How to write the LSAT writing sample?

Asked by: Mr. Jarrett Schamberger PhD  |  Last update: September 22, 2023
Score: 4.9/5 (73 votes)

LSAT Writing Sample: How to Approach It
  1. Step 1: Brainstorm and Make an Outline. ...
  2. Step 2: Begin Writing & Briefly Summarize Your Choice. ...
  3. Step 3: Make Your Choice and Give Support. ...
  4. Step 4: Acknowledge the Other Option's Pros and Cons. ...
  5. Step 5: Reiterate Why Your Choice Is the Best and Summarize Your Argument.

How do you write a sample for the LSAT?

LSAT Writing Sample: How to Approach It
  1. Step 1: Brainstorm and Make an Outline. ...
  2. Step 2: Begin Writing & Briefly Summarize Your Choice. ...
  3. Step 3: Make Your Choice and Give Support. ...
  4. Step 4: Acknowledge the Other Option's Pros and Cons. ...
  5. Step 5: Reiterate Why Your Choice Is the Best and Summarize Your Argument.

When should I write my LSAT writing sample?

LSAT Writing opens eight (8) days prior to every test administration. Candidates must have a complete writing sample in their file in order to see their score or have their score released to schools.

Do schools look at LSAT writing sample?

Although LSAT Writing samples don't receive a score, they are considered by law school admission committees when reviewing individuals' applications. Each law school uses LSAT Writing in its own way. However, most law schools view LSAT Writing samples as an integral part of their admission decisions.

How long does the LSAT writing sample take?

Under standard testing conditions, you will have 35 minutes to complete your LSAT Writing sample. If you complete your essay before the time limit, make sure to click Submit.

5 Tips to Ace the LSAT Writing Sample

44 related questions found

Do law schools look at your writing sample?

That's right—the essay section has absolutely no effect on your overall LSAT score. But, copies of your writing sample will be sent to law schools, along with your LSAT score, as part of your official report, so youll want to do the best you can with the assignment you receive.

Can you retake the LSAT writing sample?

You can retake the LSAT Writing Sample, BUT, you do not need to, most of the time. Despite how many times you take the LSAT, you only need to submit ONE writing sample. This sample is reportable for 5 years. After this time period, you'd need to write another one.

How many paragraphs should LSAT writing be?

Three supporting paragraphs is a good number to aim for. It's enough to show that your argument is well thought-out and evidence based. But it's not so much that you won't have time to write them all out in the 35 minutes you have to complete the assignment.

How do you format a writing sample for law school?

Select a sample that is sufficiently recent to demonstrate your current writing and analysis skills.
  1. Attach a cover memo that spells out context for the sample. ...
  2. Consider omitting portions of the sample to keep it in the 8 – 12 page range. ...
  3. Make sure your formatting is reader-friendly and professional.

What kind of questions are on LSAT writing?

Your LSAT Writing prompt will present a decision problem, and you will be asked to choose between two positions or courses of action and defend your choice. There are no “right” or “wrong” positions; the writing sample is designed to let you demonstrate your persuasive writing skills.

Is there a word count for the LSAT writing?

There is no specific suggested word count. Students can write as much or as little as they want, but it must be completed within the 35-minute allotted time.

What is the average LSAT score?

Data Summary. The average LSAT score for first-time takers was 151, according to scores tracked from 2006-2013. During this period, second-time test takers had the highest LSAT average score of about 152. The average national LSAT score for full-time, first-year JD enrollees for fall 2022 was about 159.

How do you write a writing sample?

How to Create a Perfect Writing Sample
  1. Step 1: Study the Job Ad to Identify Key Criteria. ...
  2. Step 2: Brainstorm Ideas for Your Writing Sample. ...
  3. Step 3: Select One of Your Ideas. ...
  4. Step 4: Find Models To Emulate. ...
  5. Step 5: Outline & Write Your Idea. ...
  6. Step 6: Edit Your Writing Sample.

What is good to submit for a writing sample?

Choose a writing sample that is relevant for the job you're applying for. Here are some examples you may want to consider: Research papers from a job or class. Narrative papers from a job or class.

What qualifies as a legal writing sample?

Share your best legal writing.

Examples could include: moot court brief; upper year seminar paper or research project; memo, letter, administrative comments, or advocacy piece from an internship or externship; clinic work sample; or journal note. o Remember that your sample should (usually!) be only 5-10 pages.

Can I use Grammarly for LSAT writing?

If you haven't heard, the LSAT is going digital and with it comes the new LSAT Writing section. You'll now be able to write the essay at home on your computer after you complete the test. You can start improving your writing skills now with a free Grammarly account.

How long should a writing sample be law school?

The legal writing sample is an integral part of the hiring process for lawyers. Here are tips for preparing the best sample of your legal writing skills. The writing sample should be five to ten pages in length, unless otherwise indicated by a particular employer.

Can you have scratch paper on LSAT writing?

Scratch paper and writing utensils are not permitted during an LSAT Writing exam. They do, however, provide you with a digital note taking section available within the LSAT Writing module.

How many times can you take LSAT writing?

How many times may I take the LSAT? Three times in a single testing year (the next testing cycle begins with the August 2022 test). Five times within the current and five past testing years (the period in which LSAC reports scores to law schools). A total of seven times over a lifetime.

What score should you retake the LSAT?

Consider the LSAT averages or ranges of students the schools you're applying to admit to their program, and see how your score compares. If you're already above (or towards the 75th percentile of) the qualifications your schools look for, there's probably no need to bother with a retest just to gain admission.

Should I retake a 166 LSAT?

Are you looking to crash the gates at Yale? If so, 166 won't do it, and you've got to take it again. But for most schools, 166 makes you a shoo-in, and it's a competitive score at most top-20 schools, although that also depends on your GPA, too. I'd suggest taking a look at our Law School Compass .

How long should my LSAT writing response be?

While there is no word limit on your writing sample, you should aim to be as clear and concise as possible. Most LSAT writing samples are between two and four paragraphs long. Ensure you prioritize quality over quantity.

Is it better to type or write notes in law school?

Many law students type up notes, but studies have shown that sticking to old-school pen and paper can seriously improve your retention of the material discussed.

Do law schools look at your Instagram?

A study conducted by Kaplan Test Prep revealed that 43% of law school admissions officers have Googled or looked up applicants on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and other social media platforms. Furthermore, 37% said that they have found something online that negatively impacted an applicant's chances of admission.