When a student pitches the best law review article topic you've ever heard.

(5) Citing outdated law. Many law school classes explain the development of doctrine over time. That said, you should answer ?s using current law unless you're asked about older stuff. If you feel compelled to use historical material, explain why it's good/relevant to do so.

(4) Missing half of a two-part question. Double check the question! Does it say answer X *and* Y? Double check the portion of the exam that's relevant to the question. Did a party argue X *and* Y? Did you only talk about X?

(3) Making up rules of law from whole cloth. I get it, you're taking your final. You're desperate. You figure, I'll just make up some law. But it never works b/c your prof *knows the law*. So, maybe, add more analysis to areas you do know? Or spot the issue/conflict and move on?

(2) Memorizing key words but not what those key words mean. Students will offer an on-point word but then go completely off the rails. If your class has key words, write them on an index card. Pop an explanation/example on the other side. Boom. You've got flashcards.

(1) Making up facts. Your essay might be set in the real world, but that's not an invite to use your lived experience to answer the question. The test is how you use the *facts you are given* and tie those to the *law you have learned.*

Grading is done for the semester and I thought I'd share a few thoughts about common mistakes that law students make on their essay exams. 🧵

Well holy fuck. I should've finished the show before tweeting. I am wrung out. To @Hannahgadsby, I heard, felt, and understood your story. If you were here right now, I'd give you the biggest hug. I'll just sent one over the internet instead.

Kid and I are trading sad songs. I play Somebody by @depechemode.
Kid: This isn’t sad. The lyrics are sweet.
Me: You have to imagine you’re a 13yo girl who, with all the drama and hormones of her age, knows in her heart of hearts that no one will ever love her like that.