LSAT Writing Section Topics
LSAT Argumentative Writing Sample Overview
The LSAT Writing task underwent a significant revision in July 2024. Before this change, the task was relatively straightforward: test takers were given 35 minutes to address a clearly presented dilemma by choosing one of two competing options. Several advantages and disadvantages were presented for each. Test takers chose an option, used the provided information, and crafted an argument in an essay in favor of the option they chose.
Since the update, the Argumentative Writing task looks quite different. Test takers are given a debatable issue along with three to four different perspectives that provide additional insight into the issue. Rather than being given two perspectives and choosing between them, test takers are now given several perspectives. They may support one other, conflict with each other, or simply provide additional information. Each perspective is intended to portray a specific value system within a few sentences. Test takers are expected to use those competing ideologies and arguments to compose a well-written essay argument.
Given that there are more perspectives to read and more information to consider, LSAC has extended the Writing task's time to 50 minutes. The first 15 minutes are intended for prewriting analysis, during which test takers can organize their thoughts using guided questions, and take notes using the provided digital notepad. The questions are intended to help test takers analyze the various perspectives and generate useful ideas for their essay. Once the preparatory 15-minute period is over, test takers have 35 minutes to write their essay.
The Writing task is digital and taken on-demand, which means it can be scheduled up to eight (8) days before you take the multiple-choice part of the LSAT or up to one year afterward. The Argumentative Writing task is not taken at the same time as the rest of the LSAT, and it cannot be completed at a testing center. It's taken using a laptop or desktop computer from the comfort of your own home or another quiet, well-lit location where you won't be interrupted.
LSAC provides clear information on the technology requirements needed to complete the Argumentative Writing task, as it's proctored via your webcam and microphone. The fee for the Writing task is included in the standard $248 LSAT registration cost.
Why Was the LSAT Argumentative Writing Task Changed?
According to LSAC, changes were made to the Argumentative Writing task primarily for two reasons. First, the new and improved task offers test takers a better opportunity to express themselves and their ideas through more open-ended writing.
Earlier versions of the LSAT presented test takers with two argument options and the advantages and disadvantages of each. The essays were intended to be logical and straightforward, but this method allowed very little creativity by test takers. It became more of an exercise in logic than a writing exercise to demonstrate argumentative skills critical to being a lawyer. The Argumentative Writing task assesses a test taker's ability to construct a concise argument using several evidentiary sources. It gives them the opportunity to construct an original thesis and defend it based on their own judgement and evaluation. LSAC notes that this allows for a more thorough assessment of test takers' use of complex decision-making skills, ability to use different rhetorical techniques, and other necessary skills for strong argumentative writing.
The second major reason for the Argumentative Writing task update is that it's part of an effort to help law programs better understand a candidate's writing abilities. More and more students are using AI-assisted technologies to craft personal statements and complete law school applications, making it difficult for admissions departments to have a good grasp of their innate writing skills. While test takers must currently have a writing sample on file for their LSAT scores to be sent to their designated law programs, law schools have made it clear they are treating writing samples as more important to the admissions process than perhaps they have ever been. While the Argumentative Writing sample remains unscored, LSAC has indicated this is subject to change, meaning there's a very real chance the Writing sample will have some sort of official score in the near future.
LSAT Argumentative Writing Task Topics
Through your LSAT LawHub account, you can access an official LSAT Argumentative Writing practice prompt to assist you in preparing for completing the real Writing task. This prompt is very useful in helping you become familiar with its content and computer interface.
Topics for the Argumentative Writing task are varied and come from multiple sources, just like the LSAT multiple-choice questions, which are drawn from the fields of law, natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences, as well as contemporary issues. While there's no way to know which specific topic you will be asked to write about, it will likely fall into one of the following categories:
- Social issues
- Ethical dilemmas
- Political debates/legal issues
- Personal opinions and values
Many topics will fall into more than one category, but unlike multiple-choice questions, identifying topic categories is not important and will likely not influence how you construct your argument. Rather than focusing on specific topics, you should focus on how to gather information from different perspectives and use that to construct a strong argument, regardless of the topic. The most important thing to know about the Argumentative Writing task prompt is that it will be a debatable issue that is not easily answered.
Below are some possible prompts you might encounter on the LSAT Argumentative Writing task:
Climate change: Is human activity responsible for climate change? Can humans take effective steps to decrease or halt climate change?
The death penalty: Is the death penalty effective in reducing crime? Is the death penalty a just punishment?
Gun control: Should gun control be stricter? Is gun violence a solvable problem?
Animal rights: Is it ethical to conduct medical research on animals? Should animals be used for research and/or entertainment?
The impact of social media: Does social media make us better connected and happier? Are there harmful downsides to society from social media?
Poverty: Are there effective solutions to ending poverty?
Healthcare: Should healthcare be universal? Is healthcare a right for all citizens?
Education reform: How can schools focus on improving lower reading and math scores? What reforms would effectively improve public education?
Government: Is the Electoral College outdated?
Free speech: Should there be limits on free speech? If limits are imposed on free speech, how should they be decided?
Technology: Will technology eventually replace human workers? Should technology's role in everyday life be expanded or reduced?
Mental health: How can mental health be better addressed? What are the most effective solutions for dealing with mental health challenges?
How Long Should My Argumentative Essay Be?
There is no one correct answer to this question, but it's worth remembering that you have 50 minutes to complete the Argumentative Writing task. The first 15 minutes are intended to be used for organizing your thoughts and outlining points you want to make in your essay. Questions are provided to assist you in completing a thorough analysis of the information you have been given. You then have 35 minutes to write your essay.
According to LSAC, there is no word or space limit when writing your essay. Instead of focusing on a specific word count, you should instead focus on crafting a well-written and cogent argument while being mindful of the time limit. With this task, the quality of your argument will always be more important than the quantity of words you use to make your point. Most essays range from 2-4 paragraphs long, but again, a well-organized essay with a clear thesis, supporting arguments, and a defined conclusion will serve you far better than a long, unfocused, or rambling essay.
One of the best ways to prepare for the Argumentative Writing task is to choose a prompt, set a timer, and write an essay in 35 minutes. The more you do this, the more familiar you will become with creating a complete essay in the given time frame, which will make the Writing task easier and more familiar when you take it for real. You can simply search online for "argumentative writing prompts," write them down on scraps of paper, put the paper in a jar or bowl, and then select one at random when you are ready to practice your essay writing skills.