The LSAT writing sample catches many test-takers off guard. Most students focus on Logic Games and Reading Comprehension, only to realize they’ve neglected this crucial component.
Sure, it’s unscored, but law schools read it. They use it to assess your writing skills and decision-making ability.
Regardless, you can prepare for it. With the right approach and practice, anyone can write a strong response that impresses admissions committees.
This blog breaks down practical strategies and real examples to help you tackle the LSAT writing section with confidence.
You’ll learn what law schools look for, how to structure your argument, and strategies to use.
What is the LSAT Argumentative Writing?
The LSAT writing section is a 35-minute exercise where you pick between two options. Both choices have pros and cons.
Your job? Make a case for one option while showing why it’s better than the other.
You’ll get a decision prompt and two possible choices. Each option comes with specific criteria to consider. Neither choice is right nor wrong. What matters is how well you argue your position.
This section isn’t scored numerically. But law schools receive a copy with your application. They read it to see how you think and write under pressure.
You’ll take it online after completing the multiple-choice sections. You can write it on your computer using a basic word processor.
No spell-check or grammar tools, though.
Evaluation of LSAT Argumentative Writing
Law schools don’t score your writing sample with numbers. Instead, they evaluate it based on specific qualities that matter in legal writing.
Here’s what they look for:
| Evaluation Criteria | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Clear Position | You pick one option and stick with it throughout your response. No fence-sitting allowed. |
| Strong Reasoning | Your arguments make sense and connect logically. Each point supports your chosen option. |
| Organized Structure | Your writing flows smoothly from introduction to conclusion. Readers can follow your thinking easily. |
| Consideration of Both Sides | You acknowledge the other option’s benefits but explain why your choice is still better. |
| Writing Quality | Your sentences are clear and free of significant grammatical errors. The language is professional. |
Proven Strategies & Tips to Ace the LSAT Argumentative Writing
Preparing for the LSAT writing sample doesn’t have to be complicated. These tested strategies will help you write a strong, persuasive response that stands out to admissions committees.
- Read the prompt carefully – Spend the first few minutes understanding what the decision-maker needs and what criteria matter most.
- Choose quickly – Don’t waste time deciding which option to pick. Either choice works fine if you argue it well.
- Outline before writing – Jot down your main points in the first five minutes. This keeps your argument organized and focused.
- Address both options – Acknowledge why the other choice has merit, then explain why yours is better for the situation.
- Use specific examples – Reference details from the prompt to support your points. This shows you’ve read carefully and thought critically.
- Keep it simple – Use clear, direct language. Avoid trying to sound overly formal or legal. Plain English works best.
- Save time to proofread – Reserve the last five minutes to catch typos and fix awkward sentences. Clean writing matters.
Prompts for LSAT Writing Sample
Practice makes perfect, so working through sample prompts helps you get comfortable with the format and timing.
You can find official practice materials on LawHub, LSAC’s official prep platform.
They offer a free sample writing prompt to get you started. If you want more practice, LawHub Advantage provides additional official prompts and prep materials.
Here are some realistic prompts to try:
Prompt 1: College Curriculum Decision
A college dean must decide on a new general education requirement. Using the facts below, write an argument for one option based on these criteria: student preparation and institutional resources.
Option A requires all students to take a career-focused internship course. This gives students real work experience and helps with job placement. However, it requires hiring new staff and building employer partnerships.
Option B requires all students to complete a liberal arts seminar on critical thinking. This strengthens analytical skills valued by employers. The college already has qualified professors to teach it, and no new resources are needed.
Prompt 2: Company Work Policy
A tech company CEO must choose a work arrangement for employees. Using the facts below, write an argument for one policy based on these criteria: employee satisfaction and company productivity.
Option A allows complete remote work from anywhere. Employees save commute time and have flexible schedules. But the company faces challenges with team collaboration and company culture.
Option B requires office work three days per week. This builds stronger team connections and makes meetings easier. However, employees lose flexibility and spend time commuting.
Prompt 3: Environmental Regulation
A city council must decide on new environmental rules for local businesses. Using the facts below, write an argument for one approach based on these criteria: ecological impact and economic effects.
Option A implements strict emission standards immediately. This reduces pollution quickly and improves public health. But small businesses may struggle with compliance costs, and some might close.
Option B phases in moderate standards over five years. This gives businesses time to adjust and protects jobs. However, environmental improvements will come more slowly, and air quality remains poor longer.
To get more information, prompts, and practice papers, click here.
Finishing It Up
Your LSAT writing sample is your chance to show law schools how you think and argue.
It won’t make or break your application, but a strong response adds value to your overall profile. Start practicing now with the prompts we shared. Time yourself and get comfortable with the format.
Remember, clarity beats complexity every time. Pick a position, support it well, and acknowledge the other side. Keep your sentences short and your logic tight.
What’s your next step? Set aside an hour this week to write a practice response. Then review it honestly.
