Essay Writing Flashcards

Which transition phrase is most appropriate when introducing a concession in an LNAT essay?

Answer: Admittedly

'Admittedly' signals that you are conceding a point before countering it, demonstrating intellectual honesty.

When the LNAT prompt states 'Discuss,' the correct approach is to:

Answer: Present multiple perspectives and ultimately defend a reasoned conclusion of your own

'Discuss' prompts require engagement with competing views before arriving at a supported personal conclusion.

In a 40-minute LNAT essay session, approximately how much time should be spent planning before writing?

Answer: 5–8 minutes to outline the argument and structure

A brief but focused plan ensures the essay is structured and prevents mid-essay direction changes that waste time.

Which of the following best illustrates an evaluative claim rather than a descriptive one?

Answer: Mandatory voting is preferable to voluntary voting because it prevents the systematic under-representation of lower-income groups.

An evaluative claim asserts why something is better or worse based on a stated reason, which is what LNAT markers reward.

An essay arguing that 'free speech should have no legal limits' would be strengthened most by:

Answer: Acknowledging harms caused by unrestricted speech and explaining why legal intervention is still unjustified

Engaging honestly with the strongest objection and rebutting it makes the argument more persuasive and credible.

Which error is most damaging to the logical structure of an LNAT essay?

Answer: Changing your main argument partway through the essay without signalling the shift

Inconsistent argumentation destroys coherence and signals to examiners a lack of analytical clarity.

The conclusion of an LNAT essay should primarily:

Answer: Synthesize the main points and reaffirm the thesis in light of the argument made

A strong conclusion draws together the threads of the argument and shows how they collectively support your position.