god alone and not in the eyes of the law. Whatever happens, the legal union will be separated from the religious one.
• Religion and the law should be separated, especially given our aim to be a multi-cultural and multi-religious society.  
• It is to be unfairly preferential to one group of people to integrate one religion with the law above all others.

For – Challenges

• Why do we support relationships in the first place – partially mutual support that a long term commitment gives to someone, but also procreation, which is lost by extending it beyond heterosexual couples.
• This may be the case if we were creating the law now, but Christianity is inherently connected to the English legal system by virtue of its history and fused past.
• Religious basis is changing – lots of Christians believe that the concept of marriage should be extended to fit in one with modern perceptions

Against – Challenges

• But this is only as a response to the law changing what the understanding of marriage is.  
• Marriage is traditionally a religious concept and its being integrated with the law means that the religious community has lost control of what marriage is.

LNAT Practice Question 2

Should tuition fees be reduced?

• Tuition fees should be reduced as high tuition fees are hindering low-income students from considering higher education, resulting in a lack of social mobility and a denial of the right to education based on income-levels.  
• Tuition fees have become increasingly unaffordable in recent years, and this has become a huge deterrent for students who are not from well-to-do families from pursuing higher education, even though they may be academically-capable of doing so.  
• Tuition fees should be reduced as universities already have the benefit of huge donations and grants being given by alumni and research organisations in order for them to survive and provide quality education, it is unfair to charge students exorbitant tuition fees and create a high barrier to entry based on financial means.  
• The argument that tuition fees are needed to sustain a university is weak in this day and age when the bulk of a university’s revenue comes from research grants and legacy donations.

For – Challenges  

• Tuition fees should not be reduced as tuition fees are needed for universities to remain competitive and hire the best professors and have the best resources for students in order to ensure quality teaching.  
• If tuition fees were reduced, even if more students will be enticed to enrol in university as a result, it will mean that all students will end up receiving sub-standard education with the lack of resources and   financial-backing needed.  
• Tuition fees should not be reduced as not all universities have the benefit of large grants and legacy donations.  
• Only the top-ranked universities and the most prestigious universities will be able to attract sufficient funding and donations from successful alumni and be able to survive even without charging high rates of universities.  
• Many other universities will struggle to survive without charging sufficiently high tuition fees, and reducing tuition fees might be counter-intuitive and result in less university places being available.
• Tuition fees should not be reduced as there is already the student loan scheme in place which ensures that students only need to start re-paying their loan upon graduation if they earn a certain amount of income.  
• This helps to ensure that low-income students will still have easy access to universities, and they will only need to pay off the loans if they manage to secure a job that pays enough for them to repay the loan.  
• Tuition fees should not be reduced as too many students are going to university for the sake of it and do not take their degree seriously.  
• It is well-known that many students in less rigorous courses and universities only treat university as an extra 3-4 years of socialising and partying.  
• Taxpayers should not have to subsidise these students when they are not doing something of value and tuition fees should remain as it is in order to act as a deterrent for students who are not naturally inclined for university education in the first place.
• Tuition fees should be reduced as the high level of tuition fees being charged causes many students to be heavily-indebted upon graduation, causing an immense financial burden to them and provides a disincentive for many students to consider university in the first place, even if they qualified for university academically.  
• Tuition fees should be reduced as university not only provides academic teaching, it also provides important soft-skills and allows students to figure out what they are good at and what they want to do in life.  
• Studies have shown that university education is highly beneficial in terms of a person’s success later on in life as well as their earning capacity.  
• Hence, we should not deny this opportunity to many students who might otherwise be put off by the high tuition fees.

Want even more practice questions? With the Exams.Ninja Preparation Platform , you’ll have access to 50 unique Section B questions to answer, each with a fully worked solution to tweak your method and write the best essay possible!  

So now you’ve read our guide to Section B, it’s time to start writing an LNAT masterpiece! Section B may be the easiest or most difficult part of your whole application, but with the knowledge you now have of how it works, you shouldn’t have any problems writing an essay that will impress any examiner who reads it!

LNAT Deductive Reasoning: Deducing Arguments in the LNAT

Lnat preparation: your 6-month lnat preparation timeline, lnat section a: your guide to assumptions in questions, lnat section b: your guide to the second section of the lnat, lnat section a: your guide to the first section of the lnat, lnat results 2023 – the definitive guide to your lnat score.

Do you need extra support with your LNAT preparation? Exams.Ninja provides you with all the help you’ll need!

The Exams.Ninja LNAT Preparation Platform is an easy and fun way to combine all of your LNAT prep together in one place. You’ll get unlimited access to:  

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LNAT Section B: Ten top tips to smash section B of the LNAT!

Section B of the LNAT can be tricky, students often worry that the examiners are trying to test their knowledge. Don’t worry, LNAT Section B is not about knowledge, it’s about showing the examiners that you can think through issues, argue in a clear way, and write persuasive and impressive answers. We are going to be talking about planning, structure and clarity in your answers, with easy essay hacks that jump your grade up in no time at all.

So, are you ready to improve your essay grade quickly and easily ? Here are my ten top tips for hitting top marks in section B …

1. Planning is essential 

The best essays come out of great plans . Planning helps to make your answer clearer, better structured and more coherent. 

Here’s my top tips for creating a great plan …

Step 1 – Create a little mind map about the question, scribbling down any ideas that first come to mind.

Step 2 – Decide whether you are going to argue for or against, and what evidence you are going to use.

Step 3 – Split up your arguments into themes (e.g. reason 1, reason 2, counter argument, counter counter argument).

Step 4 – Assign each theme a paragraph.

Step 5 – Stick to your plan! It can be tempting to add in new ideas as they pop into your head, but avoid this unless you have the time to rework it into your plan.

2. Structure – how to organise your writing

Essays read much better when they follow a clear structure . This can also help you streamline your ideas and make your argument more impressive.

Here is a handy essay structure you can use in your next essay:

Introduction – Briefly outline what you are going to say in your essay and your position on the topic in the question.

Argument 1 – Begin this paragraph with a one line topic sentence summarising your argument, then go on to develop and consider your point.

Argument 2 – This paragraph should look similar to ‘Argument 1’ but make sure that you are making a new argument here, and not just repeating yourself.

Counter argument and counter- counter argument – In this paragraph, you summarize the counter argument (what things might somebody who disagreed with your argument say). After outlining the counter argument, you need to think of a counter counter, this is where you dismiss the counter argument and reassert your position. It’s very important to do this – don’t sit on the fence!

Conclusion – Here, you summarize your overall position and the key arguments. You might also want to make a snazzy final comment – for example, what is the significance of your conclusion, how might your conclusion change things in the future.

3. Clarity – how to declutter your writing!

LNAT Section B essays that are clear do much better in the exam. Students often think they need to impress examiners with big words and complex language, but the examiners are not testing your vocabulary, so stick to simple language that makes your point stand out. A quick tip to improve clarity – read through your sentence, then close your eyes and say your argument in your head as if you were telling it to a friend. The sentence you say in your head will probably be clearer, so use it as a template to tweak your answer. 

Here’s an example …

“One might wonder if technological advancements in educational learning based environments are outweighed by the increased cost of transferring education online, but, I consider that the monetary cost is worthwhile for the following reasons …”

“Some argue that the benefit of using technology in education is not worth the cost of the technology. However, I believe the cost is outweighed by …”

4. Timing – split up your time for maximum efficiency

You have 40 minutes for this section. You will probably feel less time pressured than in Section A, but it can be easy to get caught up and not use your time efficiently .

Here is how I would divide up my time for maximum marks …

5 minutes: Planning

30 minutes: Writing

5 minutes: Reading and Checking

5. Practice, Practice, Practice!

The more you practice, the better you will get. Practice writing out essays with no time limits first, and then start introducing a time limit. Each time you write an essay, take another look at this checklist and think about how well you did each one. You might also find it helpful to redo an essay so you can see where you went wrong and where improvements could be made.

The LNAT website is great for practice tests. You can use the website to practice for LNAT Section B, the questions will be laid out in the same format as the test will be on the day.

Click Here for LNAT practice tests

6. A snappy intro and a clear conclusion

Your introduction needs to be snappy and clear. It should be obvious what your position on the topic is and what arguments you are going to make to support it. Your conclusion should summarize your arguments and reassert your overall position. One tip for a great intro and conclusion that some students find helpful is The Backwards Method.

The Backwards Method …

• Start by writing the main body of your essay (the argument and counter argument paragraphs).
• Write the conclusion – this reasserts your main point and summarizes why you dismissed the counter argument.
• Now write your introduction – you should be able to summarize your arguments much more easily by looking at your essay, especially re-read your topic sentences as reminders of your point.

7. Which question to pick

The LNAT Section B Questions usually cover a variety of themes (for example Law, Philosophy, Media, Education), and you will probably have a preference. But remember, the essay section in LNAT Section B is not a knowledge test ; sometimes picking something you know lots about can make your essay a bit messy. You don’t also have to accurately represent your true thoughts and opinions. So, try out lots of different topics when you’re practicing, and make sure to do a practice essay on the topic you would least like to write about. That way, if you have to write on a tricky topic in the exam, you will have at least had a go at writing a harder essay in your practice.

8. Label each paragraph and cut everything that is irrelevant

Give your paragraph a label – this should tell you everything that is going in the paragraph. Then, cut anything that is in the wrong place or doesn’t fit. Let’s do an example together …

LABEL – 

The law should be clear because it helps people guide their behaviour 

PARAGRAPH –

Clarity in the law is important because one of the functions of the law is to guide behaviour. If the law is overly complex, or if it is inaccessible, people will not be able to ascertain what the law requires from them in a certain situation. Further, people might get annoyed or frustrated at the lack of clarity in the law and this may reduce public confidence and discentivise people from behaving well. One way in which the law might be unclear is if it requires two different and conflicting things from people such that you break one law if you act one way, and another law if you act in the opposite way.

CUT –

This line ‘Further, people might get annoyed or frustrated at the lack of clarity in the law and this may reduce public confidence and discentivise people from behaving well’ does not fit with the label. It is not an argument about the law being clear so that it helps guide behaviour, but a completely different reason for clarity in the law. We might like the argument, but it does not go in this paragraph and we need to put it somewhere else.

9. Checking over

Always leave 5 minutes to check over your work . You should look out for misspelt words and grammar problems. You should also look for clarity and points of confusion. Once you have spotted the problem areas, fix them using the tips and techniques above.

You can also create a checking checklist, where you create a mental or note down things you know you commonly need to check over. This can be helpful in the exam, as it can help you to remember what problems you want to avoid. Do this when you are doing your plan to help.

10. Confidence

Confidence is key ! No matter how tricky the topic or how little you think you know about the area, you are being tested on your clarity and argument skills. So, be confident in your ability, get writing, stay clear and you will do really well in LNAT Section B!

FAQs for LNAT Section B

Is lnat section b hard.

The LNAT can seem like a hard test. But, you have to remember that tests are not always about getting everything correct; instead, you need to focus on doing well compared to other candidates. Every extra hour you spend practicing and reading up on the exam is going to put you ahead of others.

Do you have to take the LNAT to study law?

Not all universities require the LNAT, you should check the admissions requirements for the universities you are applying to.

What does LNAT stand for?

Law National Admissions Test.

How do you structure an LNAT Section B Essay?

Scroll up to tip 2 for a helpful LNAT Section B essay structure template.

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How to prepare

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The LNAT is designed to test your intellectual abilities rather than your knowledge about a particular subject. However, students are strongly advised to practise and prepare for the test.

There are no facts to learn in preparation for the test. However we strongly recommend you make use of our preparation materials which will help you concentrate on exercising the relevant parts of your brain, and on familiarising yourself with the test format.

The LNAT is a 2¼ hour test in two sections.

• Section A consists of 42 multiple choice questions. The questions are based on 12 argumentative passages, with 3 or 4 multiple choice questions on each. You are given 95 minutes to answer all of the questions.
• For Section B, you have 40 minutes to answer  one  of three essay questions on a range of subjects..

We do not recommend that candidates pay for coaching and we advise you to be sceptical about anyone’s claims to be able to help you do well in the test by coaching.

The LNAT Consortium has no connection with and does not endorse or recommend any preparatory materials provided by any other individual or organisation, whether commercially or free of charge. Any attempt to suggest that the LNAT Consortium makes any such endorsement should be  reported to us  so that action may be taken against the perpetrator.

Be aware that coaching organisations’ screen views of any preparatory test may not resemble the real LNAT screens.

Reading and Thinking

Candidates can prepare for the LNAT by exercising the relevant parts of their brain. This can be done by reading a quality newspaper (in English) every day. As you read

• Think about the issues being raised;
• What assumptions are being made?
• What information is being relied on to draw which conclusion?
• How would you frame a counterargument?

Reading a quality daily newspaper will help you to be aware of the world around you. The LNAT essay topics will not be specifically about current affairs, and you will not be judged by what facts you know. But knowing how the world ticks, in general terms, will help you to write intelligently about a host of different topics.

We have listed some newspapers below worth considering. You can read the online versions (usually freely available, although registration may be required). If you do read the online versions, remember to read the comment pieces as well as the news. (One question you might ask yourself: What exactly is the difference between news and comment? Is the contrast really apparent in practice?)

• The Economist
• The Financial Times
• The Guardian
• The Independent
• The Irish Times
• The New York Times
• The Scotsman
• The Sydney Morning Herald
• The Daily Telegraph
• The Washington Post

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Mar 05, 2024

Written By Billy Sexton

Sample LNAT questions

So you’re flying the nest and leaving home to study law at university. It’s the first step on a long road to becoming a lawyer but even after you’ve sent off that lovely law personal statement and selected your five university choices, but now you have to sit the LNAT.

Of course, by now you know what the LNAT is and you’ve been preparing well, but what about practising for the LNAT and having some sample questions to check out? Don’t fear, LNAT student, AllAboutLaw is here to provide. (Don’t mention it…).

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LNAT multiple choice questions

The first part of the LNAT test is made up of 42 multiple-choice questions lasting 95 minutes. There are three or four questions for 12 argumentative passages that test your reasoning skills.

There’s no way to revise as such, as you don’t know what the passage will contain, but there are example questions you can try your hand at. Such as this one (which we borrowed from the lovely folks at The Guardian ):

Example LNAT questions

Consider the following argument:

There are numerous mentally ill offenders in our prisons. This is shameful. The only point of punishment is deterrence. But to be deterred one needs to be a rational person, and a rational person is a person who understands the likely consequences of his or her actions. Mentally ill offenders are, by definition, less than fully rational. So they cannot be deterred, and should not be in prison.

1. Which of the following is an unarticulated assumption of the argument?

(a) There are numerous mentally ill offenders in our prisons

(b) Imprisoning the mentally ill is shameful

(c) Imprisonment is a form of punishment

(d) Rational people understand the likely consequences of their actions

(e) Those who cannot be deterred should not be in prison.

2. Which of the following is a flaw in the argument?

(a) It does not tell us anything about the definition of mental illness that it is using

(b) It starts from the assumption that we should be ashamed of our prisons

(c) It suggests that we have to embark on a very troublesome review of the way that imprisonment is used as a punishment

(d) It does not allow for the possibility that some people who were not mentally ill when they offended might become mentally ill in prison

(e) It relies on statistics.

3. Which of the following can we most reliably infer that the author of the argument believes?

(a) People should not be sent to prison except as a last resort

(b) Mentally ill people should be treated in hospital for their illnesses

(c) Offenders who are not mentally ill should always be punished by imprisonment

(d) All offences have consequences

(e) The point of punishment is not rehabilitation.

LNAT stress that there is only one correct answer to these questions and they don’t include trick questions. You just have to think critically!

LNAT essay questions

The second part of the LNAT lasts for 40 minutes and is an essay based question. To prepare for this, check out our tips . One sample question, which is actually provided by LNAT themselves, is as follows: ‘In Western society, arranged marriages should no longer be tolerated.’

There are a range of arguments you could follow for this, one being the idea that in Western society, the majority of people are liberal and free to choose what they do with their own lives.

The counter-argument would be that western society prides itself on being tolerant of other cultures and traditions, therefore to intervene in such matters would be going against western principles.

More sample question advice and practice tests can be found on LNAT’s website .

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Sample LNAT Essay: Why is Theft Wrong?

Posted by Catherine Robinson on October 14, 2023

Hello! My name is Catherine Robinson, and I offer one-to-one LNAT tuition that covers both sections of the exam. More information on my tuition can be found by clicking here .

Scroll to the bottom of the page to find the sample LNAT essay on why theft is wrong.

What is the LNAT essay?

The LNAT essay is a 40-minute written task that assesses your ability to construct a persuasive argument. It is an opportunity for you to showcase your critical thinking, analytical skills, and ability to communicate effectively.

Understand the question

Before you start writing, take the time to carefully read and understand the essay question. Identify the key terms and concepts, and make sure you have a clear understanding of what is being asked. This will help you structure your essay and ensure that you address the question directly.

Plan your essay

Planning is crucial when it comes to writing a successful LNAT essay. Take a few minutes to brainstorm ideas, create an outline, and organise your thoughts. This will help you stay focused and ensure that your essay has a logical flow.

Structure your essay

A well-structured essay is easier to read and understand. Start with an introduction that provides an overview of your argument and sets the tone for the rest of the essay. Then, develop your argument in the body paragraphs, using evidence and examples to support your points. Finally, conclude your essay by summarising your main points and restating your thesis.

Use evidence and examples

When writing your LNAT essay, it is important to support your arguments with evidence and examples. This will make your essay more persuasive and convincing. Use relevant facts, statistics, and real-life examples to back up your claims and strengthen your argument. 

Be concise and clear

In a time-limited task like the LNAT essay, it is important to be concise and clear in your writing. Avoid unnecessary repetition and wordiness. Use clear and straightforward language to convey your ideas effectively. It is much better to write in plain and simple language than convoluted flowery language.

Practice, practice, practice

Like any skill, essay writing requires practice. Take the time to practice writing LNAT essays under timed conditions. This will help you improve your time management skills and help familiarise yourself with the format and requirements of the test.

Seek feedback

After writing practice essays, seek feedback from teachers, tutors, or peers. They can provide valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.

Example essay: Why is theft wrong?

Why is theft morally wrong? This question has puzzled philosophers and ethicists for centuries. Some argue that theft can be justified under certain circumstances, while others vehemently oppose this view. One school of thought argues that theft is morally acceptable in cases of extreme necessity, where survival is at stake. However, this view is misguided because it fails to consider the broader implications of theft, the importance of property rights, and the potential harm it causes. Therefore, it will instead be argued that theft is inherently morally wrong.

Theft, fundamentally, is an infringement on the property rights of individuals. Property rights are the cornerstone of a just society, allowing individuals to enjoy the fruits of their labour, feel secure in their belongings, and facilitate economic exchange. Theft directly violates these rights, undermining the trust and security upon which societies are built. It disrupts the social contract by disregarding the basic principle that each person's property should be respected. One argument in favour of theft posits that it can be morally justifiable in cases of extreme necessity, where one steals to survive. However, this argument can be refuted. While it is empathetic to acknowledge the desperation of those who steal to feed their families, it is essential to consider the bigger picture. Allowing theft under these circumstances risks undermining the very property rights that ensure social order. Instead of promoting a culture of respect for individual rights, it sets a dangerous precedent that can lead to a breakdown of societal norms.

Theft is not just a breach of property rights; it also erodes the trust and social harmony upon which communities thrive. It creates an atmosphere of fear, suspicion, and insecurity. When individuals cannot trust that their property will be safeguarded, they are less likely to invest in their communities or engage in commerce. This erosion of trust can lead to a decline in economic and social well-being. Some argue that theft is a means of addressing economic inequality, taking from the rich to provide for the poor. However, this argument is problematic. While economic inequality is a serious concern, theft is not a sustainable solution. Addressing inequality should be achieved through legal and ethical means, such as social welfare programs and progressive taxation. Theft only exacerbates the problem by promoting a culture of violence and insecurity.

Lastly, theft has moral implications that extend beyond the act itself. It not only harms the victim but also has detrimental effects on the thief. Engaging in theft can lead to a degradation of one's own moral character, fostering a cycle of unethical behaviour. Some contend that theft is a form of protest against perceived injustices, acting as a mechanism for the marginalised to challenge the status quo. However, the moral implications of theft must be considered. While it is crucial to address injustices, resorting to theft perpetuates a culture of lawlessness and chaos. Constructive change can be achieved through legal avenues, peaceful protests, and advocacy, rather than resorting to criminal acts.

In conclusion, theft is wrong because it infringes on property rights, erodes trust and social harmony, and carries moral implications for both the victim and the perpetrator. While there may be arguments in favour of theft under extreme circumstances or as a response to perceived injustices, these views fail to consider the broader ethical implications and the importance of preserving a just and orderly society. Theft, in most cases, is a breach of our shared social contract, and its moral wrongness is undeniable.

Want help writing LNAT essays that will impress the admissions tutor? I will guide you through a step-by-step method to writing high quality LNAT essays. Find out more information here .

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Essay Questions

Lnat questions – essay advice.

This page has free essay questions and advice for LNAT essays.

LNAT essays should be 500 words minimum to 700 words maximum.

This equals 2 to two and a half pages on the computer screen.

You will get 40 minutes to write your LNAT essay.

Essay Questions for the LNAT – Scoring

Your LNAT essay response will not be marked as such.

So, you won’t receive a score for your essay.

Different universities use the LNAT essay for different admissions purposes.

Essay Questions for the LNAT – Free Samples

LNAT essay questions will be in the form of either a question or a statement.

Here are some LNAT essay questions for you to practise:

Should public transport be compulsory in certain areas?

Being fair to the community is more important than being just to the individual. Discuss.

Make the best argument you can for full government funding of undergraduate education.

“Everyone would benefit from doing a stint of manual labour.” Do you agree?

Animal rights should be sacrificed when human life might be at stake. Discuss.

Should the government do more to encourage people into the teaching profession?

LNAT Practice Tests and Essay Writing Guide