28/01/2026
You can be ready for your law exam and still lose marks because of the essay questions. This is usually why⬇️
Your understanding of the keyword.
In law exams, the content is important.
But the instruction word tells you how the examiner wants the answer, which is the direction it should go.
Ignore it, and you lose marks, even with good content.
It's almost exam season for some of us, so let's just try and get these ones right.
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1. "Discuss"
This is the most common, and most abúsed as well.
How to answer:
• Explain the concept fully
• Present different views
• Support with cases and authorities
• End with a conclusion
Think: explain + argue + conclude.
DON'T TELL STORIES! YOU DON'T HAVE ALL DAY!!
2. "Examine"
This is explanation + assessment.
How to answer:
• Explain the concept
• Show how it operates in law. Based on how you've been taught.
• Point out strengths, weaknesses, or scope
Key thing:
You are writing for your Lecturer. So, If he took a stand when teaching, follow suit. If not, strike a balance.
3. "Analyse"
This is about breaking things down logically.
How to answer:
• Break the topic into parts
• Explain each part separately
• Link ideas clearly
• End with a reasoned conclusion
• Dissect, don't summarise.
4. "Critically discuss / examine / analyse"
This is the Oga of them all!
How to answer:
• Explain the question and key concepts
• Show different viewpoints
• Identify gaps, problems, or controversies
• Suggest reforms (briefly)
• Use legal reasoning, not emotional criticism
5. “Explain”
Simple, but many still fail it.
What the examiner wants:
• Clear understanding
• Logical presentation
How to answer:
• Define terms
• Explain step by step
• Use simple authorities where necessary
6. "Outline"
This is not an essay marathon.
How to answer:
• List the key points
• Explain each briefly
• Use headings or numbered points
Overwriting here wastes time.
7. "Distinguish"
This tests comparison skills.
How to answer:
• Define both concepts
• Compare them side by side. Use words like "while", "unlike", "in contrast" etc
• Use cases if necessary.
Do not mix them up.
8. "State"
• Mention the facts or rules briefly
• No explanations unless asked
9. "Enumerate"
This one is often misunderstood.
How to answer:
• List the points clearly
• Number them
• Add one-line explanations only if necessary
Do not write long paragraphs or argue.
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Writing plenty is not the same as writing correctly. Follow instructions and you'll be fine. There's a reason your lecturer used the word.
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