In contrast to other disciplines in the University, there are customs and traditions to approach law questions.

It's amusing that the lecturer's grading system or marking scheme perceive you as a lawyer rather than a law student. So during the process of writing exams, it is customary to adopt a formal tone akin to addressing a judge. 

Law exam questions are presented in the format of both problem questions and essay questions.

The problem questions are presented in the form of a story, case, or scenario. They are hypothetical in nature and are often referred to as problem questions due to their indirect nature. Although the essay questions are presented in the typical format, there is a specific approach to tackling them.

The IRAC method is the most effective and wide acceptable formula for attacking a problem question. This formula has successfully overcome and triumphed over the challenges in law exams. 

It is a term formed from the initials;

✅ISSUES 

✅RULES

✅APPLICATION and

✅CONCLUSION 

ISSUES: 

Identifying the problem or issue(s) is the main focal point, as failing to understand the area of conflict in the question would make your entire answers ineffective. It is important to frame your issue as a question that requires solutions. For instance using the phrase ‘Whether or not’. Including the names of the parties involved in the scenario is crucial as it enhances the reliability of your answers. 

This is an ideal format in highlighting Issues, “From the hypothetical scenario painted above the issue for determination is whether or not the Penal technique is most preferable to address the conflict in the republic of Malabor.” 

While you have the option to utilize different vocabulary and format, it is important to consistently incorporate legal terminology.

RULES: 

The law would always have something to say about every aspect of life, which is otherwise known as the ‘General rules’. To achieve a beautiful approach. Firstly, defined the concepts in the issues raised. Always backup your assertions with a judicial or statutory authority. For instance when providing a definition for an 'Offense,' refer to Section 2 of the criminal code. You also address your submission to “whether or not?”.  

In this paragraph you have to write enough about the law.. When writing, follow a hierarchy of concepts by moving from the general to the specific, use building blocks for writing the rule of law by considering the;

* Definitions

* Elements 

* Exceptions to the general rule

* Limitations to the rule

* Defenses etc.

Example of an ideal Rules. ‘It is a trite principle of law….’ or ‘It is apposite to define the term Penal technique…’ 

APPLICATION.

Now it is time to connect the dot. I mostly refer the application as a marriage ceremony between the issues and rules. While every steps in this formula is essential, the Application is more of the body of the work and the level of your knowledge and understanding to the principle you early stated. This is where you examine the inferences/implications raised by the facts in light of the rule. 

The focal question for concern is

1. Why do you think the issues you have raised is correct?

2. "What is your opinion on how the authorities substantiate the principle of law?"

You will frequently make use of the term "Because" and "since" it will forces you to make the connection between rule and fact.

Conclusion:

Always bear in mind that you are addressing a judge as a lawyer, so you have to make a submission and before making any statements in your conclusion, revisit the initial question. The scenario will always conclude with a subsidiary question. For example …advice the parties, what is the preferred social method to adopt?,  etc. Your conclusion should carefully address it and your opinion should always be on point of law.

END

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