Structuring a Coherent Essay Flashcards
7 cards from real LNAT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Structuring a Coherent Essay flashcards as text
In an LNAT essay, what is the primary function of a concluding paragraph?
Answer: To summarize key points and restate the thesis in light of the argument made
The conclusion synthesizes the argument by restating the thesis in light of evidence presented, without introducing new material.
Which transitional strategy best signals a concession followed by a rebuttal?
Answer: 'Admittedly, one might argue X; however, this overlooks Y'
The concession-rebuttal pattern acknowledges an opposing view before countering it, demonstrating analytical nuance.
An essay on whether free speech should be limited online has three body paragraphs. The most logical ordering would be:
Answer: Main argument, supporting evidence, counter-argument and rebuttal
Building the main argument before addressing counter-arguments allows the reader to understand your position before encountering challenges to it.
A student writes: 'The law is unfair. Many people think so. Therefore it should change.' What structural flaw does this exhibit?
Answer: Absence of reasoned support linking claim to conclusion
The passage makes a claim and jumps to a conclusion without providing logical reasoning or evidence to bridge them.
When writing an LNAT essay, why is it important to define key terms in the introduction?
Answer: To establish the scope and meaning of contested concepts your argument depends on
Defining key terms clarifies the conceptual boundaries of your argument and prevents ambiguity that could undermine coherence.
Which of the following best describes a 'signpost sentence' in essay writing?
Answer: A sentence that tells the reader what the paragraph will argue or has argued
Signpost sentences guide the reader through the essay's structure by indicating the purpose or content of a section.
An LNAT essay prompt asks: 'Should jury trials be abolished?' A student spends four of five paragraphs discussing the history of juries. This is an example of:
Answer: A disproportionate allocation of space that undermines argumentative focus
Spending the majority of the essay on background rather than argumentation weakens the essay's focus and fails to engage with the evaluative question.