Rules. Your whole life you’ve had to live by the rules. Now you’re in law school and there are a whole bunch of rules you have to memorize that may have nothing to do with how you live your life. But you have to know these rules cold so they can come to you at the right moment during a law school exam. But wait, now you’re told there is a whole new category of rules. These are rules you have to create yourself in your legal writing class. This requires something called “synthesis.” So, what exactly does that mean? [Read more…] about The Art of Rule Synthesis
Writing an Essay Exam – You’ve Got to Have a Plan!
Your computer is plugged in, your snacks and drink of choice are laid out, and your colorful assortment of highlighters are at the ready. You are staring at the exam that is face down on the table when the proctor says the magic words – you may start. All of a sudden, the panic sets in and you realize you’re on the clock, and “what subject is this?” Okay, maybe not that last part, but you might be doubting whether you can get this done in the required time. You can, but you’ve got to have a plan!
But here’s the best part – the same plan works for every law school and bar exam essay. Once you internalize your plan, all you have to do is concentrate on the substance. The plan even works for those professors who claim they don’t focus on IRAC. The plan helps you get through the material in a methodical way, ensuring you don’t leave issues on the table. So, if you’re ready and willing, here it is: [Read more…] about Writing an Essay Exam – You’ve Got to Have a Plan!