examples of good lsat essays

LSAT Writing Sample: A Step by Step Example

Does the LSAT writing sample matter for law school admissions? Absolutely! First, you must have a completed LSAT writing sample on record in order to see your score for the other LSAT sections and for schools to get your LSAT score. But more importantly, even though the LSAT writing sample isn’t scored, it will be included as part of your law school application and admissions committees have the option to evaluate it as part of their decisions. So, make sure to prepare for the writing sample.

In this LSAT writing sample example, we’ll go over what you need to know about LSAT writing, followed by a step-by-step guide with sample responses. By following these basic steps, you can write a clear and persuasive essay that showcases your argumentative writing.

Table of Contents

Lsat writing sample basics.

• LSAT Writing Sample: How to Approach It (With Official Writing Prompt)

LSAT Writing Sample Prompt (PrepTest 73)

You have 35 minutes to complete the LSAT writing sample portion of the test. Since the introduction of the Digital LSAT, you now take the LSAT writing section using secure proctoring software. You’re able to choose the day and time you take this part of the exam (so yes, that means you can complete the LSAT writing sample at home ).

The LSAT writing prompt is often called a “decision prompt” because it asks you to make a decision between two choices based on the information provided. These choices can be anything from what pet a person should get to what kind of community center a town should build. There will be pros and cons for each choice. These choices don’t require any special knowledge of the topic—just use the information provided. The test-writers also don’t necessarily prefer one choice over the other—the point is that you must make a decision with your limited time and defend your decision well.

Note: As of July 2020, anyone taking the remote LSAT must have a complete writing sample on file before they can get their scores. So, if you’re wondering whether your LSAT writing sample matters , know that your scores won’t be released until you complete it! So, we don’t recommend putting it off for too long after your LSAT test day. If you’re feeling dread at the thought of completing this step of your law school application process, don’t worry; our LSAT experts are here to show you exactly how to approach the online LSAT writing sample!

LSAT Writing Sample: How to Approach It

Example lsat writing sample prompt.

Click here to view the LSAT writing sample prompt (taken from The Official LSAT Sample PrepTest of June 2007).

The June 2007 LSAT writing sample describes a decision that “BLZ Stores” have to make. They’re aiming to expand their stores and must choose a plan that should ideally accomplish two things. First, they want to increase their profits. Second, they want to ensure long-term financial stability.

We must choose between the national plan (to expand across the country in a short time) and the regional plan (to increase the number and size of stores in the company’s home region and upgrade their facilities, product quality, and service). Next, we’ll break down the decision-prompt structure and walk you through the key steps to writing a great LSAT writing sample.

Step 1: Brainstorm and Make an Outline

The first step for the LSAT writing sample is to brainstorm. Take a moment to think about which option you can defend most easily. Once you’ve decided, quickly outline the points you’ll make to defend it. Admissions committees will be looking for a writing sample that is well organized, so make sure you set up a loose outline before you start writing.

Your outline should include four major topics:

• Cons of the opposing choice

Put these items in an order that makes sense to you, and then get ready to write. In this example, let’s go ahead and choose the “regional plan” because:

• It can be the first step towards national expansion in the future.

Step 2: Begin Writing & Briefly Summarize Your Choice

The second step is to begin your LSAT writing sample. Start your intro paragraph by briefly summarizing what you’ll be discussing. It can go like this:

BLZ Stores is facing an important decision for its business trajectory. In order to expand, the company must choose between a national plan and a regional plan. Ultimately, its aim is to maximize profits and ensure stability in the future. This is a challenging decision because one option, the national plan, offers the potential for dramatic profits. The other option, the regional plan, is significantly more conservative and may not produce as much profit.

Step 3: Make Your Choice and Give Support

Next, continue the essay by announcing the option you think is best and why. It’s very important that you give at least three solid reasons why you’ve made your choice. At this stage, you can mention how it fulfills at least one of the main considerations better than the other option. Even if it doesn’t fulfill both perfectly, it might do an okay job with one consideration and a great job with the second.

Lots of students try to make the LSAT writing sample easier by bringing in new information that is either made up or comes from their own stored knowledge. This actually makes for a weaker writing sample, so be sure to avoid it.

Law school admissions committees want to see how well you can argue using the facts provided . Think of the facts given in the prompt like evidence in a trial. While you can and should make reasonable arguments and inferences based on the evidence, you don’t get to make evidence up on your own.

Despite the difficulty of the choice, one option is better than the other. BLZ Stores should opt for the regional plan. Firstly, the regional plan takes advantage of BLZ Stores’ favorable position in its local area. It is already a well-known and well-liked brand, so if it is to expand it should begin in an area where it’s most likely to succeed.

Secondly, since BLZ Stores is facing competition from other stores that can offer lower prices, the company should spend more time on its branding and marketing. It is important that if a company can’t offer the lowest prices, it offers ample reasons for customers to spend more at their store. For example, BLZ Stores can make its name synonymous with quality, luxury, or top-class shopping experience. This strategy will help defend the company against its increasing competition.

Most importantly, the national plan will place too much of the company’s focus on expansion. There will not be enough resources to fine-tune this marketing strategy. Thus, in the long run, it puts the company more at risk for huge financial losses.

Additionally, although the regional plan has less potential for immediate large profits than the national plan, it at least offers the chance of a fair amount of profits. It is a good balance of risk and reward.

Step 4: Acknowledge the Other Option’s Pros and Cons

Be sure to acknowledge the arguments in favor of the other option while discussing why those arguments don’t support your option as strongly. If you can’t think of a rebuttal to a particular point, that’s okay. You can always acknowledge that point and say that it doesn’t outweigh the factors in favor of the option you chose.

Next, it’s important to note that while the national plan offers the potential of higher profits, it is also a very high risk for BLZ Stores. Other companies in presumably better positions have failed at dramatic, national expansions. Since this company aims to ensure long-term financial stability, it’s not in its best interest to take such a significant risk. Plus, the risk is amplified by the fact that they are not well-known outside of their hometown.

Step 5: Reiterate Why Your Choice Is the Best and Summarize Your Argument

Make sure you leave yourself enough time to close your writing sample with a concise conclusion. Writing samples that end mid-thought are weaker than those that end with a strong and concise statement of the position you argued in favor of.

If possible, also try to leave yourself one minute at the end of the LSAT writing sample to go through your essay and check for errors.

In the end, BLZ Stores should choose the regional plan because it takes advantage of its good position in its community, offers a fair amount of profits, and can allow the company to improve its branding and popularity for the future. Although the national plan might produce higher profits if it succeeds, it does not satisfy the company’s objective of having long-term financial stability. With a solid strategy in mind, BLZ Stores are bound to fare better under the regional plan.

How do I practice LSAT writing?

The best way to hone your LSAT writing skills is to write practice essays and compare it to our step-by-step guide. Did you clearly make a decision and back it up with evidence from the information provided? Did you lay out the pros and cons of your side and the opposition’s? Keep all this in mind as you write and review your practice essays.

To get you started, here is one more LSAT writing sample topics for you to practice with. Try to complete this practice essay within the 35-minute assignment time limit.

This prompt comes from the official LSAT PrepTest 73 and is provided with LSAC®️’s permission.

Directions: The scenario presented below describes two choices, either one of which can be supported on the basis of the information given. Your essay should consider both choices and argue for one over the other, based on the two specified criteria and the facts provided. There is no “right” or “wrong” choice: a reasonable argument can be made for either.

A medium-sized company is located in a technology park in a sparsely populated area outside a major city. It has had difficulty retaining employees because of the long and expensive commute between the city and work that nearly all of its employees face. Consequently, the company will implement a commuting assistance plan. It must decide between operating a free bus for employees and subsidizing employees’ costs of using public transportation. Using the facts below, write an essay in which you argue for one plan over the other based on the following two criteria:

• The company wants reliability and flexibility in its employees’ work schedules.

Under the first plan, the company would lease a bus and hire a driver. The bus would make several daily circuits between the company’s location and a single downtown stop, accessible by public transportation and close to a large, inexpensive parking garage. The only riders on the bus would be the company’s employees. The bus has reclining seats and free Wi-Fi. The average total commute time for an employee would be 75 minutes each way. A breakdown of the bus would be disruptive to the company’s operations.

Under the second plan, the company would partially reimburse employees’ cost of using public transportation to commute to work. The average savings for an employee would be about 80 percent. Most of the employees live within walking distance to a bus stop. Most employees would have to make one or two transfers. Buses are scheduled to arrive every half hour at a bus shelter in the technology park. Buses are sometimes late. None of them have Wi-Fi. The average total commute time for an employee would be 60 minutes each way.

How do you think you did? Let us know in the comments below. For more advice on how to tackle this important LSAT section, check out these five tips for the LSAT writing sample .  

Need more help?

With Magoosh LSAT , you can choose between a live cohorted class with an instructor (which includes all our lessons and practice questions) or access to the self-study option by itself.

Kevin Lin earned a B.A. from UC Berkeley and a J.D. from Columbia Law School. After working as a lawyer for several years, both at the U.S. Attorney’s Office and at a large New York law firm, he succumbed to his love of the LSAT and teaching and has been a full-time LSAT instructor since 2015. Beginning first at a major test prep company and rising to become one of its most experienced and highly rated instructors, he began tutoring independently in 2019. Kevin has worked with LSAT students at all stages of their preparation, from complete beginners to LSAT veterans shooting for the 99th percentile. Connect and learn more about Kevin on YouTube , LinkedIn , and his website .

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8 responses to “LSAT Writing Sample: A Step by Step Example”

GREAT article. This was so helpful and organized in explaining every point. I feel much more confident in taking the writing portion after reading this.

We’re glad to hear that it was helpful for you! Good luck 🙂

I feel a bit torn on how to approach the LSAT writing section.

Here the example is very lengthy, following almost a standard 5 paragraph structure. The example given on some other sites including Khan Academy which the LSAC supposedly helped develop focus on conciseness, usually following a two paragraph structure, and avoiding retreading information like one would normally in a format with an intro and conclusion. There are also alternative formats on other sites.

It seems like there’s no real consensus on how to approach the section. Should I just do what feels right or will certain formats put me at a disadvantage and you strongly recommend the one listed here? Are any top law schools known to have a particular approach they like to see?

I’m probably overthinking all this, but the more I research it the more I’m unsure how to approach it.

With the writing sample, law schools want to see how well you can argue and defend a position with the facts provided and limited time. So don’t worry about the length or number of paragraphs too much. Just make sure you pick a side, express your points clearly, and leave yourself enough time to complete the full writing process (doing timed practice sessions will help with this). Hope that helps!

Thank you so much! It was super helpful to get tips on how to tackle the writing section along with an example of a good essay.

You’re so welcome Signe! We’re so glad this was helpful! 😀

Best of luck to you!

Hi, the link to the writing sample prompt (the one that provides the examples throughout this article) does not work. It prompts me with the LSAC log-in page that’s for law school admission staff only, even though I am already logged into LSAC with my JD account.

Thanks for letting us know about that! We’ll fix that up as soon as we can. In the meantime, I can copy the prompt for you here:

“BLZ Stores, an established men’s clothing retailer with a chain of stores in a major metropolitan area, is selecting a plan for expansion. Using the facts below, write an essay in which you argue for one of the following plans over the other based on the following two criteria:

The company wants to increase its profits. The company wants to ensure its long-term financial stability. ​ The “national plan” is to open a large number of men’s clothing stores throughout the country over a short period of time. In doing this, the company would incur considerable debt. It would also have to greatly increase staff and develop national marketing and distribution capabilities. Many regional companies that adopted this strategy increased their profits dramatically. A greater number tried and failed, suffering severe financial consequences. BLZ is not well known outside its home area. Research indicates that the BLZ name is viewed positively by those who know it. National clothing chains can offer lower prices because of their greater buying power. BLZ currently faces increasingly heavy competition in its home region from such chains.

The “regional plan” is to increase the number and size of stores in the company’s home region and upgrade their facilities, product quality, and service. This could be achieved for the most part with existing cash reserves. These upgrades would generally increase the prices that BLZ charges. In one trial store in which such changes were implemented, sales and profits have increased. The local population is growing. BLZ enjoys strong customer loyalty. Regional expansion could be accomplished primarily using BLZ’s experienced and loyal staff and would allow continued reliance on known and trusted suppliers, contractors, and other business connections.”

Hope this helps, and Happy Studying! 😀

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Lsat writing sample - a step-by-step guide + example.

Reviewed by:

David Merson

Former Head of Pre-Law Office, Northeastern University, & Admissions Officer, Brown University

Reviewed: 3/18/24

The writing section is an often overlooked part of the Law School Admission Test. Read on to learn how to approach the LSAT Writing Sample.

Part of becoming an excellent lawyer is having strong persuasive oral and written communication skills. Law schools require students to complete a writing sample as part of the challenging LSAT exam to assess potential law students on this skill.

If writing under pressure isn’t your forte, this guide will go over what you can expect on the writing sample, how to complete it efficiently, and give you a sample LSAT prompt to help you prepare!

LSAT Writing Sample Prompt

Just like sample LSAT questions can help you study, looking at essay examples can help you prepare. Here’s a past LSAT writing sample prompt you can use to begin honing your writing skills! 

​​Brighter Construction is deciding which of two upcoming construction projects to bid on—resurfacing Hilltop Road or expanding Carlene Boulevard. 

Since Brighter cannot fulfill both contracts at the same time and bids constitute binding commitments, Brighter can only bid on one of the projects. Using the facts below, write an essay arguing for one project over the other based on the following two criteria:

- Brighter wants to enhance its reputation among potential clients

- Brighter wants to increase its capacity to take on bigger projects

The Hilltop Road resurfacing is a small project. The potential profit is relatively low. With Brighter’s experience and resources, it is almost certain to win the contract, and it is highly likely to finish on time and within budget. Brighter has an established reputation for finishing projects on time and within budget.  

Brighter has specialized in small projects. Construction firms specializing in small projects find it increasingly difficult over time to win contracts for bigger projects. If the project is completed under budget, Brighter will keep the extra money. 

If it is over budget, Brighter must cover the additional costs. Brighter will use any extra money to purchase additional heavy equipment. 

The Carlene Boulevard expansion is a large project. The potential profit is much higher. It involves a kind of work that Brighter has never done before and that would require it to explain its operation. Because of the overall nature of this project, Brighter believes it has a good chance of winning the contract.

It is uncertain whether Brighter can finish the project on time and within budget. Even if brighter exceeds time and budget constraints, it will gain valuable experience. If the project goes over budget, Brighter will lose money. 

As you can see, this prompt offers two courses of action and asks you to choose whichever matches the stated criteria best. After carefully reading the prompt and following the above tips, you should be able to formulate a solid argument!

Model Answer Example

Here is a great LSAT writing example for the above prompt: 

“Based on the two criteria given, it is advisable for Brighter Construction to bid on the Carlene Boulevard expansion project.

Firstly, to enhance Brighter Construction's reputation, winning and completing the Carlene Boulevard project would have greater benefits than the Hilltop Road resurfacing project. While it is true that Brighter Construction has established a reputation for finishing projects on time and within budgets, this reputation is limited to small projects. 

As the prompt suggests, specializing in small projects can make it harder for companies to win contracts for bigger projects over time. Brighter Construction can demonstrate its ability to handle larger, more complex projects by taking on the challenge of an expandable project like Carlene Boulevard. Clients looking for construction firms to manage big projects will take notice of this. Furthermore, as the prompt indicates, the Carlene Boulevard expansion has the potential for higher profits. 

Winning this project will open up doors for Brighter Construction, which can lead to more high-profit projects in the future. It will be an excellent chance for Brighter Construction to expand its operation and be better positioned to take on even more significant projects. Therefore, even if Brighter Construction does not profit from the Carlene Boulevard expansion project, it can prepare itself to handle bigger projects better than before and take up more significant opportunities in the future.

The Carlene Boulevard expansion project presents a more significant opportunity on the second criterion of increasing capacity to take on bigger projects. As mentioned above, this project is much bigger and requires new and more advanced resources. Hence, Brighter Construction will acquire the necessary resources to handle bigger projects after winning this project. This experience will allow Brighter Construction to take on more large-scale projects. The company will have successfully expanded its operations, and thus, it can bid on more significant projects in the future. The more significant the projects Brighter Construction takes on, the higher the profits that come with them.

Moreover, the Carlene Boulevard expansion project will provide valuable experience to Brighter Construction. The fact that it is unsure if it will complete the project on time and within budget means that the company will learn new skills, gain new insights, and discover new strategies. Brighter Construction will learn to optimize its resources better if it exceeds budget constraints. The company will undoubtedly face challenges and obstacles throughout the project, and this experience will be priceless. It will enable Brighter Construction to improve its work quality and overall competence and help win more significant projects in the future.

In conclusion, while the Hilltop Road resurfacing project seems safer, Brighter Construction should bid on the Carlene Boulevard expansion project to enhance its reputation among potential clients and increase its capacity to take on more significant projects. This project will provide Brighter Construction with valuable experience, allow it to acquire new resources, and allow the company to prove its ability to handle more substantial projects successfully. Winning this project will be an excellent chance for Brighter Construction to expand its operations, prepare to take on even more significant opportunities in the future, and increase its profitability accordingly.”

Why This Answer Is Good

What makes this essay good is that it gets straight to the point. It strongly argues for one side and provides relevant examples to support that argument. 

The essay advocates for Brighter Construction to prioritize bidding on the Carlene Boulevard expansion project over the Hilltop Road resurfacing project based on enhancing reputation and increasing capacity for larger projects. 

It successfully argues that winning the Carlene project would demonstrate the company's ability to handle more significant endeavors and open doors to higher-profit opportunities. 

How is the LSAT Writing Test Scored? 

The LSAT writing sample is not scored and does not affect your overall LSAT writing score. However, it is still considered an integral part of the admissions process as it provides a window into your aptitude for a career as a lawyer. 

Similar to the experimental section, the writing sample is reviewed by admissions committees alongside your LSAT score and other application materials to evaluate your ability to construct a well-organized, logically coherent argument. 

Each law school evaluates the writing sample differently, but missing or weak responses have been used as grounds for rejection by law schools.

How to Approach the LSAT Writing Sample

Planning and writing an entire essay within 35 minutes might seem intimidating. To make this process less daunting, here are our top steps to approach the writing sample. 

By going through each of these steps, you can not only help you master the writing section, but you’ll also free up space to focus on the rest of your LSAT prep . It’s a smart way to balance your study time.

Read the Prompt Carefully

Before you begin writing your essay, you must consider all the facts. You should be able to make your decision based solely on the information you have given. Read the prompt carefully to determine which side you can create the best argument for. 

Focus on the Facts

Even if you’re well-versed in the topic presented, you should only use the information given to you to make an argument. Do not include outside information that you believe will strengthen your argument.

Admissions committees want to see how you create arguments with limited information to test your analysis and reasoning skills. 

Remember, There Is No Right or Wrong Answer

There is no right or wrong answer to these prompts. They are presented in a way that will make it somewhat challenging to choose the option with the most supporting evidence, but either side can be argued.

Choose whichever side you feel you can create the most persuasive argument for, even if it goes against what you would traditionally side with.

If you’re having difficulty choosing a side, try to jot down a few pros and cons for each and see which side has the most pros. 

Make a Plan

To avoid wasting time, getting writer’s block, or writing an incohesive essay, you should give yourself around 10 minutes to plan your essay. Create a quick outline detailing what each paragraph of your essay will argue.

Many LSAT test-takers write their sample in a series of short or only two paragraphs—one detailing the advantages of their chosen side and another detailing the disadvantages of the opposing side. You should choose a structure you feel most comfortable with.

Your first paragraph should state your stance. In your remaining paragraphs, you should mention the strengths of your choice and the cons of the opposite side. 

Your writing sample will also list certain criteria when choosing a side. Ensure you include these in your outline. 

Conclude your essay briefly by reiterating your stance and summarizing the main reasons you chose one side over the other. Your essay plan should be completed using jot notes to avoid wasting the time you’ll need to write and revise your sample.

Keep Your Writing Clear and Concise

The best way to get your point across clearly is to use simple language that is easy to understand. Do not try to impress the committee by using vocabulary you aren’t familiar with. You should also only use words that you are sure you can spell correctly. 

Leave Time to Edit

While 35 minutes may not seem like a lot of time, once you’ve created a rough plan for your essay, it won’t take too long to write it out. Remember, this essay should only be a few short paragraphs! 

You will make at least a few silly errors as you race against the clock to finish your essay and hit the LSAT writing deadline. Since this sample is meant to give the admissions committee insight into your writing skills, you must revise your writing to eliminate any avoidable spelling, grammar, or syntax errors. 

Give yourself around five minutes to review your sample to find these mistakes before submitting it. 

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Approach LSAT Writing Essay

If you have no idea where to start for your LSAT writing sample, don’t fret. We’ve compiled a step-by-step guide to help you break down the writing process. 

Taking time to practice your LSAT writing essay is a great way to self-study for the LSAT . You may also want to look at an LSAT writing example to get your ideas flowing as you practice your writing. 

But the best way to improve your writing is simply to write! So, please look at our guide below to help you learn how to approach the LSAT writing sample. 

Step One: Compare and Contrast

To build a strong argument, you need to understand both sides thoroughly. Before writing, create a list to compare and contrast the opposing arguments. This way, you can weigh the choices before you decide which side you’re on. 

There are several ways to do this. You may create a side-by-side chart, a pro-and-con list, a Venn diagram, or a thought map—the possibilities are endless! Use whatever works best for you to organize your thoughts effectively. 

Step Two: Prioritize

Now, it’s time to examine each argument carefully. Pay attention to its strengths and weaknesses and the criteria and factors provided. 

When prioritizing, consider what is most important in the situation. Which potential consequence would be a greater loss? This should help clarify which argument is stronger. 

Step Three: Make a Decision

Considering all of the above, choose a side to argue for. Be confident and prepared to defend your choice in your essay fully. Use the brainstorming you’ve done in steps one and two to create an outline for your writing sample. 

Step Four: Get Writing

Now that your argument has been built, it’s time to start writing! Remember to keep it concise--every sentence should be purposeful and necessary. Avoid fluff and filler words. 

Defend Your Choice

Start by explaining why your choice is the best one. List the factors that you prioritized and your reasons for doing so. You should have at least three strong reasons for your argument. 

Since there is no “right” answer, your argument may have weak points, which you should address. Explain why these weak points aren't significant or how the strengths in your argument compensate for them. 

Explain How the Opposition Falls Short

You don’t have to bash the other side. It’s a good idea to mention the opposition's strengths, as it shows you’ve made your decision carefully. But you should point out the “fatal flaw” of the other choice that led you to reject it. Be thorough and explain your thinking in detail. 

Step Five: Revise

Thoughtless errors never put you in a good light with admissions committees. As we mentioned before, leave yourself some time to proofread your writing sample and edit out any mistakes! 

Common Mistakes in LSAT Writing Section

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when completing the LSAT Writing section.

Misinterpreting the Prompt

Misinterpreting the LSAT essay prompt is a common mistake that significantly undermines the essay's effectiveness. This error occurs when test-takers fail to fully grasp the nuances of the prompt, leading to essays that address the wrong issue. 

Rapid reading without carefully considering the specific question can result in a lack of understanding between the essay's content and the intended evaluative criteria. This weakens the essay's persuasiveness and coherence. 

To avoid this, test-takers should invest time in comprehending the prompt, identifying key issues, and ensuring their responses specifically address the outlined instructions.

Lack of Evidence

Not using evidence to support your argument in an LSAT essay weakens the persuasive power of arguments. This mistake often results from inadequate preparation or time constraints, leading to hastily chosen examples. 

To address this, test-takers should prioritize relevant, specific, and well-developed evidence to ensure the credibility of their claims and avoid potential counterarguments that could weaken the overall persuasiveness of the essay.

Provide a Clear Conclusion

A lack of a proper conclusion in an LSAT essay diminishes its impact by depriving the reader of a clear takeaway. This oversight, often due to time constraints, results in an abrupt ending that leaves the essay incomplete. 

A well-crafted conclusion, summarizing key points and offering a compelling final thought, is crucial for reinforcing the main ideas and enhancing the overall coherence and impact of the essay.

Are you wondering if you’re ready to take the LSAT? Take this “ Am I Ready For the LSAT? Quiz ” to determine if you can take this difficult exam! 

FAQs: LSAT Writing 

Here are some commonly asked questions about this section of the LSAT, to help you understand what to expect and how to prepare.

1. How Long Should My Writing Sample on the LSAT Be?

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

2. How to Prepare for the Writing Sample on the LSAT?

The best way to prepare for the writing sample is to review sample prompts and answer them under the same time constraints you’ll be in on test day.

3. Do Law Schools Read the Writing Sample on the LSAT?

Yes, law schools do read the writing samples to assess candidates’ writing and argumentative skills.

4. How Long Is the Writing Sample on the LSAT? 

You will have 35 minutes to complete the writing sample on the LSAT. 

5. Do You Have to Take The LSAT Writing More Than Once?

No, you do not have to take LSAT writing more than once. You are only required to submit one writing sample for your LSAT to be considered complete.

Final Thoughts

Given the stress you’ll be under trying to master all three sections of the LSAT, knowing you’ll also have to write an essay can make acing the LSAT seem impossible! 

Knowing how to approach the LSAT to write the most effective argument should ease some of this stress and help ensure you write a compelling sample to impress the judges!

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LSAT Writing

LSAT Writing ®

Write for success in your legal education journey

Persuasive writing skills are key to law school success. Law school faculty care about their students’ ability to organize evidence into a position and argue logically in writing that is structurally sound. In fact, in LSAC’s most recent LSAT Skills Analysis Study , law school faculty identified these writing skills as among the top 10 skills needed for success in law school.

LSAT Writing is included in the LSAT ® to give law school candidates the opportunity to demonstrate their persuasive writing skills. 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.

LSAT Writing is a proctored, on-demand writing exam that is administered online using secure proctoring software that is installed on the candidate’s computer.

LSAC’s approach to this section has shortened the LSAT test day and provides more flexibility for candidates taking the exam by letting them complete the writing portion at a convenient time and place of their choosing. 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 LSAT score or have their score released to schools.

LSAT Writing uses the same decision-prompt structure that schools and candidates are already familiar with from previous LSAT administrations. This structure is specifically designed to elicit the kind of argumentative writing that candidates will be expected to produce in law school. Candidates will still be given 35 minutes to write an essay in response to the prompt that is presented to them.

Quick Facts about LSAT Writing

Online administration.

LSAT Writing is a remote-proctored online writing exam, delivered through LSAC LawHub ® . The test lasts 35 minutes and can be taken on-demand, anywhere in the world with a strong and stable internet connection. 

Before You Begin — Top Tips

If your LSAT Writing session is flagged for further review, it may delay the release of your LSAT score. Review these tips to avoid having your session flagged.

Required for LSAT Scoring

LSAT Writing samples are not scored, but LSAT Writing is a required part of the LSAT. Your LSAT score cannot be released to you or to law schools if you haven’t completed an LSAT Writing sample.

Take a Practice Writing Prompt

Through your free LSAC LawHub account, you have access to an official Writing Sample Practice Prompt that can help you prepare for exam day. This writing prompt was part of a real LSAT administration in 2016 and is representative of the kind of prompts currently used in the LSAT Writing assessment. You can use this prompt to get familiar with both the content and the interface of the LSAT Writing exam.

You can sign into LawHub with your LSAC username and password.

Testing Accommodations

Through our deep commitment to disability rights, LSAC will continue to address the needs of all individuals with disabilities who require testing accommodations. We will make every effort to ensure all individuals are able to fully demonstrate their skills when they take the LSAT and LSAT Writing.

Learn More about testing accommodations

Learn How to Verify Your ID on Exam Day

valid, government-issued photo ID . We’ve compiled a list of tips, so you’ll know what to do (and not do!) when it’s time to photograph your ID on exam day. If your LSAT Writing sample is flagged due to ID issues, it could delay the release of your LSAT score.-->To begin your LSAT Writing exam, you’ll need to take a photo of your valid, government-issued photo ID. Please ensure that the photo of your ID is clear and recognizable. Images of IDs that are blurry, out of focus, or unrecognizable will not be accepted and your writing sample will be canceled. Please review the image of your ID on your screen for clarity before capturing the image.

Review ID Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions About Testing

How do i register for lsat writing.

One administration of LSAT Writing is included in your LSAT registration. By registering for the LSAT, you will be automatically eligible to complete the writing section as of eight (8) days before you take the multiple-choice portion of the LSAT. You can access LSAT Writing from your LSAC online account.

NOTE: The LSAT registration fee includes both the multiple-choice portion of the LSAT and LSAT Writing. There are no additional fees associated with LSAT Writing.

When can I take LSAT Writing?

Candidates are eligible to take LSAT Writing starting eight (8) days prior to their LSAT administration. For your LSAT to be considered complete, you will need to take the LSAT Writing section of the test if you do not already have a writing sample on file from a previous LSAT administration. Most law schools require a writing sample as an integral part of their admission decision, and therefore, you should take the writing sample immediately to meet schools’ application deadlines. Your writing sample will be shared with you and the law schools to which you have applied as soon as it is complete. Candidates will be required to have a completed writing sample in their file in order to see their test score or have their score released to law schools.

How long do I have to complete LSAT Writing?

Candidates will be given 35 minutes to write an essay in response to the prompt that is presented to them.

If you do not have a writing sample on file, we encourage you to complete LSAT Writing as soon as you can. 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. Most law schools require a writing sample as an integral part of their admission decision, and therefore, you should take the writing sample immediately to meet schools’ application deadlines.

In case you are not applying in the current cycle, please note you have a maximum of a year to take LSAT Writing. For questions, please contact LSAC’s Candidate Services team at  [email protected]  or 1.800.336.3982 .

What can I use to write notes since scratch paper is prohibited?

Unlike the multiple-choice portion of the LSAT, physical scratch paper and writing utensils are not permitted during the standard administration of LSAT Writing. Instead, the LSAT Writing interface includes a built-in, digital “Scratch Paper” section where you’ll be able to type notes, instead of writing them on a physical piece of scratch paper.

How is test security managed for LSAT Writing?

The secure proctoring platform uses input from the webcam, microphone, and screen of the candidate’s own computer to ensure that the writing sample is the candidate’s own work, and that the candidate is not receiving any inappropriate assistance.

Prior to the exam, candidates will complete a video check-in process. As part of the check-in process, candidates will be required to clearly display a physical, valid government-issued photo ID issued by the United States of America, U.S. Territories, Canada, or Australia or an international passport for the camera to capture. This image must not be blurry or out of focus. Candidates will also be required to show their workspace using their webcam, to ensure that only permissible items are in that space. The room will be scanned to make sure no other people or prohibited items are in the room. Candidates who require additional items in their workspace due to a disability may seek appropriate accommodations through the standard procedures for  requesting testing accommodations .

The proctoring software will automatically close any messaging, word-processing, or web-browsing applications before the exam begins and prevent such applications from being opened during the exam.  

Audio and video from every testing session will be reviewed by trained proctors.

Please review the Test and Test-Taker Security FAQs for more information.

View more LSAT Writing FAQs

The writing sample at the end of the LSAT, while often treated like an afterthought, is still important. Thankfully, we here at LSAT Engine have put together a crash course on the topic so you’ll be prepared on test day.

For a full video explanation of an actual writing sample prompt, where Justin walks you through each step of the essay planning process, click here!

How the Writing Sample Works:

• It occurs at the end of the LSAT after the 5 multiple-choice sections. The proctors will typically collect your multiple-choice answer sheet before distributing the writing sample prompt.
• You'll have roughly 1.5 pages of lined paper to write on, and almost a whole page to do some planning and outlining on.
• It's way less important than the multiple-choice part of the test.
• Admissions committees might only skim it or not read it at all.
• However, sometimes the writing sample functions as a check against your personal statement. For example, if you write an amazing personal statement, which is getting you into a law school that you may not have gotten into based on stats alone, then the admissions committee will definitely read your writing sample to verify that your personal statement is actually your writing.
• Admissions officers know that your writing sample essay isn’t going to be your magnum opus; they are fully aware that you just took a mentally grueling 3-hour test.
• A few misspellings can be overlooked, but make sure to avoid grammatical mistakes. Keep it simple and clear.
• The prompt is always a “decision prompt” that requires you to choose 1 of 2 options and argue in favor of it.
• Your goal is to be persuasive, not unbiased.
• You should try to be as convincing as possible, though you can't make up facts to support your position. You've got to work with the set of facts that you are given.

Format of the Writing Sample Section:

• Instructions – these explain how you should approach the writing sample.
• Choice Overview – the situation and the 2 options are described broadly.
• 2 criteria – your decision to choose one side over the other must be based solely on these 2 criteria.
• Choice 1 details – all the pros and cons of choice 1.
• Choice 2 details – all the pros and cons of choice 2.

The 2 choices are going to be pretty even in terms of their pros and cons. There is no right answer, you should just choose the position that you think you can do a better job of advocating.

Planning Your Essay:

• Write down pros and cons for both choices, based on the 2 stated criteria from the introduction.
• Pick the side that you think has the strongest pros or the slightest cons; they're usually pretty evenly matched.
• Make it clear to your reader that you planned the essay ahead of time; make the structure obvious.
• Keep it simple and straightforward; don't trip over yourself trying to impress the reader.

A Good Essay Format:

• P1 Intro: Set the stage, re-establish the 2 given criteria, and say what choice should be made.
• P2 Body: Base this paragraph on the given criteria that most strongly favors your choice. Include all your pros and the other side’s cons as far as that criteria is concerned.
• P3 Body: Base this paragraph on the other given criteria. Include all your pros and the other side’s cons. You may concede an obvious shortcoming of your side, and then minimize it.
• P4 Conclusion: Make it short and sweet. Similar to the intro, reaffirm the selected choice, but don't add any new support.

Again, if you would like to see Justin work through this process on video with a real LSAT Writing Sample prompt, check it out here!

We hope this post cleared up any confusion regarding the most ambiguous (and often forgotten) section of the LSAT! Happy studying!

Posted: 7-10-2018

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LSAT Writing Sample

Home » Free LSAT Prep Course » LSAT Writing Sample

The LSAT Writing Sample asks you to write an essay in 35 minutes. Although this does not affect your LSAT score, it is wise to invest a few hours in preparing for it. Those who don’t prepare at all often write terrible essays, possibly even bad enough to endanger a student’s admission chances. Spend a few hours looking at sample essays to avoid any unnecessary mistakes.

The essay section is designed to test how well you can (1) organize a compelling argument using sound reasoning and supporting evidence and (2) express your thoughts clearly in written form. The essay section is NOT meant to test how many big vocabulary words you know, how much you know about the law or any other specific topic, or really even how creative you are.

The writing sample is not likely to play a major role in law school admissions, so we recommend prioritizing other aspects of LSAT prep. You can take 20 minutes to review this content now, our start with our LSAT course and come back to this page later.

The New Digital LSAT

With the introduction of the Digital LSAT, the delivery of the LSAT Writing Sample has been revised:

The New Digital LSAT Writing Sample Video Summary

• 00:20 – The writing sample has been removed from test day. Instead you will submit it online from your own computer.
• 00:28 – You will be monitored with a video camera and microphone.
• 00:43 – This may mean that law schools will look at the writing sample more, since they will have digital copies rather than a hand-written ones.
• 01:30 – Some law schools are starting to consider writing more, even including a writing prompt in interviews.
• 01:58 – Clear, concise writing skills are crucial for lawyers.

What will the topic be?

You won’t be asked to write about a specific topic so much as you’ll be asked to respond to a specific scenario. The scenario will always be presented in the same form. Here’s a watered-down example (keep in mind that the scenario on your exam will be more involved):

John wants to buy a pet. He is choosing between a cat and a dog. He only has time to care for one pet. Write an essay in which you argue for the purchase of one type of pet over the other based on the following considerations:

• John wants a pet that will be relatively maintenance-free.
• John wants a pet that will be a true, loyal companion.

The first option, the cat, is a clean pet that does not typically damage or destroy household property. While the cat does need to be fed twice per day, it does not need to be taken for daily walks. The cat is very aloof and non-responsive to human interaction, but it does grow attached to its human owner over time.

The second option, the dog, requires daily attention. The dog has been known to damage household property, and it requires walks on a daily basis. With training, the dog can learn to be relatively self-sufficient. The dog responds to human interaction and craves the attention of its human owner, but it can’t communicate very well with humans.

As mentioned earlier, the scenario will always be presented in the same way. The first part will present a choice, the second part (the bullet statements) will present two considerations that need to be weighed in making that choice, and the third part will provide more information about the two choices at hand. Notice that there is no right or wrong answer here. In fact, the scenario is presented in such a way as to make it difficult to decide which option is better! They both have their pros and cons. What’s important is NOT which option you choose, but rather how you justify, or support, the choice that you do end up making.

How should I write my essay?

The following will outline a process for planning and writing your essay. It certainly isn’t the only way to do it, but it does provide a consistent, repeatable approach that you’ll be able to rely on. Practice these steps on a few real writing sample prompts, and you should be prepared for the writing sample.

Step 1: Compile information in grid form (5 minutes total for steps 1-3)

In the test booklet, set up a table that has the two choices along the top and the two considerations along the side. In the intersecting cells of the grid, include the appropriate pros and cons using a “+” before any pro and a “-“ before any con. For our example, it might look like this:

You’re familiar with cats and dogs, so it’s probably already obvious to you that a cat would be a good low-maintenance choice and a dog would be good for companionship. Keep in mind, however, that the scenario you will see on your exam will be much less familiar to you. Organizing the information in grid form will make it much easier for you to see the relative strengths and weaknesses of each choice.

Step 2: Decide on a “more important” consideration (5 minutes total for steps 1-3)

At this point, you want to make a decision. Is it more important for John that the pet be maintenance-free or that it be a loyal companion? Again, there’s no right answer. Even so, you need to decide which you will make more important. Choose one that you can easily justify (even if it’s a made-up justification). For example, we’ll decide:

“Having a loyal companion is more important than having a low-maintenance pet because true friendship trumps all else. If John has a true companion and friend, the daily maintenance will become a labor of love instead of a hassle.”

Step 3: Make your choice! (5 minutes total for steps 1-3)

Your decision in step 2 should lead you to a clear choice. In this case, if we deem companionship to be the more important consideration, then we’ll want to choose the dog (since the dog clearly has more compelling pros in that part of the grid).

“John should pick the dog because it will serve as a more loyal companion than the cat will.”

Step 4: Write the essay (25 minutes)

Plan on structuring your essay the same way every time. Here’s an easy template to follow:

Essay Section Template Paragraph 1: A. Summarize the decision to be made.   “The scenario presented above puts John in a position in which he will choose between purchasing a cat and purchasing a dog.” B. Acknowledge the complexity of the decision.  “Given the considerations and characteristics of the choices at hand, this is a very difficult decision in that each choice has its merits.” C. State your opinion.  “Even so, John would be better served by choosing the dog.” Paragraph 2: A. State why the primary consideration (the one you chose to be the primary consideration) is more important and how your choice satisfies this consideration.  “ First, it is more important to have a pet that serves as a loyal companion than it is to have a pet that is maintenance-free…” (Justify this statement, even if it’s a made-up justification.) “The dog will be a loyal companion in that it will …” (Use the information from the grid to show how.) B. State why the other choice (cat) falls short in this regard.   “The cat, on the other hand, is a poor match for anyone looking for a loyal pet …” (Use the information from the grid to show how.) Paragraph 3: State how your choice still does an okay job with the secondary consideration.   “Furthermore, while the dog isn’t an ideal choice for someone wanting a maintenance-free pet, it can learn to be relatively self-sufficient…” (Use any other information from the grid to support this.) Paragraph 4: Summarize your argument

Step 5: Proofread! (5 minutes)

Spelling errors, misprints, grammatical errors, etc. will never go over well. While a few simple mistakes won’t kill you, you want to be sure your final essay is as clean as possible.

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Expert LSAT Writing Samples for Practice!

Featured Expert: Sonia Hayer, JD

Check out expert LSAT writing sample examples we have for you in this article! To get a good LSAT score, you must prepare with different LSAT practice questions , including LSAT writing sample prompts, LSAT logic games , and many others! In this blog, you will learn everything you need to ace this unscored section of the LSAT and read amazing LSAT writing samples! Let’s dive in!

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

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Article Contents 12 min read

What is the lsat writing sample.

The LSAT writing sample is an unscored portion of the LSAT designed to measure your ability to form a coherent, persuasive argument in a limited amount of time. In 35 minutes or less, to be exact. Traditionally, it was administered in person at the end of the LSAT. However, since 2019, the writing sample is taken separately from the rest of the test and can be completed online at a time and place of your choosing, though within a specific window after your LSAT test date .

Want to learn how to use ChatGPT to get into law school? Watch this video:

Even though it is not one of the scored LSAT sections , you must still learn how you can do well in the limited amount of time you are given. You are given 35 minutes to complete the writing sample. While there's no strict word limit, the time constraint naturally limits how much you can write. This means that you have to practice delivering sound, well-argued essays as part of your LSAT prep. Remember to aim for a well-reasoned and clear response rather than an overly lengthy one – 300 words will be more than enough to deliver a well-argued, clear, and structured essay.

The LSAT writing sample prompts usually present a decision problem. You are given two criteria for making a decision and are asked to choose between two options. Both options are defensible, and the goal is not to pick the "right" answer but to defend the chosen position effectively.

Even though the LSAT writing sample does not affect your final LSAT score or law school acceptance rates , it still holds significance in the admissions process. Here's how it's evaluated and utilized:

Demonstration of Writing Skills: Admissions committees assess the writing sample to gauge your ability to articulate a clear, coherent, and persuasive argument within a limited timeframe. This is essential in law, where clear and concise writing is imperative. The sample can attest to your writing proficiency, especially when you’re under pressure and time constraints.

Comparative Analysis: The writing sample can be compared to other written elements of your application, such as the law school personal statement , law school diversity statement , and other law school optional essays . This helps admissions officers verify the authenticity of your writing style and ensures that the other components were likely written by you personally.

Analytical and Reasoning Abilities: The LSAT writing sample allows schools to see how you approach a decision-making scenario, which mirrors many legal situations. It showcases your ability to weigh options based on provided criteria and defend a chosen position, reflecting your analytical and reasoning skills.

Potential Red Flags: A poorly written or incoherent sample might raise concerns, especially if the rest of the application suggests strong writing skills. Discrepancies can trigger further scrutiny and may impact the admissions decision.

Holistic Evaluation: While the LSAT writing sample might not be the most weighty component of the application, it adds to the holistic picture admissions committees are trying to construct of each applicant. Every piece contributes to understanding of your academic abilities, potential for success in law school, and fit for the institution.

Deciding on Borderline Cases: This is perhaps the most significant use of the LSAT writing sample. For applicants on the cusp of acceptance or rejection, every component of the LSAT and application can be critical. In such scenarios, a compelling writing sample might tip the scales in favor of acceptance. It may even have more effect than the law school letter of continued interest .

The LSAT writing sample, as of recent changes to the LSAT format, is now administered separately from the multiple-choice portion of the test and is taken online. Here's a breakdown of when might be the best time to tackle it:

Take It Shortly After the LSAT: You may want to prefer to complete the writing sample soon after your LSAT test date while the experience and test-taking mindset are still fresh. Doing so ensures you don't forget about it, and you can finalize all aspects of your LSAT promptly. All your LSAT prep will be fresh on your mind, so don’t procrastinate!

Take It in the Morning: Since the writing sample is online, you can select a time that suits you best. This flexibility means you can opt for a period when you feel mentally sharp and least stressed – this is usually the morning for most people.

Allow Yourself a Break: You know what’s on the LSAT – the LSAT is hard ! So, some students prefer to take a break after the grueling LSAT multiple-choice sections, allowing for some rest and mental recuperation before tackling the writing sample on another day. While we encourage you to complete the writing sample shortly after the multiple-choice sections, don’t be afraid to give yourself a break of a few hours or a day.

Consider Application Deadlines: You should be mindful of law school application deadlines. Ensure that you complete the writing sample with ample time for it to be processed and included in your LSAT report that's sent to law schools.

Technical Requirements: Before choosing when to take the writing sample, ensure you have a suitable device and a quiet environment that meets the technical requirements for the online writing portion.

In essence, the best time to write the LSAT writing sample largely depends on your individual preferences and circumstances. Whether you choose to complete it immediately after the LSAT or at a later date, ensure that you're in the right frame of mind and can dedicate focused energy to producing a well-constructed essay.

How to Ace the LSAT Writing Sample

LSAT writing sample may affect how long you study for the LSAT but do not be too afraid of this part of the test! There are some simple strategies you can implement in your LSAT study schedule to ace this part of the test. Here’s how to study for the LSAT writing sample and how to deliver a winning essay!

1. Review LSAT writing samples.

When you begin your LSAT prep, review LSAT writing sample examples. From these, you will learn how to effectively read and understand LSAT writing sample prompts. When you see a prompt, familiarize yourself with its structure. You'll typically be presented with a decision problem and given two criteria for making a choice. Your task is to choose one of the options and defend your choice using both criteria. Reflect on what arguments you would make, and which side would have stronger arguments. Remember, there is no “right” option. You will be evaluated on how well you can argue, not on which side of the argument you choose.

With that being said, avoid extreme positions. The scenarios are designed so that neither option is clearly right or wrong. Acknowledge the merits of both sides even as you argue for one. When we speak about structure of the essays, we will reveal how you can do this easily!

2. Learn how to structure LSAT writing samples.

When you start practicing, follow a clear essay structure. You should follow the academic essay structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

Introduction: State which side of the argument you choose. In other words, present your thesis.

Body: Begin with the strongest reasons for your choice, addressing both sides of the argument but explaining why you choose one over the other. Acknowledge the strengths of the other option but explain why your choice is superior. Lay out your arguments and explain why your decision is the preferrable option.

Conclusion: Summarize your argument briefly and restate your thesis.

3. Practice creating your own LSAT writing samples.

Practice writing your samples using the structure outlined above. First, you have to get the structure down, and only then you can start practice with timing. By the way, the LSAC provides actual writing sample questions from previous tests on their website. Practicing with these can give you a feel for the type of scenarios you might encounter.

4. Start timing yourself.

Once you get the structure of the LSAT writing sample down, you can start timing yourself. Ensure your essay is coherent and free of typos. While the writing sample isn't scored, law schools might use it to evaluate your writing competence. Make sure your essay is free of grammatical and stylistic errors.

Remember, it’s about quality, not quantity. Do not aim to write a lot, aim to write an essay that showcases your decision-making abilities in 35 minutes or less.

5. Get comfortable with the software.

You can familiarize yourself with the online software for the LSAT writing sample before you start the actual essay. LSAC provides a familiarization tool that allows you to experience the test-taking environment. However, while you can practice using the software, you can't pre-write or practice the essay within the official platform; you'll only be able to write and submit the essay once. Get comfortable with the software. Know how to input your essay, use the interface, and ensure you have a reliable internet connection.

LSAT Writing Sample 1

The town of Greenfield is deciding between two potential locations for a new public library: Location A, which is centrally located but has limited space for parking, or Location B, which is on the outskirts of town but has ample parking.

Writing Sample:

The optimal location for Greenfield's new public library is undoubtedly Location A, the central spot. Though parking may present certain challenges, its centralized location ensures accessibility and relevance, which are paramount for a public institution's success.

First and foremost, a library serves not just as a repository for books, but as a community hub. Positioning it in the heart of Greenfield ensures that it remains an integrated, vibrant part of daily life. Children can visit after school, professionals can drop by during their lunch breaks, and retirees can access it with ease, enriching their daily routines. In contrast, placing it on the outskirts would inadvertently make it an occasional destination, not an integral part of one's day.

Moreover, public transportation routes typically converge in or around central locations. This means that even if some residents opt not to drive due to limited parking, they would have reliable and frequent public transit options to access the library. Location B, being on the outskirts, might not be as well-connected, making it potentially challenging for those without personal vehicles to reach.

However, the concern about limited parking at Location A is valid. Yet, this can be addressed innovatively. The town could negotiate shared parking agreements with neighboring establishments, or even incentivize carpooling, biking, or walking to the library. Over time, with adequate planning, the parking constraints can be mitigated.

In conclusion, while both locations have their merits, the long-term success and relevance of the library are better ensured by opting for Location A. The new library should be easily accessible and central to the community's daily life, making the central location the most logical and beneficial choice for all of Greenfield's residents.

LSAT Writing Sample 2

Imagine you are a consultant for a leading tech company, NexTech. The company is faced with a decision between investing heavily in Virtual Reality (VR) technology or Augmented Reality (AR) technology over the next decade. Based on current market trends and future predictions, present an argument for one of these technologies.

In an era where technological immersion is becoming the cornerstone of digital experience, NexTech stands on the brink of a transformative decision: whether to pivot towards Virtual Reality (VR) or Augmented Reality (AR). Analyzing both current market trends and projected technological landscapes, investing in Augmented Reality (AR) emerges as the most promising and strategic decision.

At its core, AR offers something VR doesn't: a blend of real and virtual. This interlacing means AR has broader applications, reaching beyond entertainment. Today's consumers value seamless integration between their physical environment and digital enhancements. This is evident from the success of AR applications in areas such as retail, with "try-before-you-buy" experiences, and in healthcare with AR-assisted surgeries and diagnostics.

Furthermore, from a hardware perspective, VR often requires users to invest in sophisticated headsets and dedicated spaces to utilize the technology fully. In contrast, AR is far more accessible, with most modern smartphones capable of delivering high-quality AR experiences. This means that the initial consumer buy-in for AR is lower, allowing for a potentially broader user base.

Looking at future trends, as the Internet of Things (IoT) becomes ubiquitous, AR is poised to be the interface for IoT, overlaying digital information on real-world objects in real-time. While VR might create completely immersive environments, the future leans towards enhancing our current world with digital insights, rather than replacing it with a virtual one.

While VR undoubtedly holds potential, especially in sectors like gaming, entertainment, and specific professional training scenarios, AR's versatility and broad application give it the edge. NexTech, with its reputation for innovation, should lead the AR frontier, shaping everyday experiences by intertwining the digital and physical realms.

Imagine you are an ethics advisor for BioTech Labs, a cutting-edge biotechnology company. The company is at a crossroads, having to decide between investing resources in developing genetically modified crops that can end hunger in famine-prone regions or investing in medical research to cure genetic diseases. Advocate for one of these directions.

In the sprawling arena of biotechnological advancements, BioTech Labs stands at a monumental juncture: addressing the immediate crisis of global hunger through genetically modified crops or delving into the profound realm of medical miracles to cure genetic diseases. Evaluating both in terms of ethical impact and long-term societal benefits, the focus on developing genetically modified crops to alleviate hunger in famine-stricken areas seems to be the imperative course of action.

Hunger is not just an individual problem; it's a societal one. The repercussions of famine extend beyond malnutrition. It leads to socio-economic imbalances, heightens crime rates due to desperation, and can even catalyze political instability. By investing in genetically modified crops tailor-made for regions prone to famine, BioTech Labs would not only be providing sustenance but also sowing seeds of stability, prosperity, and peace.

Moreover, the technology for genetically modified crops has already seen substantial strides, indicating a shorter path to tangible results. These crops can be designed to be drought-resistant, pest-resistant, and yield a higher output, making them the perfect fit for regions where traditional agriculture fails time and again.

On the other hand, while curing genetic diseases holds undeniable value, it addresses a segment of the global population, whereas hunger is a widespread concern affecting millions. The immediacy of the hunger crisis, combined with the broader impact on communities, makes it a pressing concern.

In essence, by choosing to combat hunger through advanced agricultural biotechnology, BioTech Labs wouldn't just be feeding mouths but nourishing minds, bolstering economies, and fostering peace. In the grand tapestry of human challenges, addressing hunger paves the way for a healthier, more stable, and prosperous global community.

LSAT Writing Sample 4

You're a member of a city's cultural committee, tasked with recommending either the allocation of funds to restore a historic theater in the city center or to build a modern art museum. Advocate for one of these choices.

In the heart of our city lies the Grand Avenue Theater, a beacon of historic significance and collective memories. While the allure of creating a new space for art in the form of a modern museum is enticing, the restoration of the Grand Avenue Theater embodies more than just a renovation – it's a reconnection to our shared past and a preservation of cultural legacy.

Modern art museums, with their contemporary designs and potential for showcasing avant-garde pieces, are undeniably valuable. They represent the present and forecast the future. However, they lack the essence of history, the stories embedded in their very foundations, that the Grand Avenue Theater holds. Restoring the theater isn't merely about refurbishing a building; it's about bringing back to life the myriad moments of joy, sorrow, drama, and celebration that it has witnessed over the decades.

Moreover, revitalizing the theater could offer economic advantages. Its central location makes it a potential hotspot for tourism, enticing visitors eager to experience shows in a historic setting. This, in turn, could boost local businesses and create employment opportunities, from theater management to cafes that serve theatergoers.

Furthermore, restoring such a significant landmark reinforces the city's commitment to valuing its history, traditions, and the arts. The Grand Avenue Theater can serve dual purposes: a venue for performances, allowing artists to weave new tales on a historic stage, and an informal museum, where every brick and cornice tells a story.

In conclusion, while a modern art museum holds the promise of the future, the Grand Avenue Theater is a bridge connecting our city's rich past to its promising present. By restoring it, we're not just conserving a structure; we're preserving the soul of our city.

The LSAT writing sample is an unscored, 35-minute written essay section of the LSAT exam where test-takers are presented with a decision problem and must choose between two positions or courses of action, providing a reasoned argument for their choice. It offers law school admissions committees a direct sample of an applicant's writing skills and reasoning abilities.

While there's no strict word limit, most responses are between 300-500 words, so 1-2 pages long. Your LSAT writing sample should be as longs as necessary to present a clear and persuasive argument in response to the prompt, typically spanning a few well-organized paragraphs. 

You have 35 minutes to complete the LSAT writing sample. It's important to manage that time efficiently to outline, write, and review your response.

You can complete the LSAT writing sample online starting eight days prior to your LSAT test date. Ensure you have a quiet, suitable environment with a desktop or laptop computer that meets the technical requirements.

LSAT writing samples typically present a decision problem, asking the test-taker to choose between two options based on a set of criteria. The prompts often involve personal, business, or organizational decisions, requiring the applicant to make and defend a choice using sound reasoning and evidence from the provided information.

Your LSAT writing sample should begin with a clear thesis statement indicating your chosen decision, followed by a structured argument that addresses both the pros of your decision and the cons of the alternative – these will be the body paragraphs! Conclude by reinforcing your choice, summarizing the main points of your argument, and emphasizing its overall validity.

To practice for the LSAT writing sample, regularly attempt prompts under timed conditions to simulate the test environment, and afterward, critically review your responses for clarity, structure, and persuasiveness. Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or LSAT instructors to identify areas for improvement and refine your argumentative skills.

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PREP FOR SUCCESS

How to write a perfect LSAT essay

Updated: Feb 7

Suggested LSAT Study Plan

I suggest that you use this blog post as a study guide for the essay. Follow these steps below to learn how to write the best LSAT writing piece.

• Read the example prompt to understand how the prompts are typically structured
• Read the step-by-step-process about how to write the best essay and pick the format that you feel most comfortable with
• Write your own essay to practice
• Finally, read the sample prompts and the “what makes a great essay” section of this post to see how those essays compare to your essay and see if there is anything that you could add or change to your essay to make it better.

Example Prompt

Step 1: understand the pros & cons.

A perfect way to start your response is to make a table while reading the prompt. This will help you break down the prompt and see all the pros and cons for each side of the argument. By blatantly noting the pros and cons you will be able to have a better understanding of the argument and have a clear stances on your choice.

Step 2: Start Your Response 

First, you must devise a thesis statement. A thesis is a statement that notes your own opinion and your own stance on a certain subject matter. For example, in reference to the prompt above, a effective thesis statement could be: The Frye Street location is the better choice for the Baxters.

Step 3: Write Your Essay

Combine step 1 and 2 in order to write your essay. Step 2 should be your introduction to your essay which provides the reader with an understanding of your point of view and what you will be writing about. Then, use the pros and cons devised in step 1 to create your body paragraphs. Keep in mind your paragraphs do not need to be long. Most people can only fit about 250-300 words in the space allotted. You only have 35 minutes; therefore, your introduction paragraph can merely be your thesis statement and your body paragraphs can only be a few sentences. As long as you prove your point, it doesn’t matter the length of the essay. Additionally, there are two general formats in which you can write your essay.

• Paragraph 1: Argument : State your choice (thesis statement) and give the main reasons for it.
• Paragraph 2: Counterargument: Explain the main issues with the other choice.
• Paragraph 3: Conclusion: Conclude by restating your choice and the strongest reason for it.
• Issue: state the issue that you are being asked to analyze.
• Rule: state the rule (criterion)
• Application: apply the criterion to the facts presented in each alternative choice.
• Conclusion: conclude by explaining that the position you are arguing for is the better choice, given the facts provided.
• Paragraph 1: Introduction – Includes the Issue, Rule/Criterions, and Thesis Statement
• Paragraph 2: Argument – This paragraph states why your choice is the best choice. it includes the pros but also counteracts the cons.
• Paragraph 3: Counterargument – This paragraph states why the alternate choice is not good. Meaning, it states the cons, but also it tells why the pros are not as good as we think.
• Paragraph 4: Conclusion – This can be short and only a couple sentences, but it will recap the thesis

Example LSAT Essay

Sample Response 1 

(in favor of the Frye Street location)

The Frye Street location is the better choice for the Baxters. The time and cost of renovating the Frye shop would be minimal, since the store is already set up to accommodate a hair studio. Its close proximity would minimize the time and expense of moving as well as providing for uninterrupted business from current clients. A continued stream of business and a low initial rent would ensure short-term survival as well as making it financially feasible to expand to the adjacent space, thereby achieving long-term growth. Although the prior salon failure on Frye Street might suggest poor growth potential, that failure may have been due to other factors—such as mismanagement or a narrow male-only client base.

The mall space’s high-traffic location might seem to provide more long-term profit potential. However, the Baxters may face greater competition in the suburbs from franchise salons. More importantly, the Baxters’ primary concern should be with short-term survival, since otherwise they cannot achieve their longer-term profit goals. The additional expense of equipping a new retail space, along with a high initial rent, may jeopardize that survival, especially since it may take considerable time to develop a new clientele.

In sum, Frye is the better location; it would allow for a fast and inexpensive start-up and an uninterrupted flow of business, in turn ensuring both short-term survival and long-term success.

Sample Response 2 

(in favor of the Fashion Place Mall location)

What makes a great essay?

• Both essays effectively prove their thesis statement.
• Both essays include a counter argument. Meaning they explain the apparent strengths of the opposite argument, then quickly discuss their weaknesses.
• Both responses are clear, concise, and well-rounded.
• Both essays use effective language, syntax, and dictation.
• Both essays include transitional phrases and main shifts in the argument by using words like: “however”, “in sum”, “admittedly” and “in the final analysis”.

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Q&A: LSAT Writing Sample, What to Know

Don't stress about this unscored part of the LSAT, but take it seriously.

LSAT Writing Sample: What to Know

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To avoid raising eyebrows, treat the LSAT writing sample as a test of clear, logically organized writing. Write plainly with straightforward and succinct prose, rather than show off.

Welcome to the latest installment of Law Admissions Q&A, a feature that provides law school admissions advice to readers who send in inquiries. If you have a question about law school admissions, email us for a chance to be featured in a future post.

I am a prospective law school student. I have a very quick question. If I completed my LSAT writing section to the best of my ability, BUT I was not able to get the very last sentence on the page ... should I retake it? – DM

In short, no.

Perfectionism, like oversharing, tempts many aspiring lawyers to sabotage their law school applications .

It is true that law is a detail-oriented profession, and a misfortunate typo or formatting mistake can have outsize impact. But just because you need to scrutinize your own application does not mean that admissions officers are equally painstaking.

You should craft your law school application based on the assumption that the admissions officers who read it are well-intentioned professionals who are overworked and inattentive. They may have only a matter of minutes to review your application. They are likely to read everything, but they will not agonize over every ambiguity or omission.

To a speed-reading admissions officer, your LSAT writing sample is worth little more than a glance. It will go unnoticed unless it is so incoherent, inappropriate or incompetent that it casts doubt on your ability to handle law school . An abrupt ending is no cause for concern.

What Is the LSAT Writing Sample?

The LSAT writing sample is a mandatory 35-minute, digitally administered writing assessment. The prompt provided typically asks the writer to argue on behalf of one of two competing policy options, like whether a town should host an agricultural fair or a monster truck rally.

Applicants have a wide window of dates to complete the writing sample and need not take it concurrently with the test itself. This is a welcomed change from the way things worked previously. Before the launch of the digital LSAT last year, LSAT test-takers had to complete the writing sample just after taking the test, which was as fair as setting up a high jump competition just after the finish line of a triathlon.

The LSAT writing sample is ungraded but included in the report that law school admissions officers receive. In practice, the essay is of negligible importance. After all, your personal statement, recommendation letters, transcript and other materials reflect your writing abilities better than your ability to persuade readers of the economic benefits of monster truck rallies. Indeed, since the writing prompt provides arguments to draw upon, it is not a good assessment of research or creative thinking skills.

This does not mean, however, that the writing sample can be ignored. Admissions officers are likely to review it for a general sense of your ability to think and write under timed conditions. If your personal statement seems like it could have been written by Tom Wolfe, but your LSAT writing sample seems more as if an actual wolf took over the keyboard, it may raise a red flag.

If your essay does not end gracefully, or if its style sounds mechanical, or if the structure is a bit redundant, it will not raise a flag. On the other hand, even an elegant or sophisticated LSAT writing sample may not improve your odds of admission. So, just aim to do a solid job.

How to Handle the LSAT Writing Sample

Spend 10 minutes or so reviewing the prompt and organizing your argument. Choose a position and back it up with a few different points. In your first paragraph, introduce the issue and articulate a clear, decisive thesis. For example: The town should hold a monster truck rally rather than an agricultural fair.

In your second paragraph, lay out your arguments for your thesis. For example: A monster truck rally is more likely to bring visitors, will prove more educational to children and will advance the state of automotive research.

In the third paragraph, engage with counterarguments and explain why they should not outweigh your thesis. Acknowledge the benefits of agricultural fairs but show that they have too many drawbacks or too little benefit. For example: Animals are cute but make too much mess.

Finally, restate your thesis and, to avoid redundancy, perhaps add a qualification or a few questions for consideration. Perhaps combining both an agricultural fair with a monster truck rally would be a win-win solution. And if you don't manage to finish the last line, then...

Tags: LSAT , law school , graduate schools , education , students

About Law Admissions Lowdown

Law Admissions Lowdown provides advice to prospective students about the law school application process, LSAT prep and potential career paths. Previously authored by contributors from Stratus Admissions Counseling, the blog is currently authored by Gabriel Kuris, founder of Top Law Coach , an admissions consultancy. Kuris is a graduate of Harvard Law School and has helped hundreds of applicants navigate the law school application process since 2003. Got a question? Email [email protected] .

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The LSAT Writing Sample

Lsat writing sample outline.

The LSAT Writing section is a 35-minute assessment in which test-takers must compose a single essay on a provided topic. The Writing sample may currently be completed in either of two formats: digital (essays are typed into a computer word processor) or paper and pencil (essays are written by hand). The latter test format will soon be discontinued. LSAC began allowing students to use their own computers to take the Writing section remotely in 2019, and the Writing test is also available at official test centers. The LSAT Writing sample is separate component of the examination, and it may be completed anytime between the student's official test day and one year later. Writing samples are not scored by LSAC and do not contribute to the total LSAT score of 120–180.

LSAT Writing Sample Essay Task and Essay Prompts

LSAT essay prompts give students two distinct views on some issue. Students must write essays that advocate for one of these positions and explain why they have made their choice. Strong essays are typically well-structured, presenting clear viewpoints and arguing both for the chosen position and against the other option. Essay prompts are about 350 words long, and they have a consistent structure. First, a situation is briefly described in a short paragraph, and two accompanying conditions are then listed in bullet-point format. The two possible positions on the situation described are then presented as separate paragraphs. Official examples of essay topics published by LSAC include the merits of outsourcing versus using in-house workers at a media company, finding the best childcare option, and deciding which aspects of a business to spend limited funds on upgrading.

The LSAC Writing Sample and Score Reporting

At least one Writing sample is required to complete a Law School Report, and LSAC will not send incomplete reports to law schools. Most law schools require prospective students to apply via LSAC's Credential Assembly Service, which must include a complete Law School Report. This means that first-time LSAT test-takers cannot have any of their LSAT scores reported to institutions until they submit their Writing samples. LSAC specifies a three-week processing period for Writing samples, which law school applicants should keep in mind for application deadlines. Test-takers who have completed the Writing sample multiple times will have their three most recent essays sent to institutions. Students are allowed to later view their Writing samples, both immediately after the exam and after the essays have been appended to their Law School Reports.

The LSAT Writing Sample and Law School Admissions

Although the LSAT Writing sample is unscored by LSAC, law schools receive and review copies of student essays. LSAC surveys indicate that essays are important to law school admissions committees and helpful to the screening process. Many institutions explicitly list strong writing skills (as reflected in the LSAT Writing sample) among their admission requirements, and some schools have even created Writing sample scoring systems of their own. With the introduction of the digital LSAT in 2019, essays are now typed and therefore easier for admissions officers to read, making it much more likely that student Writing samples will receive close scrutiny. In sum, it is in all students' best interest to prepare adequately for the LSAT Writing assessment and to make every effort to write the best possible essay.

LSAT Writing Sample Test Security and Privacy for Remote Test-Takers

Students are allowed to use their own computers to complete the LSAT Writing sample remotely, but LSAC has implemented a number of security features. Student computers must be approved in advance, and they must be able to accommodate the proctoring technology. This technology allows proctors to see the student's computer screen, monitor the student himself or herself via the computer's webcam and microphone, and observe the student's written work through a secure word processor. All of these interactions are recorded and preserved, but these recordings are kept secure and will not be shared with third parties (LSAC records Writing assessments in case there is a need for later investigation). The proctoring technology automatically disables all other applications on student computers, and proctors remotely scan workspaces before the assessment to ensure that there are no other persons or materials present.

LSAT Writing Sample Fees

One LSAT Writing sample is included in the base exam registration fee, regardless of when the essay is written. Students may take the Writing test again without retaking the rest of the LSAT, and the fee for this service is $15 per administration.

How to Write LSAT Essay: With Real-Life Examples

No matter if you’re just writing your first words or trying to turn your ideas into a case that a lawyer would accept, knowing how to write an LSAT essay, is the most important thing you can do.

Let’s figure out how to write a good LSAT essay, with examples to bring those ideas to life.

The Inside Scoop on LSAT Essay Mastery

When you’re gearing up for the LSAT, understanding the nuts of the essay component is like finding a treasure map: it can lead you to law school gold! This isn’t your average college essay; the LSAT demands more than fancy words or flamboyant grammar. It’s your chance to flaunt those critical thinking and decision-making skills, all wrapped up in a neat, persuasive package.

If the phrase how to write an LSAT explanation essay sends your heart racing, take a deep breath. It’s all about presenting a well-reasoned argument for a decision backed by evidence and structured logically. Easy, right? Well, it can be with the right prep!

But hey, no one’s saying you have to go it alone. There’s a whole army of resources at your disposal. Law school admssion consulting firms are like the Gandalf to your Frodo , offering wisdom and guidance for your epic journey. They can provide tailored advice to make your essay a shining star in your application.

And for that extra edge, the best LSAT tutoring providers are just a click away . They’re the Yoda to your Luke Skywalker, helping hone your essay-writing lightsaber to battle the LSAT dark side. With these allies in your corner, you’re not just writing an essay but crafting the Excalibur of applications!

What Does the LSAT Essay Evaluate?

So, you’re facing the LSAT essay, a beast of a test more enigmatic than a Rubik’s cube. What exactly is it probing for? Put simply, it’s all about your argumentative finesse. This section throws you a scenario and asks you to advocate for one standpoint over another. The catch? There’s no clear winner. It’s a test of judgment, not factual recall.

The question buzzing in your mind might be how to write an essay for the LSAT. Don’t fret; it’s about harnessing your inner lawyer. You’re not just picking a side but defending it with every ounce of logic and persuasion. Your prowess in presenting a robust argument, reasoning clarity, and ability to communicate effectively underpin how to write a good LSAT essay.

But where do you get the prep ammo for this? LSAT podcasts on YouTube are like hidden gems . They offer priceless insights and tips from those who’ve wrestled with the beast you’re facing.

Remember, the LSAT essay is your stage. It’s where you showcase your ability to dissect complex issues, take a stance, and defend it with vigor.

And for a holistic approach, take a look into popular LSAT majors . These fields of study are the forges where argumentative swords are tempered, sharpening your critical thinking and analytical skills.

Decoding the Numbers: How Your LSAT Essay is Evaluated

Let’s clear the fog on one of the most mystifying aspects of the LSAT journey: the scoring system of the essay section. First, it’s vital to note that writing the LSAT essay doesn’t contribute to your overall score of 180. Yes, you read that right! But hold those celebration dances; this doesn’t give you a free pass to neglect it.

Though not numerically scored, your essay is a critical puzzle piece. It’s shipped directly to the law schools you apply to to demonstrate your argumentative capabilities. Admissions committees eyeball this section to gauge your potential as a budding lawyer. They’re scouting for clear, logical reasoning, effective argumentation, and organizational skills that scream “courtroom-ready.”

Wondering how to make your essay resonate with these legal eagles? Resources like college admission consultants reviews on our blog can point you towards the pros who know exactly what law schools want. They’re like the cartographers of the LSAT world, mapping out the route to a standout submission.

While your essay doesn’t tally up points in your LSAT score, it’s a pivotal player in the admissions game. It’s your audition tape, portfolio, and voice – make it compelling!

Need more hands-on guidance? The best in-person LSAT prep class can be a game-changer . Think of it as a training ground where you get to spar with the LSAT essay, sharpening your writing sword under the watchful eyes of seasoned mentors.

Crafting an A+ LSAT Essay: Your 5-Step Battle Plan

The LSAT essay journey feels like standing at the base of Mount Everest, doesn’t it? It’s time to strap on your climbing gear and tackle this challenge head-on!

We’re breaking down the ascent into a 5-step expedition designed to plant your flag of success at the summit. Each phase is a mission-critical move to construct an essay that doesn’t just talk the talk but walks the walk.

Step 1: Analyze the Terrain

Before you pen that first word, take a moment. Breathe. Then, dive deep into the prompt. This isn’t just skimming the surface; it’s about understanding every nuance of the scenario you’re given. Identify the decision points and weigh them.

What are the stakes? What are the pros and cons? Your essay’s foundation lies in how well you grasp the prompt.

Step 2: Pick Your Path…Wisely

This stage is your strategic crossroads. You’ve got two options, but the choice isn’t right or wrong; it’s about which position you can argue most effectively. Consider the evidence, the strengths, and potential weaknesses of each side.

Need a compass for decision-making? LSAT prep books for beginners can offer invaluable guidance , helping you understand the criteria for strong arguments. Your choice here sets the tone for your essay, so weigh your options carefully! It’s a calculated decision on the chessboard of your LSAT.

Step 3: Map Out Your Journey

Now, plot your course. You wouldn’t venture into the wilderness without a map, right? Similarly, an outline is your GPS through the LSAT essay terrain. Jot down your main arguments, examples, and evidence. This blueprint ensures you stay on track, your ideas flow logically, and you effectively support your stance.

Struggling to connect the dots between ideas? An LSAT reading comprehension book is a goldmine for understanding how arguments are structured and presented cohesively. With a solid plan, you’re not just wandering through words but on the highway to a compelling, organized essay.

Step 4: Embark with Gusto

Craft your essay with conviction, ensuring each sentence fortifies your argument. Use clear, persuasive language, and don’t wander off into the forest of off-topic musings. You can find LSAT writing tutors online to bolster your writing prowess . They’re like the seasoned trail guides who can help navigate tricky paths and ensure your argument is robust and convincing.

Remember, this is your narrative journey – infuse it with your passion, precision, and personality. Write with gusto, and let your argument shine!

Step 5: Polish Till It Shines

Did you cross the finish line with your first draft? High-five! But don’t park the car just yet. It’s time to revamp your engine. Review your essay with a fine-tooth comb, hunting for any hiccups in logic or pesky typos that crawled in.

Wondering if your arguments are solid enough? LSAT practice tests can provide benchmarks for comparison, highlighting areas ripe for refinement. This stage is about perfecting your masterpiece, buffing it until it’s gleaming with clarity, coherence, and undeniable persuasion. Polish that essay until it’s blindingly brilliant!

LSAT Essay Samples: Two Stellar Examples to Guide Your Way

Sometimes, getting through the LSAT essay part feels like figuring out what an abstract piece of art means. Don’t worry, though; samples are here to save the day! They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but it’s also a smart strategy in the LSAT world. These examples epitomize what it means to nail this part of the test.

Sample 1: The Cost-Benefit Conundrum

Prompt: A small town’s council is deliberating whether to invest in renovating a historic community library or constructing a new skate park. Both projects have significant community support, but budget constraints necessitate a choice.

Essay Excerpt:

“The town’s historic library stands not just as a vault of books but as a cornerstone of communal heritage and learning. While a skate park offers immediate appeal to the town’s youth, refurbishing the library is an investment in the town’s intellectual heartbeat. This isn’t merely a financial decision; it’s a choice between transient thrill and lasting enlightenment…”

Sample 2: The Eco-Friendly Initiative

Prompt: A company must choose between investing in solar panels for their new headquarters or implementing a company-wide recycling program. Both have environmental benefits but differ in cost, impact, and employee involvement.

“Opting for solar panels, the company doesn’t just cut down on energy costs; it loudly advocates for renewable energy. Yes, recycling is commendable, but solar panels are a bold statement, a public display of environmental stewardship. This initiative transcends immediate monetary gain, spotlighting the company’s commitment to a greener tomorrow…”

Wondering how to craft essays like these? Understanding how to write LSAT explanation essay starts with grasping the argument’s mechanics, the balance between emotion and logic. But mastering this art form isn’t a solo journey.

Do LSAT prep classes help? Unquestionably , this is especially important when it comes to coherence in the organization of your ideas. These classes, alongside the best free prep for LSAT , provide frameworks that support your essay.

These samples are more than just responses; they’re a study in strategy, structure, and style. Use them as models for your strategy, and remember, the LSAT essay is your podium. Speak from it with logic, passion, and precision!

Supercharging Your Argumentation Skills

In the gladiatorial arena of LSAT essay writing, wielding your reasoning like a well-honed sword is crucial. You’re not just throwing words onto paper but engaging in a sophisticated intellectual duel. Your weapon? Razor-sharp logical reasoning. But even the most astute minds need a bit of sharpening. That’s where resources sprint to your side, ready to turn your natural talents into formidable skills.

This might sound like a Herculean task reserved for the hyper-intelligent. But hold your horses! It’s accessible to anyone with the right tools. One of the most effective? The best logical reasoning books for LSAT are like the whetstones for your intellect. They don’t just provide you with strategies; they challenge you with real-world scenarios, honing your argumentation skills and refining your reasoning abilities.

These guides help you dissect arguments, understand logical fallacies, and, most importantly, construct airtight arguments of your own. They’re not just teaching you but immersing you in high-stakes decision-making and critical analysis.

Thus, consider investing in these logical reasoning power-ups. They’re not just books; they’re your secret weapon in the battle of wits that lies ahead on the LSAT.

How do you start an essay for the LSAT?

Kick-off with a clear thesis statement in your introductory paragraph. This is your stance on the prompt’s issue. Make it bold, clear, and sure it’s something you can back up with solid reasoning.

How to write the LSAT writing sample?

Outline your argument, present both sides of the scenario, and justify your decision clearly. Support your stance with logical reasoning and specific examples. Remember, clarity and structure are your best friends here.

Is the LSAT writing hard?

It’s challenging but not impossible. The LSAT writing section tests your critical thinking and persuasive writing skills. With practice, a clear strategy, and a calm mind, you can master it. Preparation is key!

How long should my LSAT writing sample be?

Aim for a goldilocks length: not too long, not too short. Generally, a well-articulated response is about 500-800 words. It’s about quality over quantity, so make every word count and every argument hit home!

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What To Expect on The LSAT Writing Section

By Mehran Ebadolahi Mehran Ebadolahi -->

The LSAT Writing sample is the last item you will complete before submitting your exam. You will likely be mentally exhausted from the stress and effort of completing the other five sections which are challenging and rigidly timed. Despite your exhaustion, powering through this last section to ensure you turn in a strong sample can only help you become a strong candidate for the law schools you're applying to.

In this guide, we'll talk a bit about what to expect on the LSAT writing section and what law schools want to see . Then, we'll show you how to prepare for the writing section , and give you a four-step process for writing a strong essay on test day.

What to Expect on the LSAT Writing Section

You will be given a detailed prompt that lays out a scenario or problem. The prompt will feature two options or solutions to choose from. There is no right answer. You simply choose the option you think best fits the scenario provided.

You can't argue for both or neither. You have to pick a side.

You will then have 35 minutes to craft a persuasive essay in which you argue why the option you chose is the best choice. Your arguments should be based solely on details provided in the prompt. Don't make assumptions and don't use outside examples.

There are no length requirements.

While it is mandatory to complete this section, it is not scored by LSAC. They simply send it to the law schools you listed along with your LSAT scores.

You can find more information about the writing section on the LSAC website .

What Law Schools Expect from Your Writing Sample

As you prepare for this section, you're going to hear some conflicting reports. Some will say the writing section isn't that important. Admissions officers care much more about your personal statement or statement of purpose as a writing sample than your LSAT essay.

This is reasonable. That personal statement shows what you're capable of when given adequate time and resources to craft something really meaningful.

However, other admissions officers argue that the LSAT essay is very important. Your statement of purpose is what you can do when you're not in a rush, when you have friends and family who can edit and provide feedback; in short, when you have time.

The LSAT essay shows how coherent you can be when you're under pressure and have only your own mind to work with. It's a better measure of raw writing talent as well as your own logic and argument skills.

To succeed in law school, you need to be prepared to write lots of essays, including some timed essay exams. For a career in law, your ability to be organized, coherent, and convincing even when you're speaking off the cuff is an important skill.

This LSAT essay is one way to demonstrate that you're capable of successfully completing law school and successfully navigating a career in law.

In the end, you shouldn't worry whether the admissions officers at the schools you're applying to care about the LSAT writing sample. You have to complete it one way or the other so you might as well give it your best effort. After all, this could end up being the item that tips the scale in your favor between you and a similarly strong competitor.

What Makes a Strong LSAT Writing Sample?

This is a spontaneous essay. That means you did not have the resources to do research or thoroughly prepare a perfect essay. It also means you had little to know time to edit or even reread the essay before submitting. The admissions board is not going to be looking for top quality or anything close to perfection.

They are going to be look for evidence of your raw talent. They want to see evidence that you have some fundamental abilities to organize and express a coherent chain of thoughts in written form.

The most important qualities your essay should have include:

• Clear, grammatically correct writing
• Logical, organized structure, including paragraphs that are focused on single, relevant topics
• Arguments that are grounded fully in evidence, not on personal opinions or assumptions
• Clear thesis statement
• Logical conclusion

How to Prepare for the LSAT Writing Sample

Even if you understand the importance of taking some time to practice for the LSAT writing section, it can be hard to know where or how to start. In this section, we'll give you a few tips to make sure you're ready for the writing sample come test day.

Set Your Study Schedule

Because this is an unscored section, it can be hard to justify taking precious study hours away from the scored sections of the LSAT to practice writing short essays. While it shouldn't be the main focus of your study time, devoting an hour or so a week to this will pay off.

Use the 5% rule. If your current LSAT study schedule is 20 hours a week, spend maybe one hour of that time on the writing section. If you're only studying 10 hours a week, spend about half an hour on writing.

Since the section is only 35 minutes, this 5% rule gives you time to practice 1-2 essays each week. That's enough to make sure you have a good rhythm established and you've solidified your approach to organizing your thoughts and managing your time. But it still leaves the majority of your time to study for the scored sections.

Practice Essay Construction

Writing this essay isn't like the normal essay writing process. You won't have any time or resources for research or editing. When you practice writing essays, mimic these conditions as much as possible. Don't rely on outside research. Don't write as if you have all the time in the world to edit and review.

Use only the writing prompt material and make sure you spend enough time clearly defining the requirements and planning out the structure of your essay. Use the following process to craft an essay.

• Read the prompt and create an outline of the requirements and the details. This should include what the problem or scenario is, what your two options are, and what the details of each option are.
• Create an outline. Your outline should include your introduction paragraph, at least three body paragraphs, and your conclusion paragraph. The introduction paragraph should include a clear thesis statement. Each paragraph should have a clear main topic with 2-3 supporting details or examples. The conclusion should simply summarize the argument you made in the essay.
• Write your essay. Take it one paragraph at a time. Refer to your outline to make sure each paragraph stays on topic and follows logically from the one before it. Also make sure you aren't including any of your own assumptions or opinions not grounded in specific details from the prompt.
• Edit your essay. Take a few minutes to read through your essay and correct spelling, grammar, and sentence structure.
• Critique your essay. Since this is a practice essay, read through it as if you were an admissions officer. How clear is the thesis statement? Do the body paragraphs really help support the thesis? Are all of the details and examples from the prompt? Do the arguments make sense?

For your first couple practice essays, time yourself but don't cut yourself at 35 minutes. Take the time you need to complete the process fully. Just use the timer to get a base measure of how long it currently takes you to finish an essay.

After those first couple sessions, work on completing the process a little faster each time until you get it down below 35 minutes.

Once you've successfully completed a practice essay that you're proud of in under 35 minutes, you're ready for the test! You don't need to continue practicing after this unless you feel like you'd benefit from a couple more sessions.

Find Writing Prompts

In your LSAT study guides, you will find some example prompts that you can use to practice writing your LSAT writing sample. If you run out of sample prompts, you can give yourself prompts based on other material.

For example, you might look at the business or politics section of a news site. Find an article discussing a policy debate in congress, a potential business merger, or a similar issue that has multiple sides. Based solely on the information provided in the article, identify two potential options, pick a side, and write a persuasive essay defending your decision.

Say you find an article about your local city council deciding whether to fund the construction of a new elementary school by either raising property taxes on residents or pulling funding from the parks department. Choose which option you prefer and write an essay explaining why, using evidence pulled only from that article.

If you find an article about a company that's deciding between either developing its own new product or buying out its competitor, decide which of those options you would choose as CEO of that company and write an essay about it.

Plan Your Test Day LSAT Writing Schedule

To create a strong LSAT writing sample in just 35 minutes, time management is key. If you spent enough time practicing the skills, you should be able to do all the necessary planning and execution within that time frame. Here's a sample of what your test day schedule might look like:

• 3 minutes: Read the prompt and breakdown the topic.
• 7 minutes: Write out a paragraph by paragraph outline
• 20 minutes: Write your essay. Referring to the outline to create each paragraph.
• 5 minutes: Quickly read through the essay to clean out any glaring errors or mistakes.

You can alter the timing based on the results of your practice writing. For example, if you find that you need less time for outlining but more time for editing, adjust to reflect those needs. If you tend to edit as you go and would rather use more time to write and then just do a quick final read-through, go for it.

4 Step LSAT Writing Process

Let's take a look at that schedule in action. For this sample, we'll use the prompt example provided on the LSAC website.

In the prompt, you are asked to use the details provided to choose either a "national plan" or the "regional plan" proposed to help a fictional company meet two goals: increase profits and ensure long-term financial stability.

Here's how the process might look:

Step 1: Read and breakdown the prompt (3 minutes)

The breakdown of the prompt might look like this:

• Increase company profits
• Ensure long-term financial stability
• Only well-known in home region
• Has a strong positive reputation among those who know it
• Facing increasing competition in home region
• Has strong customer loyalty
• The plan: open multiple men's clothing stores nationwide
• Ability to offer lower prices due to savings from buying at scale
• Would improve company's ability to compete with the national chains that are moving into its home region
• Dramatic increase in profits, if successful
• Requires taking on a lot of debt
• Require spending a lot on additional staff, marketing, and distribution
• High risk of failure and expensive if it does fail
• The plan: Increase number and size of stores in current region and upgrade service and product quality
• No need to take on new debt
• No need to hire lots of new staff or investing more in marketing and distribution
• Ability to charge higher prices for higher quality
• A test run of this plan in one store showed increased sales and profits
• High population growth in current region means growing customer base
• Doesn't address price competition from the competitor chains in their region
• Limited growth potential since the company isn't expand into new regions

Every single bullet point above was stated in the prompt. No outside information or assumptions were made. Your breakdown of the prompt should be an outline of the facts that were presented to you, free of personal opinion.

You'll use this as a reference when creating your outline to make sure your supporting arguments are directly founded on details in the prompt. Creating this breakdown will help cut down the time you spend referring to the prompt for details.

Step 2: Write your outline (7 minutes)

From the above, we can see that the choice is between the high risk, high reward national plan or the low risk, low reward regional plan. For the sake of the essay, let's go for the high risk, high reward option. Now, let's outline our argument:

• 2-3 sentences describing the issue stated in the prompt and the company's current position.
• Thesis: The national plan is the most suitable choice to meet both of the company's stated goals of increasing profits and ensuring long-term financial stability.
• National plan allows company to maintain prices that are the same or lower than their competitors
• Increases the number of potential customers
• Potential to decrease per unit cost by buying at a larger scale will also increase profit margin
• Company will be better protected from regional market fluctuations (e.g.- local recessions)
• Opportunity to expand into regions with lower competition will hedge against potential profit loss from the high competition in current region
• Positive local reputation suggests their business model is already strong
• Existing customer loyalty will provide stability while they get established in new regions
• The national plan may come with higher risk and higher costs but the company is currently in a strong position and this plan better satisfies both of the company's stated goals.

As you can see, the introduction simply restates the prompt in a couple sentences and then briefly states your response to the prompt.

Then, each paragraph focuses on one specific argument that supports your thesis. The arguments were each pulled from the prompt. You're not using any outside information or examples to support your thesis. You're just using what you know from the details provided in the prompt.

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.

If you have clear ideas for 4-5 supporting paragraphs, and each one directly relates to the prompt, go for it. However, any more than that, your essay will likely be too long to finish in time.

Finally, the conclusion summarizes the key points you discussed in the essay and restates your original thesis that the national plan is the preferred choice.

Step 3: Write your essay (20 minutes)

With an outline like the one above, your essay is already mostly written. For this step, focus on one paragraph at a time, turning each bullet point into a complete thought in 1-2 sentences. Make sure to include smooth transitions between each paragraph.

Don't concern yourself too much with language. Focus on getting your point across and packing in evidence to support your claims. You don't need to use the most advanced or academic sounding words you can think of. You just need to be convincing.

Often, the most convincing arguments are the ones that are most clearly and concisely stated. So, skip the thesaurus and just write naturally, using grammatically correct sentences.

Step 4: Edit your essay (5 minutes)

After you've fleshed out your outline into a full essay, use any remaining time on the clock to read through it and fix any major errors. Don't read too closely or get too finicky about perfecting the word choice.

Instead, just skim through it looking for obvious spelling errors and grammar mistakes or sentences that just don't make any sense.

If you end up finishing all four steps in less than 35 minutes, don't turn it in early. Just use the extra time to do a closer edit. While the admissions officers won't be looking for polished perfection, it won't hurt to get as close to polished as you can.

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LSAT Writing: Does It Matter to Law Schools?

LSAT Writing is a 35-minute ungraded essay with an assigned topic. 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.

Overview of LSAT Writing

LSAT Writing is an on-demand writing assessment that is proctored and administered online. To ensure a secure testing environment, candidates are required to install proctoring software on their personal computers. This approach has several key features:

• It reduces the overall duration of the LSAT test day.
• It provides candidates with increased flexibility, allowing them to complete the writing portion at a location and time of their choosing.
• LSAT Writing becomes available eight (8) days prior to each test administration.

Every LSAT Writing prompt instructs you to make a decision and develop an argument about it. You are asked to make a choice between two positions or courses of action. Both of the choices are defensible, and you are given criteria and facts on which to base your decision. There is no “right” or “wrong” position to take on the topic, so the quality of your response is a function of how well your choice is supported and other choice is criticized.

How will the essay affect my LSAT score ?

It doesn't. Yes, you read that right; you have to spend 35 minutes composing an essay that has no effect on your overall score. The essay itself isn't even scored separately. Only three sections of the LSAT contribute to your score: one segment for Reading Comprehension, another for Analytical Reasoning, and a third for Logical Reasoning. Note: beginning August 2024, the Analytical Reasoning (“Logic Games”) section of the test will be eliminated. The LSAT will then consist of two Logical Reasoning (“Arguments”) sections, one Reading Comprehension section, and one unscored section.

Is LSAT Writing used in law school admissions?

Not really. There's a chance that your LSAT essay just may go totally unread. LSAT writing samples are rarely used to evaluate law school candidates, so no matter how well or poorly you did, this exercise will most likely not affect your admissions chances. Note: It's important to be aware that in order to access your LSAT scores or have them sent to schools, you must have a completed writing sample on file.

Read More: When Should You Take the LSAT?

Do I need to prepare for LSAT Writing?

You won't want to totally blow it off since LSAT Writing is quite easy to master. There's always the chance that a law school admissions counselor will read it, so it doesn't hurt to put some effort into it. By the same token, by no means should you sacrifice study time from other LSAT sections  to work on LSAT Writing. So unless you're scoring in the 99th percentile, 99% of your study time should be spent mastering the sections that contribute to your score. However you like to study, we have the right LSAT prep plan for you .

What are law schools looking for in the LSAT essay?

When you are writing an essay for any type of standardized test, don't ever get it confused with writing a paper for an English class: They are not even on the same playing field. And even though they may not admit it, standardized test makers want only one thing: gaudy excess. They appreciate quantity more than quality, so keep it long. They also seem to enjoy paragraphs, so any crazy thoughts of condensing language into more efficient prose should disappear. And finally, they have developed a Pavlovian response to big, pretentious words. So when they come across a world like "Pavlovian," expect sheer enthusiasm.

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The Only 3 LSAT Writing Sample Tips You’ll Ever Need

I know the writing section isn’t scored and I’ve heard it doesn’t matter all that much, but I was wanting to get some overall suggestions on how to do it the way admissions people like. I’m taking the upcoming test and I haven’t given much thought to the writing portion. I’m confident in my writing skills so I would just appreciate any general advice. Thanks!

Thanks for the question! I think the best way to answer is to start by taking a look at a real writing sample prompt from a real previous LSAT. Here’s an example of a pretty typical writing sample (excerpted from the June 2007 LSAT ):

June 2007 Writing Sample Directions & Prompt

Directions: The scenario presented below describes two choices, either one of which can be supported on the basis of the information given. Your essay should consider both choices and argue for one over the other, based on the two specified criteria and the facts provided. There is no “right” or “wrong” choice: a reasonable argument can be made for either.

BLZ Stores, an established men’s clothing retailer with a chain of stores in a major metropolitan area, is selecting a plan for expansion. Using the facts below, write an essay in which you argue for one of the following plans over the other based on the following two criteria: • The company wants to increase its profits. • The company wants to ensure its long-term financial stability. The “national plan” is to open a large number of men’s clothing stores throughout the country over a short period of time. In doing this, the company would incur considerable debt. It would also have to greatly increase staff and develop national marketing and distribution capabilities. Many regional companies that adopted this strategy increased their profits dramatically. A greater number tried and failed, suffering severe financial consequences. BLZ is not well known outside its home area. Research indicates that the BLZ name is viewed positively by those who know it. National clothing chains can offer lower prices because of their greater buying power. BLZ currently faces increasingly heavy competition in its home region from such chains. The “regional plan” is to increase the number and size of stores in the company’s home region and upgrade their facilities, product quality, and service. This could be achieved for the most part with existing cash reserves. These upgrades would generally increase the prices that BLZ charges. In one trial store in which such changes were implemented, sales and profits have increased. The local population is growing. BLZ enjoys strong customer loyalty. Regional expansion could be accomplished primarily using BLZ’s experienced and loyal staff and would allow continued reliance on known and trusted suppliers, contractors, and other business connections.

So first off, I’ll tell you what I tell everyone about the writing sample: Don’t worry about it too much. As long as you take it seriously, give it your best effort, and demonstrate that you are capable of writing, in English, in a coherent manner, then the writing section of the LSAT is highly unlikely to help (or hurt) your application.

If in fact, someone actually reads your LSAT writing sample when reviewing your application, then they’re probably going to recognize that they are reading an ungraded essay that you wrote after an intense 3-hour period in which you took perhaps the most important exam of your life… and they’re probably going to read it (if at all) in light of that fact. I doubt that anyone has gone in there and written an exceptionally brilliant treatise so moving that it swayed an admissions decision.

On the other hand, if you blow it off entirely, or blatantly ignore the stimulus and write a diatribe against standardized testing, or something silly like that, well, that’s sort of thing might make an admissions committee question your character.

Ok, now having said that… here are a few tips on how to write a passable essay

Remember that “there is no “right” or “wrong” choice: a reasonable argument can be made for either.”

Don’t waste much time worrying about which side you argue for. The issue is designed in such a way that a reasonable argument can be made for either side. Read the prompt & pick whichever side you initially lean toward. Then focus on developing as strong an argument as possible for that side.

Be sure to follow the ‘rules’ given & stay on topic

Keep your argument on-topic! In the example above, we’re asked to argue for either the “ national ” or “ regional ” plan on the basis of two criteria: the company wants to  increase its profits  &  ensure its long-term financial stability . Stick to that task.

In reality, there are probably a million different paths that the company could take aside from the “ national”  and  “regional”  plans.

For example: don’t come up with and argue for an alternative  “acquisition”  plan in which the company buys other strong regional players, even if you think that is ultimately the best real-world answer. That’s not what the question asks of you. You’re asked to argue for the  “national”  plan OR the  “regional”  plan .   Do just that. S tick to the script.

In reality, there are also probably a million different criteria that the company could take into consideration aside from  “increase profits”  and  “ensure long-term financial stability.” 

For example: don’t come up with and develop an argument around an alternative  “environmental impact”  criteria that the company should take into consideration when making its decision. Even if you believe that is ultimately an important real-world consideration. That’s not what the question asks of you. You’re asked to weigh the given plans on the basis of the given criteria.  Do just that. Stick to the Script.

Consider organizing your response using a modified version of the “IRAC” methodology.

“ IRAC  (pronounced EYE-rack) is an acronym that stands for  Issue ,  Rule ,  Application , and  Conclusion . It functions as a methodology for legal analysis. The IRAC format is mostly used in hypothetical questions in law school and bar exams.” ( thanks, Wikipedia! )

Using IRAC is by no means required, so if you don’t find this tip useful, feel free to ignore it and write an otherwise well-organized essay. But you’re frequently going to be asked to argue using the IRAC method in law school… so using this general framework is a simple way to write a well-organized essay that will be familiar to anyone reviewing your law school application.

I ssue: state the issue that you are being asked to analyze.

R ule: state the rule (criterion)

A pplication: apply the criterion to the facts presented in each alternative choice

C onclusion: conclude that the position you’re arguing for is the better choice, given how the stated criterion apply to the facts.

University of Chicago, J.D., 2012 -- CLICK HERE to find out how I got a 177 on the LSAT . Ready to Kickstart your LSAT Prep? Join the LSAT Mastermind Study Group

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First, thank you for all the great resources.

I am interested in joining the your Mastermind course, but I’m just at the very beginning of my study process (I’ve ordered books and looked through lots of online resources). Would you suggest starting the course now, or once I’ve gotten a better feel for each section of the test? I want to get the most out of it. Thank you again!

Best, Jackie

Hi Jackie –

It’s great to join at the beginning of your studies as you get access to all of the study schedules with the membership. Plus it is a lifetime membership, so you never have to pay for more time to stay active in the group. You can really join at any stage of prep. Some people join right before their test for the extra push, some have been active for over a year as they prepare. I joined at the beginning and found it extremely helpful.

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What Law Schools Look For in Your LSAT Writing Sample

• by M Hope Echales
• Sep 05, 2019
• Admissions, LSAT
• Reviewed by: Matt Riley

Because, in all honesty, it doesn’t matter very much.

The writing sample on the LSAT always evokes a feeling of dread from first-time LSAT test-takers. You’ve sat in a room for over three hours, nerves shot and caffeine headache pounding, with dozens of other students, many of whom haven’t showered in the past few days in order to maximize their study time. The last thing anyone wants to do is write an essay.

Well, not exactly true. The last thing anyone wants to do is read hundreds of essays written by others in these conditions.Not even LSAC, since they’ve now made the writing sample take home .

The people evaluating your law school applications know the testing conditions under which you take the exam. They know the writing sample comes last. And they know they have hundreds of these essays through which they can read.

For the most part, they don’t.

Sure, there might be a quick glance to make sure you can write intelligibly. But they’re not expecting something that would wow the Supreme Court.

“But Matt!” You lament. “Isn’t the writing sample closest to what you’ll be doing in law school?”

Yes, in a technical sense. No, in reality.

Law schools mandate a first-year legal research and writing class for a reason: none of you write like a lawyer. They assume you’re coming to law school with terrible writing skills and poor argumentative habits. They’ll train you to do better.

So they expect these essays to be substandard.

Focus on spelling things correctly. Put commas where they should go. Don’t try to use a semicolon if it’s not a regular part of your repertoire. And don’t drool on the page. Get those down, and you should be just fine.

More importantly, the LSAT writing sample is unscored; as in, it won’t affect your score at all! But this doesn’t mean you can skip it; if you leave it blank, they won’t even glance at your test.

The good news is that the writing sample is pretty easy. Basically, you get a situation where you argue for one of two courses of action while trying to satisfy two criteria. There is no “right choice.” As lawyers, you’ll be constantly arguing for things about which you are unsure, with insufficient information, so this is a little taste of things to come. For example, you might get something like this:

The freeways of Los Angeles have become far too crowded, and the city government has decided to do something about it this year. This will be accomplished by one of two possible means – either by widening and expanding the highway system, or by forcibly executing half the population. Using the facts below, write an essay in which you argue for one option over the other based on the following two criteria:

• The city government wants to clear up traffic as soon as possible for as little money as possible • The city government wants to keep as many of its constituents alive as possible

One option is to widen and expand the freeway system. This could potentially take many years and cost a lot of money. However, very few people would die in the process.

Alternatively, the city could kill half of its residents. This would be cheap, and after the bodies were disposed of, traffic would immediately be thinned out.

Again, there is no right or wrong choice. So first you pick a side. Don’t make up your own third option, and don’t try to somehow combine the two. Doing that doesn’t show that you’re creative and innovative. It shows that you’re an idiot who doesn’t know how to follow instructions. Also, don’t bring in your own criteria of what’s important. The only weights that matter are the two bulleted goals.

So let’s say you choose the mass killing option. What you want to do is play up the pros of your side (cheap and quick) and the cons of the other side (takes a long time and expensive). But you also need to concede your weaknesses (lots of people die) and the other side’s advantages (few people die), but just downplay them. Really, that’s it. You get 35 minutes to do it, but even if you outline and plan the whole thing out first (which you should), you’ll still probably find you have more than enough time. You shouldn’t feel like it has to be amazing prose. Nobody really writes an amazing essay; it’s adequate or it’s not.

So take a look at a few writing samples to get a feel for what they look like, and do a few as practice, but that’s all you need. Pretty much everyone does fine, and it really is pretty unimportant – virtually everything else in your application carries far more weight. So go back to studying for the rest of the test, that’s what will make the difference.

An earlier version of this article was published September 24, 2013. 

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Writing Sample

Lsat writing prompt - june 2007 lsat.

BLZ Stores, an established men’s clothing retailer with a chain of stores in a major metropolitan area, is selecting a plan for expansion. Using the facts below, write an essay in which you argue for one of the following plans over the other based on the following two criteria:

• The company wants to increase its profits.
• The company wants to ensure its long-term financial stability.

The “national plan” is to open a large number of men’s clothing stores throughout the country over a short period of time. In doing this, the company would incur considerable debt. It would also have to greatly increase staff and develop national marketing and distribution capabilities. Many regional companies that adopted this strategy increased their profits dramatically. A greater number tried and failed, suffering severe financial consequences. BLZ is not well known outside its home area. Research indicates that the BLZ name is viewed positively by those who know it. National clothing chains can offer lower prices because of their greater buying power. BLZ currently faces increasingly heavy competition in its home region from such chains.

The “regional plan” is to increase the number and size of stores in the company’s home region and upgrade their facilities, product quality, and service. This could be achieved for the most part with existing cash reserves. These upgrades would generally increase the prices that BLZ charges. In one trial store in which such changes were implemented, sales and profits have increased. The local population is growing. BLZ enjoys strong customer loyalty. Regional expansion could be accomplished primarily using BLZ’s experienced and loyal staff and would allow continued reliance on known and trusted suppliers, contractors, and other business connections.

As you read through the facts, take notes that list out the pros and cons for each plan. Here’s a simple outline that you can follow as you come up with your own pros and cons:

• Potentially increase profits dramatically
• Positive name recognition (in home region)
• Better buying power
• Stronger ability to fight national competition
• Considerable debt
• Potential severe financial consequences
• Not well known outside of region
• Existing cash / less liability
• Limited study shows success with upgrades
• Customer loyalty in home region
• Doesn’t rock the boat/less risk
• Forced increase in prices?
• Continue to fight national chains in region
• Smaller potential increases in profit
• Study is limited as proof of success

In your first sentence, tell the reader what plan the company should implement.

Next, give the reader reasons why the company should follow that plan. Tie your reasons back to the two goals of the company.

Also, when you give your reasons, don’t forget to address the potential weaknesses of your plan. But do so quickly. And immediately follow each weakness with a reason why the company should follow your recommendation. In other words, concede a weakness and then get back to arguing for your position as soon as possible. In your last sentence, restate your position.

Model Writing Sample

BLZ should adopt the regional plan for expansion because the company can accomplish its two goals of increasing profits and achieving financial stability without much risk. Under the regional plan, BLZ can upgrade with cash on hand without taking on considerable debt and potential unknowns required under the national plan.

Also, BLZ currently enjoys strong customer loyalty and positive name recognition in their home region. Gaining those attributes at a national level might be possible, but the business could run out of cash before securing a national footprint and a sizable market share.

The national plan could increase profits more than the regional plan. But the regional plan allows BLZ to expand in conditions that use its current and highly skilled staff, allowing for moderate growth and upgrades to its regional facilities. According to the case study, upgraded facilities at a regional store increased both sales and profits. These results may not apply to every BLZ store, but they suggest the regional plan is the safer bet.

The national plan could also provide BLZ better buying power and a greater ability to fight national competition in its home region. These benefits, however, are outweighed by the huge risk of taking on tons of debt to compete outside the region where they are known. BLZ is already struggling against the national chain inside their own territory where it enjoys strong customer loyalty.

The regional plan positions the company for expansion where BLZ can get the most bang for its buck. Customer loyalty and name recognition is key to the success of an expanding store. By choosing to stay on home turf, BLZ risks far less to upgrade facilities where it already has customers. The more moderate increase in profits and sales may take BLZ longer to achieve its desired goals, but the national plan risks BLZ going out of business altogether.

Finally, the regional plan does not preclude BLZ from expanding nationally in the future. The same is not true for the national plan. Going out of business with the national plan is a real risk. To pursue the goals of increasing profits and achieving long-term financial stability, BLZ should adopt the regional plan for expansion.

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NPR defends its journalism after senior editor says it has lost the public's trust

David Folkenflik

NPR is defending its journalism and integrity after a senior editor wrote an essay accusing it of losing the public's trust. Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

NPR is defending its journalism and integrity after a senior editor wrote an essay accusing it of losing the public's trust.

NPR's top news executive defended its journalism and its commitment to reflecting a diverse array of views on Tuesday after a senior NPR editor wrote a broad critique of how the network has covered some of the most important stories of the age.

"An open-minded spirit no longer exists within NPR, and now, predictably, we don't have an audience that reflects America," writes Uri Berliner.

A strategic emphasis on diversity and inclusion on the basis of race, ethnicity and sexual orientation, promoted by NPR's former CEO, John Lansing, has fed "the absence of viewpoint diversity," Berliner writes.

NPR's chief news executive, Edith Chapin, wrote in a memo to staff Tuesday afternoon that she and the news leadership team strongly reject Berliner's assessment.

"We're proud to stand behind the exceptional work that our desks and shows do to cover a wide range of challenging stories," she wrote. "We believe that inclusion — among our staff, with our sourcing, and in our overall coverage — is critical to telling the nuanced stories of this country and our world."

NPR names tech executive Katherine Maher to lead in turbulent era

She added, "None of our work is above scrutiny or critique. We must have vigorous discussions in the newsroom about how we serve the public as a whole."

A spokesperson for NPR said Chapin, who also serves as the network's chief content officer, would have no further comment.

Praised by NPR's critics

Berliner is a senior editor on NPR's Business Desk. (Disclosure: I, too, am part of the Business Desk, and Berliner has edited many of my past stories. He did not see any version of this article or participate in its preparation before it was posted publicly.)

Berliner's essay , titled "I've Been at NPR for 25 years. Here's How We Lost America's Trust," was published by The Free Press, a website that has welcomed journalists who have concluded that mainstream news outlets have become reflexively liberal.

Berliner writes that as a Subaru-driving, Sarah Lawrence College graduate who "was raised by a lesbian peace activist mother ," he fits the mold of a loyal NPR fan.

Yet Berliner says NPR's news coverage has fallen short on some of the most controversial stories of recent years, from the question of whether former President Donald Trump colluded with Russia in the 2016 election, to the origins of the virus that causes COVID-19, to the significance and provenance of emails leaked from a laptop owned by Hunter Biden weeks before the 2020 election. In addition, he blasted NPR's coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

On each of these stories, Berliner asserts, NPR has suffered from groupthink due to too little diversity of viewpoints in the newsroom.

The essay ricocheted Tuesday around conservative media , with some labeling Berliner a whistleblower . Others picked it up on social media, including Elon Musk, who has lambasted NPR for leaving his social media site, X. (Musk emailed another NPR reporter a link to Berliner's article with a gibe that the reporter was a "quisling" — a World War II reference to someone who collaborates with the enemy.)

When asked for further comment late Tuesday, Berliner declined, saying the essay spoke for itself.

The arguments he raises — and counters — have percolated across U.S. newsrooms in recent years. The #MeToo sexual harassment scandals of 2016 and 2017 forced newsrooms to listen to and heed more junior colleagues. The social justice movement prompted by the killing of George Floyd in 2020 inspired a reckoning in many places. Newsroom leaders often appeared to stand on shaky ground.

Leaders at many newsrooms, including top editors at The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times , lost their jobs. Legendary Washington Post Executive Editor Martin Baron wrote in his memoir that he feared his bonds with the staff were "frayed beyond repair," especially over the degree of self-expression his journalists expected to exert on social media, before he decided to step down in early 2021.

Since then, Baron and others — including leaders of some of these newsrooms — have suggested that the pendulum has swung too far.

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Legendary editor marty baron describes his 'collision of power' with trump and bezos.

New York Times publisher A.G. Sulzberger warned last year against journalists embracing a stance of what he calls "one-side-ism": "where journalists are demonstrating that they're on the side of the righteous."

"I really think that that can create blind spots and echo chambers," he said.

Internal arguments at The Times over the strength of its reporting on accusations that Hamas engaged in sexual assaults as part of a strategy for its Oct. 7 attack on Israel erupted publicly . The paper conducted an investigation to determine the source of a leak over a planned episode of the paper's podcast The Daily on the subject, which months later has not been released. The newsroom guild accused the paper of "targeted interrogation" of journalists of Middle Eastern descent.

Heated pushback in NPR's newsroom

Given Berliner's account of private conversations, several NPR journalists question whether they can now trust him with unguarded assessments about stories in real time. Others express frustration that he had not sought out comment in advance of publication. Berliner acknowledged to me that for this story, he did not seek NPR's approval to publish the piece, nor did he give the network advance notice.

Some of Berliner's NPR colleagues are responding heatedly. Fernando Alfonso, a senior supervising editor for digital news, wrote that he wholeheartedly rejected Berliner's critique of the coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict, for which NPR's journalists, like their peers, periodically put themselves at risk.

Alfonso also took issue with Berliner's concern over the focus on diversity at NPR.

"As a person of color who has often worked in newsrooms with little to no people who look like me, the efforts NPR has made to diversify its workforce and its sources are unique and appropriate given the news industry's long-standing lack of diversity," Alfonso says. "These efforts should be celebrated and not denigrated as Uri has done."

After this story was first published, Berliner contested Alfonso's characterization, saying his criticism of NPR is about the lack of diversity of viewpoints, not its diversity itself.

"I never criticized NPR's priority of achieving a more diverse workforce in terms of race, ethnicity and sexual orientation. I have not 'denigrated' NPR's newsroom diversity goals," Berliner said. "That's wrong."

Questions of diversity

Under former CEO John Lansing, NPR made increasing diversity, both of its staff and its audience, its "North Star" mission. Berliner says in the essay that NPR failed to consider broader diversity of viewpoint, noting, "In D.C., where NPR is headquartered and many of us live, I found 87 registered Democrats working in editorial positions and zero Republicans."

Berliner cited audience estimates that suggested a concurrent falloff in listening by Republicans. (The number of people listening to NPR broadcasts and terrestrial radio broadly has declined since the start of the pandemic.)

Former NPR vice president for news and ombudsman Jeffrey Dvorkin tweeted , "I know Uri. He's not wrong."

Others questioned Berliner's logic. "This probably gets causality somewhat backward," tweeted Semafor Washington editor Jordan Weissmann . "I'd guess that a lot of NPR listeners who voted for [Mitt] Romney have changed how they identify politically."

Similarly, Nieman Lab founder Joshua Benton suggested the rise of Trump alienated many NPR-appreciating Republicans from the GOP.

In recent years, NPR has greatly enhanced the percentage of people of color in its workforce and its executive ranks. Four out of 10 staffers are people of color; nearly half of NPR's leadership team identifies as Black, Asian or Latino.

"The philosophy is: Do you want to serve all of America and make sure it sounds like all of America, or not?" Lansing, who stepped down last month, says in response to Berliner's piece. "I'd welcome the argument against that."

"On radio, we were really lagging in our representation of an audience that makes us look like what America looks like today," Lansing says. The U.S. looks and sounds a lot different than it did in 1971, when NPR's first show was broadcast, Lansing says.

A network spokesperson says new NPR CEO Katherine Maher supports Chapin and her response to Berliner's critique.

The spokesperson says that Maher "believes that it's a healthy thing for a public service newsroom to engage in rigorous consideration of the needs of our audiences, including where we serve our mission well and where we can serve it better."

Disclosure: This story was reported and written by NPR Media Correspondent David Folkenflik and edited by Deputy Business Editor Emily Kopp and Managing Editor Gerry Holmes. Under NPR's protocol for reporting on itself, no NPR corporate official or news executive reviewed this story before it was posted publicly.

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Guest Essay

J.D. Vance: The Math on Ukraine Doesn’t Add Up

By J. D. Vance

Mr. Vance, a Republican, is the junior senator from Ohio.

President Biden wants the world to believe that the biggest obstacle facing Ukraine is Republicans and our lack of commitment to the global community. This is wrong.

Ukraine’s challenge is not the G.O.P.; it’s math. Ukraine needs more soldiers than it can field, even with draconian conscription policies. And it needs more matériel than the United States can provide. This reality must inform any future Ukraine policy, from further congressional aid to the diplomatic course set by the president.

The Biden administration has applied increasing pressure on Republicans to pass a supplemental aid package of more than $60 billion to Ukraine. I voted against this package in the Senate and remain opposed to virtually any proposal for the United States to continue funding this war. Mr. Biden has failed to articulate even basic facts about what Ukraine needs and how this aid will change the reality on the ground.

The most fundamental question: How much does Ukraine need and how much can we actually provide? Mr. Biden suggests that a $60 billion supplemental means the difference between victory and defeat in a major war between Russia and Ukraine. That is also wrong. This $60 billion is a fraction of what it would take to turn the tide in Ukraine’s favor. But this is not just a matter of dollars. Fundamentally, we lack the capacity to manufacture the amount of weapons Ukraine needs us to supply to win the war.

Consider our ability to produce 155-millimeter artillery shells. Last year, Ukraine’s defense minister estimated that the country’s base-line requirement for these shells was over four million per year but that it could fire up to seven million if that many were available. Since the start of the conflict, the United States has gone to great lengths to ramp up production of 155-millimeter shells. We’ve roughly doubled our capacity and can now produce 360,000 per year — less than a tenth of what Ukraine says it needs. The administration’s goal is to get this to 1.2 million — 30 percent of what’s needed — by the end of 2025. This would cost the American taxpayers dearly while yielding an unpleasantly familiar result: failure abroad.

Just this week, the top American military commander in Europe argued that absent further security assistance, Russia could soon have a 10-to-1 artillery advantage over Ukraine. What didn’t gather as many headlines is that Russia’s current advantage is at least 5 to 1, even after all the money we have poured into the conflict. Neither of these ratios plausibly leads to Ukrainian victory.

Proponents of American aid to Ukraine have argued that our approach has been a boon to our own economy, creating jobs here in the factories that manufacture weapons. But our national security interests can be — and often are — separate from our economic interests. The notion that we should prolong a bloody and gruesome war because it’s been good for American business is grotesque. We can and should rebuild our industrial base without shipping its products to a foreign conflict.

The story is the same when we look at other munitions. Take the Patriot missile system — our premier air defense weapon. It’s of such importance in this war that Ukraine’s foreign minister has specifically demanded them. That’s because in March alone, Russia reportedly launched over 3,000 guided aerial bombs, 600 drones and 400 missiles at Ukraine. To fend off these attacks, the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, and others have indicated they need thousands of Patriot interceptors per year. The problem is this: The United States only manufactures 550 per year. If we pass the supplemental aid package currently being considered in Congress, we could potentially increase annual production to 650, but that’s still less than a third of what Ukraine requires.

These weapons are not only needed by Ukraine. If China were to set its sights on Taiwan, the Patriot missile system would be critical to its defense. In fact, the United States has promised to send Taiwan nearly $900 million worth of Patriot missiles, but delivery of those weapons and other essential resources has been severely delayed, partly because of shortages caused by the war in Ukraine.

If that sounds bad, Ukraine’s manpower situation is even worse. Here are the basics: Russia has nearly four times the population of Ukraine. Ukraine needs upward of half a million new recruits, but hundreds of thousands of fighting-age men have already fled the country. The average Ukrainian soldier is roughly 43 years old , and many soldiers have already served two years at the front with few, if any, opportunities to stop fighting. After two years of conflict, there are some villages with almost no men left. The Ukrainian military has resorted to coercing men into service, and women have staged protests to demand the return of their husbands and fathers after long years of service at the front. This newspaper reported one instance in which the Ukrainian military attempted to conscript a man with a diagnosed mental disability.

Many in Washington seem to think that hundreds of thousands of young Ukrainians have gone to war with a song in their heart and are happy to label any thought to the contrary Russian propaganda. But major newspapers on both sides of the Atlantic are reporting that the situation on the ground in Ukraine is grim.

These basic mathematical realities were true, but contestable, at the outset of the war. They were obvious and incontestable a year ago, when American leadership worked closely with Mr. Zelensky to undertake a disastrous counteroffensive. The bad news is that accepting brute reality would have been most useful last spring, before the Ukrainians launched that extremely costly and unsuccessful military campaign. The good news is that even now, a defensive strategy can work. Digging in with old-fashioned ditches, cement and land mines are what enabled Russia to weather Ukraine’s 2023 counteroffensive. Our allies in Europe could better support such a strategy, as well. While some European countries have provided considerable resources, the burden of military support has thus far fallen heaviest on the United States.

By committing to a defensive strategy, Ukraine can preserve its precious military manpower, stop the bleeding and provide time for negotiations to commence. But this would require both the American and Ukrainian leadership to accept that Mr. Zelensky’s stated goal for the war — a return to 1991 boundaries — is fantastical.

The White House has said time and again that it can’t negotiate with President Vladimir Putin of Russia. This is absurd. The Biden administration has no viable plan for the Ukrainians to win this war. The sooner Americans confront this truth, the sooner we can fix this mess and broker for peace.

J.D. Vance ( @JDVance1 ), a Republican, is the junior senator from Ohio.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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