p. 1137. Adapting IRAC to ‘discuss’ questions
- S I StrongS I StrongManley O. Hudson Professor of Law Solicitor, Supreme Court of England and Wales; Solicitor, Ireland; Attorney, New York, Illinois and Missouri
Abstract
This chapter explains how the IRAC method of legal essay writing can be adapted for use with ‘discuss’ type questions, focusing on the following topics: what a ‘discuss’ question is asking you to do; how to structure the ‘discuss’ essay; and how to adapt each of the four IRAC steps (issue, rule, application, conclusion) to ‘discuss’ questions. The discussion also identifies the three basic types of ‘discuss’ questions (legal theory, legal reform and legal history) and describes the best way to approach each particular category of questions and the best types of legal authorities to introduce to do well. Tips on writing legal essays and exams are given.
