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LNAT Essay Examples 2023 – 2024 LNAT Essay Question Bank with Model Answers Sample Essays

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The Law National Admissions Test (LNAT) is an essential part of the application process for some of the top law schools in the United Kingdom. The essay section, in particular, holds significant weight, as it gauges an applicant’s ability to critically analyze, form logical arguments, and effectively communicate ideas. The essay is also an opportunity for students to display their language skills.

In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at LNAT essays, including some examples, structure, format, word limit, scoring, questions, mark scheme, and essay writing tips.

Also included below is a comprehensive LNAT Essay Question Bank, with 90 essay questions or prompts – each linked to model or sample essay for that question.

Types of Questions

LNAT essay questions typically cover a range of topics, including politics, law, ethics, and social issues. These questions require you to form a well-reasoned argument on a complex, open-ended subject. You must demonstrate your ability to analyze various perspectives, draw upon evidence, and communicate your thoughts effectively.

Remember, essay type questions are subjective in nature – i.e., the same essay when read by two different assessors, may be perceived in two different ways. Therefore, it becomes essential to keep the essay as balanced as possible; displaying equal consideration to both sides of an argument.

Choosing the Right Question

When selecting an essay question, consider your familiarity with the topic, your ability to formulate a strong argument, and the availability of supporting evidence. Choose a question that allows you to showcase your analytical skills, critical thinking, and writing prowess.

Do not choose a question on the basis of how strongly you feel about the topic; instead, choose on the basis of how much can you write about the topic.

A common factor among all the LNAT Essay Questions is that they do not have any particular ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ answer. They are just testing your ability to construct, convey and defend an argument.

LNAT Essay Question Examples

These are some examples of what the LNAT Essay questions or essay prompts look like.

LNAT Essay Example 1: “Should the death penalty be abolished worldwide?”

This essay can begin with a brief overview of the history of capital punishment and then proceed to discuss the moral, legal, and social implications of the death penalty. The essay can delve into the arguments for and against capital punishment, touching on issues such as deterrence, retribution, and human rights. The conclusion should summarize the arguments presented and offer a final viewpoint on the issue.

Click here to read a model / sample essay on the above topic.

LNAT Essay Example 2: “Does a strong welfare system promote laziness and dependence?”

This essay should explore the nature of welfare systems, their goals, and their potential drawbacks. The author can consider the arguments that support and oppose welfare systems, addressing concerns such as economic efficiency, social cohesion, and individual responsibility. The conclusion should weigh the pros and cons of strong welfare systems and provide a balanced, informed opinion on the matter.

LNAT Essay Example 3: “Should governments regulate social media to combat fake news?”

This sample essay can discuss the phenomenon of fake news, its impact on society, and the role of social media platforms in its propagation. The essay should examine the responsibilities of social media companies and the potential consequences of government intervention. By providing concrete examples and case studies, the author can present a well-reasoned argument on the issue.

LNAT Essay Example 4: “Do privacy concerns outweigh the benefits of mass surveillance in combating terrorism?”

In this sample essay, the author can discuss the balance between individual privacy and national security. The essay should explore the effectiveness of mass surveillance in preventing terrorist attacks and consider the potential dangers of government overreach. The conclusion should address whether the benefits of mass surveillance justify the erosion of privacy rights.

LNAT Essay Structure and Format

A well-structured essay is crucial to effectively communicating your ideas and ensuring a logical flow of arguments. A clear structure allows your reader to follow your line of reasoning easily, resulting in a more persuasive essay.

The hook is the opening sentence or two of an essay, designed to grab the reader’s attention and pique their interest. It often includes a thought-provoking statement, an interesting fact, a quote, or a question. The goal of the hook is to entice the reader to continue reading and become engaged with the essay’s subject matter.

Introduction

Following the hook, the introduction sets the stage for the essay by providing context and background information. It introduces the topic and provides an overview of what the essay will discuss. The introduction should be engaging and informative, giving the reader a sense of the essay’s purpose and direction.

The thesis statement is a crucial part of the essay, as it presents the main argument or point that the essay will address. It is typically included at the end of the introduction and serves as a roadmap for the rest of the essay. A strong thesis statement is clear, concise, and arguable, allowing the reader to understand the essay’s focus and what the author aims to prove or demonstrate.

Body paragraphs

Body paragraphs form the core of the essay, each one dedicated to a specific aspect of the thesis statement. They should be organized logically, with clear transitions between them, and each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that outlines its main point. This structure helps the reader follow the essay’s argument and ensures that each point is developed and supported effectively.

Evidence is the factual information, examples, and data that support the essay’s arguments. It is crucial for establishing the credibility of the essay and convincing the reader of the validity of the author’s claims. Each body paragraph should include relevant and well-researched evidence to back up its main point and demonstrate the truth of the thesis statement.

Arguments and Counterarguments

A well-rounded essay not only presents the author’s arguments but also addresses potential counterarguments or opposing viewpoints. This demonstrates the author’s understanding of the complexity of the topic and adds depth to the essay. By acknowledging and refuting counterarguments, the author strengthens their own argument and persuades the reader more effectively.

The conclusion is the final section of the essay, in which the author restates the thesis, summarizes the main points, and offers a closing thought or call to action. It should leave the reader with a sense of closure and a full understanding of the essay’s purpose and main arguments. The conclusion should not introduce new information but instead tie together the essay’s main points and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

LNAT Essay Word Limit

The ideal length of the LNAT essay is around 600 words. In any case, the LNAT essay screen has a built-in word limit of 750 words.

Given that you will have to write, edit and polish your essay within 40 minutes, the 600 word length is the most practical approach.

These days, many users prefer using their smart phones or tablets / iPads for daily tasks – so it is essential to get a good amount of practice using a regular keyboard.

LawMint LNAT Practice Test series includes 30 full length timed practice tests – with 90 essay questions. We strongly recommend that you should select a different essay question in each attempt, to practice writing on a wide range of topics.

Strategies for Staying within the Word Limit

To stay within the word limit,

• Take a couple of minutes to plan your essay before you start writing.
• Type in the main section headlines first – hook, introduction, thesis, body paragraphs, arguments / counter arguments, conclusion.
• Outline your main points and allocate a specific number of words to each section.
• Remember – A crisp and well articulated essay will fetch more marks than a long and verbose one.

As you write, keep track of your word count and adjust your arguments as necessary to ensure that you do not exceed the limit.

LNAT Essay Score

The LNAT essay is not marked automatically or assessed by Pearson VUE. The essay is sent ‘as is’ to the universities you have chosen while registering for the LNAT.

Universities will evaluate your essay as per their own criteria. Some may give it significant weightage and assess it formally. Others may read the essay only if required to differentiate between two or more candidates with similar LNAT MCQ scores and academic achievements.

General Assessment Criteria

Your LNAT essay will generally be assessed based on your ability to form a coherent argument, use evidence and examples to support your claims, and express your ideas clearly and concisely.

Your essay will also be evaluated on its overall structure, logical flow, and the quality of your writing, including grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

Maximizing Your Essay Score: To maximize your LNAT essay score, ensure that you address the essay prompt directly and comprehensively. Develop a strong thesis statement, and build your essay around it, using appropriate evidence and examples. Be sure to maintain a balanced perspective by acknowledging counterarguments and providing thoughtful, well-reasoned responses.

Remember! – The LNAT Essay screen does not have automatic proofreading. Unlike in normal browser text fields, spelling errors will not be highlighted. Ensure that you proofread your essays carefully to eliminate any errors in grammar, punctuation, or spelling.

LNAT Essay Tips

Plan and outline.

Before you begin writing, take the time to plan and outline your essay. Identify the main points you want to make, organize them logically, and allocate a specific word count to each section. This will help you stay within the word limit and ensure that your essay flows smoothly.

Balance Your Arguments

A strong LNAT essay should present a balanced view of the issue, acknowledging opposing perspectives and addressing counterarguments. This demonstrates your ability to think critically and consider multiple viewpoints, which is an essential skill for a successful law student.

Edit and Proofread

After completing your essay, set it aside for a short period before returning to it for editing and proofreading. This allows you to approach your work with fresh eyes and identify any errors or inconsistencies. Make sure your essay is free from grammatical, punctuation, and spelling errors, and ensure that your arguments are clear and logically organized.

LNAT Essay Question Bank

This is a list of 90 LNAT Essay Questions that are included in LawMint LNAT Practice Tests. Practice writing a 600 word essay on each of these questions. Click on the links to see the sample essays that can provide you with some ideas and suggestions.

• Are mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses an effective way to combat drug abuse?
• Are remote work policies effective in promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
• Are safe spaces on college campuses beneficial for promoting open dialogue and inclusivity?
• Are universal background checks for gun purchases an effective way to reduce gun violence?
• Are whistleblowers morally justified in breaking the law to expose corruption?
• Are zero-tolerance policies in schools effective in promoting discipline and safety?
• Artificial Intelligence will not significantly transform the legal sector. Share your perspective.
• Can a policy of complete open borders be justified? Discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks.
• Can a universal basic income help to reduce poverty and income inequality?
• Can automation and artificial intelligence lead to greater social equality
• Can freedom of speech be limited in the interest of public safety?
• Can hate speech laws infringe on freedom of expression? Discuss the potential consequences.
• Can intrusive surveillance measures be justified in the name of national security?
• Can societies achieve gender equality without affirmative action policies?
• Can strict regulations on businesses lead to better corporate social responsibility?
• Can the use of alternative energy sources alone solve the global energy crisis? Discuss the challenges.
• Can the use of economic sanctions be justified as a non-violent means of conflict resolution?
• Can the widespread adoption of electric vehicles significantly reduce air pollution?
• Can there be valid reasons for withholding information from the public during a trial? If so, under what circumstances?
• Discuss the ethical implications of regulating potentially harmful activities, such as extreme sports or certain sexual practices.
• Discuss the ethical implications of using genetic screening for non-medical purposes, such as choosing a child’s physical traits.
• Discuss the ethics and potential risks of using gene editing technologies, such as CRISPR, in humans.
• Discuss the morality and effectiveness of implementing a universal basic income.
• How essential is the right to privacy in a democratic society? Can it ever be limited?
• Implementing a ‘Corporate Death Penalty’ could prevent businesses from violating the law. Agree or disagree?
• In cases of conflicting patient and doctor opinions, whose perspective should take precedence?
• In cases of online harassment or bullying, should platforms or individuals be held responsible?
• In sexual assault cases, the accused should bear the burden of proof.
• In the future, should parents have the option to genetically modify their children?
• Is a wealth tax an effective way to address income inequality? Discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks.
• Is censorship of media during times of crisis ever justified?
• Is implementing quotas the sole solution for achieving gender equality in the workplace? Provide your perspective.
• Is it ethical for companies to use unpaid internships as a form of labor? Discuss the implications for young professionals and the job market.
• Is it ethical for employers to monitor their employees’ online activity during work hours?
• Is it ethical for governments to use lotteries as a source of revenue? Discuss the potential consequences.
• Is it ethical for governments to use targeted killings as a counterterrorism measure?
• Is it ethical for researchers to use animals in scientific experiments? Discuss the scientific and ethical implications.
• Is the Right to be Forgotten essential for maintaining individual freedom?
• Laws should prioritize individual liberties over public safety. Do you agree or disagree?
• Mandatory retirement ages should be abolished. Do you agree or disagree?
• Organ donation after death should be made compulsory. Do you agree? Discuss the ethical implications.
• Should access to higher education be a universal right? Discuss the implications for society.
• Should corporal punishment be allowed as a form of discipline in schools?
• Should countries adopt a four-day work week to improve work-life balance?
• Should countries adopt a universal healthcare system?
• Should euthanasia be legalized for patients with terminal illnesses?
• Should governments focus on creating jobs or providing social safety nets?
• Should governments focus on long-term sustainability or immediate economic growth?
• Should governments prioritize environmental protection over economic growth?
• Should governments prioritize space exploration over addressing pressing issues on Earth?
• Should governments prioritize the well-being of their citizens over economic growth?
• Should internet access be considered a human right?
• Should legal measures be taken to prevent the ‘Uberization’ of industries?
• Should mandatory diversity training be implemented in the workplace?
• Should mandatory military service be implemented in all countries?
• Should medical professionals prioritize patient autonomy or medical ethics in treatment decisions?
• Should military intervention ever be justified on humanitarian grounds?
• Should nations prioritize investing in renewable energy over maintaining fossil fuel industries?
• Should parents have the right to opt their children out of sex education classes?
• Should political advertisements on social media be regulated?
• Should politicians prioritize long-term goals or short-term gains when making policy decisions?
• Should politicians with controversial views be allowed to run for office?
• Should public figures have the same privacy rights as ordinary citizens?
• Should religious institutions be exempt from certain laws, such as anti-discrimination legislation?
• Should restrictions be placed on strike rights rather than limiting CEO compensation?
• Should social media platforms be held accountable for the spread of fake news?
• Should social media platforms be responsible for moderating the content shared by their users?
• Should standardized testing be the primary factor in college admissions?
• Should the death penalty be abolished? Discuss the moral and practical arguments.
• Should the government fund and promote the arts?
• Should the government provide free internet access to all citizens?
• Should the government regulate the content of news media to combat misinformation?
• Should the legal age for marriage be raised to prevent child marriages?
• Should the legal age for purchasing cigarettes be raised to 21?
• Should the legal age to vote be lowered to 16?
• Should the sharing economy be more tightly regulated to protect workers’ rights?
• Should the use of animals for entertainment purposes, such as circuses and zoos, be prohibited?
• Should the use of facial recognition technology by law enforcement be regulated?
• Should the use of performance-enhancing drugs be permitted in professional sports?
• Should there be a cap on campaign spending for political candidates?
• Should there be a maximum age limit for political candidates?
• Should vaccinations be mandatory for all citizens, with few exceptions?
• The legal age for consuming alcohol should be raised to 21. Do you agree or disagree?
• Under what circumstances is civil disobedience morally justifiable?
• Under what circumstances, if any, can the use of nuclear weapons be justified or excused?
• University admissions should be based solely on merit. Do you agree or disagree?
• When selecting judges, should diversity be a factor in the decision-making process?
• Which is more important, individual privacy or national security?
• Who should have the final say on human rights: elected officials or constitutional courts?

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Preparation guide

Your free online guide to preparing for the LNAT Test

You can now download a free guide to preparing for the LNAT test.

The guide will:

• explain what the LNAT is used for and the benefits of taking the test
• help you to prepare for sitting it by explaining which skills and abilities you should try to demonstrate
• give you advice from LNAT examiners and students on how to approach LNAT’s multiple choice and essay questions
• give you sample questions along with answers and rationales from LNAT examiners, practical preparation tips and recommended reading

To download the guide click the download link below.  You will need adobe pdf reader.

Your guide to Preparing for the LNAT

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National admissions test for law (lnat) section b essay task, what is the lnat and how is the paper formatted.

The LNAT is a 2-hour 15-minute test (unless you have specific requirements that mean you need extra time) divided into two sections.

Section A is a computer-based, multiple-choice exam consisting of 42 questions. The questions are based on 12 passages, with 3 or 4 multiple-choice questions on each. You are given 95 minutes to answer all of the questions.

In Section B, which will be the focus of this guide, you will be given 40 minutes to write an essay from a list of three subjects. This section is marked by the tutors at the college you are applying to, and this mark is taken into account as part of the selection process. The essay is your opportunity to show your ability to construct a compelling argument and reach a conclusion.

The LNAT isn’t designed to test your knowledge of Law or any other subject. Instead, it helps the examiners to assess your aptitude for studying Law. 

What is the assessment criteria for the essay?

The purpose of the essay is to see whether you can build a strong case, using evidence and analysis, so avoid sitting on the fence!

How to approach writing your essay

The first thing you should do, before writing any essay, is write a plan. You should firstly take some time to figure out your overall argument before starting. Write this as the heading of your essay plan- this will help ensure you always have the main argument in mind when you are planning which key points will support your essay. It might also be worth spending two minutes of your planning time writing down all the possible points and evidence you could use to support your overall argument. That will make it easier to pinpoint the three strongest and most convincing points. Spend about five minutes coming up with a plan.

Given you have 40 minutes, you should aim to have an introduction, about three paragraphs (one for each point) and a conclusion. Remember: your essay should be analytical, not descriptive! That means you should make a clear judgement and persuasively convince your reader that your argument makes sense, by using evidence.  According to the Lawyer Portal, here is an example of how you can structure your essay, so that you can clearly express your ideas:

1. Introduction

• Definition of key terms;
• Explanation of assumptions;
• Framing of the question;
• Signposting your approach.
• An  introduction  should be used as a way to clearly highlight your argument and introduce the points you are going to use to illustrate it.

2. Next section: Arguments in Favour of Your Position

• Reasons why you agree/disagree with the topic.
• Three clear, well-defined arguments with examples.

3. Arguments to the Contrary

• Identifying arguments against your position.
• An attempt to undermine these.

4. Conclusion

• What you believe and why.
• A  conclusion , on the other hand, should be used as a final emphasis of your presented argument as the right one and should leave the reader feeling persuaded of your argument even if their personal response would be different.

Advice on how to prepare

Read some past papers so you feel more familiar with the paper. You can find these here: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/applying-to-oxford/tests/lnat

It may be useful to sit a few mock exams, so you can get used to the timings of the paper, which can be quite intimidating for those unfamiliar with the test!

To learn more about how to prepare, take a look at the official LNAT website: https://lnat.ac.uk/how-to-prepare/

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LNAT Guide - Everything You Need To Know About LNAT

Are you taking the LNAT this year? Find out everything you need to know about the LNAT through our comprehensive guide, covering both sections of the test and all the admin you need to be aware of.

Guide to the LNAT

• Find out what the LNAT is
• See which universities require it
• Read about what the test involves
• Consider when to sit the test

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If you are taking the 2022 Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT), use our guide to learn what the LNAT is, where you can take it and why some universities want you to have taken the exam.

The LNAT in a Nutshell

You’ll need to sit the Law National Aptitude Test if you’re applying to a LNAT university. It helps you to understand if law is the right career path for you. It also helps LNAT universities to assess whether you would be able to succeed on a law course.

What is the LNAT Test?

The LNAT is a computer-based law entrance exam. You will need to get a good score if you want to study an undergraduate law degree at one of 10 UK-based LNAT universities or 2 international LNAT universities. 

The exam assesses your verbal reasoning skills, your ability to understand and interpret information, your inductive and deductive reasoning abilities, and your ability to analyse information and draw conclusions. Contrary to some perceptions of the LNAT, it is not an intelligence test, nor is it a test of your knowledge of law.

The LNAT is split into two sections:

• Section A : Features 42 multiple-choice questions, much like a driving theory test, which count towards your final LNAT score. The questions are based on 12 argumentative passages, with 3 to 4 multiple-choice questions each.
• Section B : Gives you three essay questions to choose from and you must answer one, but your answer does not count towards your final result. The essay questions will cover a range of subjects, so it’s useful to have knowledge of current affairs.

How Long Is The LNAT?

The LNAT lasts for 2 hours 15 minutes, split across the two sections. You are given 95 minutes to answer the 42 multiple-choice questions and 40 minutes to answer one of the three essay questions.

Who Should Take The LNAT?

You’ll need to take the LNAT test if you’re applying to a law degree and it’s specified as an entry requirement. There are 12 LNAT universities around the world that require you to take the LNAT

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Why Do Some Universities Require LNAT?

The LNAT is used by universities to help admissions tutors decide which applicants to offer course places to if they have similar grades. It is also helpful when applicants have different qualifications. For example, it can be difficult to compare an applicant who has A-Levels with applicants that have a Master’s Degree.

What Are the LNAT Universities?

There are 12 LNAT universities; 10 are based in the UK and two are overseas. Nine of the 10 UK-based LNAT universities are Russell Group Unis, and three of them are in London.

UK LNAT Universities

• University of Bristol
• University of Cambridge
• Durham University
• University of Glasgow
• King’s College, London (KCL)
• London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
• University of Nottingham
• University of Oxford
• University College London (UCL)
• SOAS University of London

International LNAT Universities

• Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), Singapore
• IE School of Law, Spain

See how each uni uses your score in our guide to LNAT universities .

How do LNAT Scores work?

Your LNAT score is made up of a mark out of 42 for Section A, but you won’t get a formal score for the Section B essay. 

The average score last year was 20.8, but it’s worth noting that the average score for people accepted into LNAT universities was much higher. That’s why it’s essential you understand how to prepare for LNAT and you learn strategies to increase your chances of scoring higher.

See important dates for September 2022 entry below, but make sure to check with your chosen universities for any potential changes.

Check out our LNAT Registration page for further details on dates, how to register and finding a test centre.

University of Oxford Deadline

You must register and take the test before 15th October 2021 if you are applying to Oxford .

Other Universities

You can register for the LNAT from August 2021 and sit the test from September 2021 to 22 January 2022 .

If you are applying to UCL , you can sit the test before or on 26 January 2022 .

How can I prepare for the LNAT?

To prepare for the LNAT you should start by familiarising yourself with the test. The test is made up of two sections, requiring different skills, so it’s important to revise for both the multiple choice questions and the essay.

You can use our LNAT practice test questions to help you practice completing the exam under timed conditions.

You can work on your test skills and approach with our  LNAT workshops  or a self-paced  online LNAT course . If you want to work on specific skills or target areas of weakness, our one-to-one tutoring can help you prepare.

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