Reply #9: IRAC [View All]

[rsdsharp]

In most law schools that's the key to a good essay test result.


I - Issue. You need to identify and state the legal issue, or issues, posed by the question. Do this clearly, and up front: "The issue posed by this question is what type of estate is created."

R - Rule. State the general rule, or rules, that apply to the issue(s). This may be a set of elements, a three-part test, etc. Case cites to the rule are good, but not really necessary.

A - Analysis. Analyze the facts as they apply to EACH issue and rule.

C - Conclusion. Reach a conclusion based on the analysis. This is the least important step, as all but the clearest of cases will have at least two sides which can be argued to a logical conclusion. Don't omit it, however.

Write the essay with that kind of structure and you should do very well. It also makes for a very easy method to outline the answer before you begin writing.