LNAT Essay Questions

  • What Is The LNAT Essay?
  • How Do The Universities Assess The Essay?
  • Tips To Prepare For The LNAT Essay Task
  • Example LNAT Essay Questions

What Is The LNAT Essay?

In Section B, you are asked to write one essay in 40 minutes from a list of three proposed subjects. This is designed to test your ability to construct a compelling argument and articulate it in a clear and persuasive manner. The subject matter typically covers topical issues in society, politics, philosophy, or ethical debates.

The essay should demonstrate a strong understanding of the subject matter and a critical approach to the issue. This includes the ability to weigh different viewpoints, provide relevant examples or evidence, and derive a reasoned conclusion. Clarity of expression, good grammar, and correct spelling are also important.

How Do The Universities Assess The Essay?

The specific criteria can vary among universities, but commonly, they look for the following in the essay:

  1. Argumentation: Can you construct a coherent, persuasive argument? This includes your ability to present your points logically, use evidence effectively, and address counter-arguments or alternative viewpoints.
  2. Understanding of the Topic: Do you demonstrate a clear understanding of the issue at hand? This can be shown through your discussion of the subject matter and the points you choose to raise.
  3. Critical Thinking: Are you able to think critically and analytically about the issue? This includes your ability to scrutinize different viewpoints and question assumptions.
  4. Clarity of Expression: How well do you express your ideas? This includes your grammar, spelling, punctuation, and general use of English.
  5. Organization: Is your essay well-organized? A clear introduction, logical progression of ideas, and a strong conclusion are signs of a well-structured essay.

Remember, the LNAT essay is not just about your knowledge of the topic, but rather how you apply that knowledge in formulating a balanced, reasoned argument.

It's important to note that universities will use the LNAT score in conjunction with other factors (such as academic performance, personal statement, references, and interview performance, if applicable) to make a decision about your application.

LNAT Essays

Tips To Prepare For The LNAT Essay Task

1

Understand the Test

Familiarize yourself with the format of the LNAT, particularly the essay section. You should know what to expect and understand the skills that the essay is designed to test.
2

Brush up Your Writing Skills

The essay section of the LNAT tests your ability to write a coherent, logical, and persuasive argument. Make sure your writing is clear, concise, and free of grammatical and spelling errors. Good writing often comes from practice. Consider writing essays on various topics and get feedback if possible.
3

Practice Critical Thinking

The LNAT essay requires you to critically analyze a topic and develop a well-structured argument. Practice this skill by debating issues with friends, or write practice essays on controversial topics.
4

Keep Up with Current Affairs

The essay topics often deal with current, controversial issues. Reading a reputable newspaper or news site regularly can help you familiarize yourself with these issues and the various arguments surrounding them.
5

Plan Your Essay

Before you start writing, take a few minutes to plan out your essay. Decide on your argument, the points you'll raise, and the order in which you'll raise them. Having a clear plan can help you write a more coherent and well-structured essay.
6

Practice Under Test Conditions

Try to simulate the test environment when you practice. This includes timing yourself. You'll have 40 minutes to write your essay in the actual LNAT, so practice writing essays in that time frame.
7

Revise and Review

Look at sample essays and critique them. What makes an essay strong or weak? How can it be improved? Doing this can help you understand what makes a good essay and avoid common mistakes.
8

Understand Different Perspectives

Often, essay prompts are based on issues that have multiple viewpoints. Make sure to show that you understand these different perspectives, even if you don't agree with them.
9

Don’t Sit on the Fence

While it's important to consider multiple perspectives, make sure your essay has a clear stance. Your argument should be clear and consistent.
10

Proofread Your Work

Always leave a few minutes at the end to proofread your work. This can help you catch and correct any mistakes or unclear phrasing.

Remember, the most effective preparation is consistent and regular practice over time. Don't expect to perfect your skills overnight. Start preparing as early as possible, and work on improving steadily.

Example LNAT Essay Questions

LNAT does not release the exact questions that have appeared on past tests. However, here are some hypothetical examples of the type of essay prompts you might encounter. These questions typically require you to take a stance on a controversial or moral issue, presenting an argument that justifies your position.

  1. "Should a democratic society tolerate speech that promotes hatred or incites violence?"
  2. "Is it justified for a government to restrict civil liberties in the name of national security?"
  3. "Is capital punishment ever morally justifiable?"
  4. "Should governments have the power to regulate content on social media platforms?"
  5. "Is it ethical to use animals in medical research?"
  6. "Are governments justified in imposing strict measures to combat climate change even if such measures may negatively impact economic growth?"
  7. "Is there a moral obligation for wealthy nations to assist poorer ones?"
  8. "Is it necessary for society to impose limitations on scientific research and why?"
  9. "Does the right to privacy outweigh the public’s right to know?"
  10. "Do the benefits of artificial intelligence outweigh the potential risks?"

Remember, in your response, you should develop a clear argument, consider and address counter-arguments or alternative viewpoints, provide relevant examples, and draw a reasoned conclusion.

For more help with writing high scoring LNAT essays and for more LNAT section B practice questions have a look at our LNAT course... click here.

LNAT Course