Essay Writing (Sec. B)
Topic overview
Section B requires candidates to choose 1 of 3 topics and write an argumentative essay within 40 minutes. No legal knowledge is tested: the focus is **clear argument, rigorous structure and a supported position**. Marking values a clear thesis, logical development, engagement with opposing views and appropriate English.
Key concepts
Classic four-part structure:
- Introduction + thesis: state your position directly, don't go round in circles.
- Body paragraphs (2–3 paragraphs): one argument per paragraph, reason + evidence.
- Counter-argument and response: proactively raise the strongest objection and respond to it—this is the key to a high score, showing maturity of thought.
- Conclusion: restate your position, draw things together and elevate, introduce no new arguments.
Key points
- ◆State your position at the outset and avoid ambiguity
- ◆One central argument per paragraph
- ◆Actively refuting the opposing side = demonstrating critical thinking
- Support with concrete reasons, not slogans.
- Examples may come from history, current affairs, law or ethical common sense (no specialist legal knowledge required).
- Acknowledge complexity: a good argumentative essay distinguishes cases ('in cases where...'), rather than applying a blanket rule.
- Keep it analytical rather than narrative — constantly answer 'so what? how does this support my argument?'.
Key points
- ◆Reasons must be specific; avoid vague assertions
- ◆Distinguishing cases is more persuasive than making absolute claims
- ◆Always tie back to your core argument
40 minutes suggested: 5 minutes reading the question and making an outline, 30 minutes writing, 5 minutes checking. Aim for clarity and accuracy of language over flowery style: clear sentence structure, appropriate logical connectives ('however', 'consequently', 'nevertheless'), and avoidance of grammatical errors. Length about 500–600 words.
Key points
- ◆Make an outline before starting to write, to avoid falling apart midway
- ◆Clarity > rhetoric; logical connectives signal the direction of the argument
- ◆Leave time to check grammar and spelling
- Sitting on the fence without taking a stance: writing "some people think... while others think..." throughout yet never giving one's own position — this is what examiners dislike most. You must choose a side and argue for it.
- Listing without arguing: piling up reasons without expanding "why it holds, how it supports the thesis". Every reason must be fully explained.
- Ignoring the opposing side: not mentioning the strongest objection, so the argument appears one-sided and immature.
- Going off topic: answering not the question the prompt actually asks; when analysing the prompt, first circle the key words and qualifiers.
- Vague examples: saying only "history proves..." with no concrete example. One genuine, apt example beats ten slogans.
Key points
- ◆First state clearly which side you take, then develop the argument
- ◆Every reason must answer "so what? How does this support my argument?"
- ◆Proactively write one strongest opposing argument and respond to it
Worked examples
Try each example yourself before checking the explanation.
First look at how a 'four-part outline' is put together.
A complete sample essay of about 450 words, showing how the four-paragraph structure is put into practice.
A complete model essay of about 430 words, demonstrating how to qualify conditions and avoid absolutes.
More LNAT-style questions with timed practice.
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