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Sample LNAT Essay: Why is Theft Wrong?

Posted by Catherine Robinson on October 14, 2023

Hello! My name is Catherine Robinson, and I offer one-to-one LNAT tuition that covers both sections of the exam. More information on my tuition can be found by clicking here .

Scroll to the bottom of the page to find the sample LNAT essay on why theft is wrong.

What is the LNAT essay?

The LNAT essay is a 40-minute written task that assesses your ability to construct a persuasive argument. It is an opportunity for you to showcase your critical thinking, analytical skills, and ability to communicate effectively.

Understand the question

Before you start writing, take the time to carefully read and understand the essay question. Identify the key terms and concepts, and make sure you have a clear understanding of what is being asked. This will help you structure your essay and ensure that you address the question directly.

Plan your essay

Planning is crucial when it comes to writing a successful LNAT essay. Take a few minutes to brainstorm ideas, create an outline, and organise your thoughts. This will help you stay focused and ensure that your essay has a logical flow.

Structure your essay

A well-structured essay is easier to read and understand. Start with an introduction that provides an overview of your argument and sets the tone for the rest of the essay. Then, develop your argument in the body paragraphs, using evidence and examples to support your points. Finally, conclude your essay by summarising your main points and restating your thesis.

Use evidence and examples

When writing your LNAT essay, it is important to support your arguments with evidence and examples. This will make your essay more persuasive and convincing. Use relevant facts, statistics, and real-life examples to back up your claims and strengthen your argument. 

Be concise and clear

In a time-limited task like the LNAT essay, it is important to be concise and clear in your writing. Avoid unnecessary repetition and wordiness. Use clear and straightforward language to convey your ideas effectively. It is much better to write in plain and simple language than convoluted flowery language.

Practice, practice, practice

Like any skill, essay writing requires practice. Take the time to practice writing LNAT essays under timed conditions. This will help you improve your time management skills and help familiarise yourself with the format and requirements of the test.

Seek feedback

After writing practice essays, seek feedback from teachers, tutors, or peers. They can provide valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.

Example essay: Why is theft wrong?

Why is theft morally wrong? This question has puzzled philosophers and ethicists for centuries. Some argue that theft can be justified under certain circumstances, while others vehemently oppose this view. One school of thought argues that theft is morally acceptable in cases of extreme necessity, where survival is at stake. However, this view is misguided because it fails to consider the broader implications of theft, the importance of property rights, and the potential harm it causes. Therefore, it will instead be argued that theft is inherently morally wrong.

Theft, fundamentally, is an infringement on the property rights of individuals. Property rights are the cornerstone of a just society, allowing individuals to enjoy the fruits of their labour, feel secure in their belongings, and facilitate economic exchange. Theft directly violates these rights, undermining the trust and security upon which societies are built. It disrupts the social contract by disregarding the basic principle that each person's property should be respected. One argument in favour of theft posits that it can be morally justifiable in cases of extreme necessity, where one steals to survive. However, this argument can be refuted. While it is empathetic to acknowledge the desperation of those who steal to feed their families, it is essential to consider the bigger picture. Allowing theft under these circumstances risks undermining the very property rights that ensure social order. Instead of promoting a culture of respect for individual rights, it sets a dangerous precedent that can lead to a breakdown of societal norms.

Theft is not just a breach of property rights; it also erodes the trust and social harmony upon which communities thrive. It creates an atmosphere of fear, suspicion, and insecurity. When individuals cannot trust that their property will be safeguarded, they are less likely to invest in their communities or engage in commerce. This erosion of trust can lead to a decline in economic and social well-being. Some argue that theft is a means of addressing economic inequality, taking from the rich to provide for the poor. However, this argument is problematic. While economic inequality is a serious concern, theft is not a sustainable solution. Addressing inequality should be achieved through legal and ethical means, such as social welfare programs and progressive taxation. Theft only exacerbates the problem by promoting a culture of violence and insecurity.

Lastly, theft has moral implications that extend beyond the act itself. It not only harms the victim but also has detrimental effects on the thief. Engaging in theft can lead to a degradation of one's own moral character, fostering a cycle of unethical behaviour. Some contend that theft is a form of protest against perceived injustices, acting as a mechanism for the marginalised to challenge the status quo. However, the moral implications of theft must be considered. While it is crucial to address injustices, resorting to theft perpetuates a culture of lawlessness and chaos. Constructive change can be achieved through legal avenues, peaceful protests, and advocacy, rather than resorting to criminal acts.

In conclusion, theft is wrong because it infringes on property rights, erodes trust and social harmony, and carries moral implications for both the victim and the perpetrator. While there may be arguments in favour of theft under extreme circumstances or as a response to perceived injustices, these views fail to consider the broader ethical implications and the importance of preserving a just and orderly society. Theft, in most cases, is a breach of our shared social contract, and its moral wrongness is undeniable.

Want help writing LNAT essays that will impress the admissions tutor? I will guide you through a step-by-step method to writing high quality LNAT essays. Find out more information here .

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Hints and tips

Multiple choice question hints

You can skip multiple choice questions and come back to them by marking them for review. Remember, though, that you need to go back to them before the multiple choice part of the test is over.  You can’t go back to them after the essay.

You may like to start by skim-reading or “speed-reading” the multiple-choice passages. But then go back and read them slowly and deliberately, and think about the exact meaning of every sentence. Note key words and phrases on your whiteboard if it helps you to concentrate.

Don’t read anything in, and don’t read anything out. You are not being asked to surmise. And the questioner, not you, is the best judge of relevance. So take everything in the passage at face-value and give it all even-handed attention.

Don’t ever rely on what you know from other sources in answering the multiple-choice questions. They are always questions about the passage itself. If it contains falsehoods, never mind – treat them as true for the purpose of the test.

Accept that one (and only one) of the answers to each question is correct. All the questions have been thoroughly checked. If there are matters of degree, the question is there to test how you handle matters of degree. If there are ambiguities, we are trying to find out how you cope with ambiguities. The solution is always there in the passage.

Remember that one of the hallmarks of a good multiple-choice question is the inclusion of one or more answer options that are wrong but almost right. Work hard to find them and eliminate them. Questions like this are not tricks. They are there to test whether your powers of discrimination are fine-grained (i.e. can distinguish propositions that are very close together) or coarse-grained (i.e. can distinguish propositions only when they are quite far apart). There are no trick questions on the LNAT.

There is a point for each right answer. But none are deducted for wrong answers. So don’t leave blanks. If you really can’t work out the answer, it’s better to eliminate the answers you know to be wrong and guess from the ones that are left.

Unlike some multiple-choice tests the LNAT does not put great emphasis on speed. We have designed it so that you have a reasonable amount of time to work through all the questions patiently. Pacing yourself correctly is one of the main things you can learn by  taking our practice tests .

We don’t care whether you have any data about the topic. An argument based on assumptions can be just as good as an argument based on information. But you need to say what your assumptions are. (e.g. “I will assume that the demand for health care is growing, and will continue to grow, out of proportion to supply. That being so, what can be done to ensure that rich countries don’t monopolize it?”)

We are also not very interested in your opinions. We are interested in whether you can defend a position – which may or may not be your own personal position. Sometimes you may do better if you attempt to defend a position that you do not agree with personally. This may make your argument tighter.

Economy of expression is important. Our ideal LNAT essay is 500-600 words long. If you write much less than this your essay will be too short to be evaluated properly and you are unlikely to do well. But a very long essay will also put you at a disadvantage. This panel of text (from the top of the page to the word “disadvantage on the left) is already about 600 words long. It was typed in about five minutes using two-fingered typing. You have 40 minutes to type a similar amount. So you have lots of time to think, organise your thoughts, compose, and edit. You should try and remove repetition, surplus words and digressions. This kind of discipline will be rewarded.

Don’t sit on the fence. Don’t say that each side in an argument has a point unless you go on to say  which  point each side has. It is perfectly all right to say that that one side is right about point 1, whereas the other side is right about point 2. It is also all right to say that, on closer inspection, the two sides are at cross-purposes and don’t really disagree. It is fence-sitting only if you say that they do disagree, that there is only one point of disagreement, and yet that they both have a point on that point. That makes no sense.

Don’t try to impress with fancy words or elaborate style. Be straightforward in your writing and your argument.

Read some sample essay answers here .

Advice from past candidates

Preparation

• ‘The more you practice the more you can understand what the questions are getting at’
• ‘Doing the practice was useful to get a feel for how the test would go. This was helpful because I knew what to expect. I didn’t feel that I could have prepared any more for it though as you don’t know what the questions are going to be. Reading newspapers is helpful for the essay part as you’ll have a wider knowledge of the world and be able to answer a question more easily, it will also help your essay writing.’
• ‘Read the sample paper on the internet site, seek advice from tutors at college or school and familiarise yourself with texts of a more advanced and complex nature.’
• ‘Read newspapers and learn to formulate opinions and express them succinctly. Also practice at being able to read subtle differences in things, for the multiple choice.’
• ‘Practice writing essays on subjects with which you are unfamiliar. This helps you to focus on the planning aspects of essay writing and the structure of the essay instead of getting too wrapped up in the subject detail.’
• ‘Perhaps read some difficult articles on topics of personal interest to familiarise with possibly difficult words that you may not understand out of context.’
• ‘Use the material and advice on the LNAT website. Familiarisation with typical content, format and timing was invaluable.’

During the test

• ‘Carefully read the instructions at the beginning of the test. I panicked half-way through the multiple choice section of the test and believed I only had half the actual time available to do this section.’
• ‘Stay calm and keep track of time during the test as it was very time pressured and it would be easy to mismanage your time and therefore not perform as well as you should.’
• ‘Try to keep to time on the multiple choice section and don’t over analyse the questions too much. I ran out of time on the multiple choice section and had to guess the last few which didn’t help my score. Also don’t panic or get unnerved by the timer.’
• ‘It sounds silly but thoroughly read the questions, everyone is likely to say it, but genuinely read every single word’

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The Durham Student

Writing the lnat: a student perspective.

• September 25, 2023

Introduction

One of the pivotal steps in pursuing a law degree at Durham University is taking the Law National Admissions Test, commonly known as the LNAT. This test plays a crucial role in helping universities assess your aptitude for the essential skills required to study law. Contrary to a common misconception, the LNAT doesn’t examine your knowledge of legal principles; rather, it evaluates your ability to think critically and communicate effectively. 

Understanding the LNAT

The LNAT is a two-part exam consisting of multiple-choice questions based on passages of text (Section A) and an essay (Section B).

Section A: Multiple-Choice Exam

In this part of the test, you’ll encounter passages of text followed by questions that gauge your comprehension, interpretation, analysis, synthesis, induction, and deduction skills. Your performance in Section A contributes to your LNAT score, which is marked out of 42. This section assesses your ability to extract information, read between the lines, and make reasoned judgments based on evidence.

Section B: Essay Writing

The second section of the LNAT involves writing an essay. While this part is not marked, it offers an opportunity to showcase your ability to construct a persuasive argument and arrive at a well-reasoned conclusion. Here, you can demonstrate your analytical and writing skills, which are vital in the study of law.

Preparing for the LNAT

Preparing for the LNAT might initially seem difficult, especially if you’re used to exams with clear mark schemes. However, a way to become familiar with the test’s style and format. Here are some practical tips to help you prepare effectively:

1. Review Sample Papers: Begin by studying sample LNAT papers available online. These resources provide insight into the types of passages and questions you’ll encounter. Work through them to get a feel for the test’s structure and difficulty level.

2. Practice Under Timed Conditions: Sitting a past LNAT paper under timed conditions is essential. This practice will help you gauge the time needed for each section, enhancing your time-management skills.

3. Read Widely: Engage in regular reading, especially newspapers. As you read, critically evaluate the issues presented. Consider the assumptions, sources of information, and logical conclusions. Challenge your ability to formulate counterarguments. This habit not only prepares you for the LNAT but also keeps you informed about current events, which is valuable for any aspiring law student.

4. Construct Practice Essays: Take time to write practice essays on a variety of topics. Focus on constructing coherent arguments and backing them up with evidence and logical reasoning.

Remember that the LNAT isn’t about what you already know about law; it’s about your ability to think critically, analyse information, and express your thoughts persuasively. By familiarizing yourself with the test format, practicing under timed conditions, and honing your analytical skills through reading and essay writing, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the LNAT.

Discover more

Our Law School is a world leader in legal education. We are ranked 5th in The Complete University Guide 2023 and 46th in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023, up from 49th in 2022.   

Our award-winning academic staff deliver a cutting-edge, research-led curriculum through small-group teaching that is much prized by employers. Our graduates go on to great things and include some of law’s leading figures, for example, current or previous members of the UK Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal, and Members of Parliament. 

Feeling inspired? Visit our Law School webpages to learn more about studying with us. 

Durham University is a top 100 world university. In the QS World University Rankings 2024, we were ranked 78th globally. 

Kimberly Chitifa

Hi! My name’s Kimberly and I am a Graduate Student Ambassador in Recruitment and Admissions. I studied Law, and was at Trevelyan College. My hobbies include trampolining, singing and playing guitar.

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UCL Faculty of Laws

LNAT Advice and Guidance

Find out more about the LNAT and how to prepare for the test

Book your LNAT test here.

Don't forget - All applicants to UCL Laws Undergraduate Programmes must take the LNAT  alongside their UCAS application.

All applicants to undergraduate degree programmes at UCL Laws must take the LNAT alongside the UCAS application. You must take the test  no later than  31 December 2023 (some universities have earlier deadlines).

Please note that applicants who register for the LNAT just before the registration deadline may experience difficulties obtaining an available test slot by 31 December 2023 due to high demand. We recommend registering and booking the test as early as possible to avoid this problem.

If you do not take the LNAT by the 31 December 2023 deadline, your application will be regarded as a late application, and therefore we will not be able to consider you for a place on one of our LLB degree programmes in the relevant admissions cycle, even if your original application was submitted by the UCAS deadline of 31 January 2024.

Test Centres

You can register to take the LNAT at a test centre near you: the LNAT has 500 test centres in 165 countries around the world.

If you are unable to take the LNAT because there are no test centres in your home country, or your local test centres are closed due to an enforced lockdown relating to COVID-19, please contact [email protected] before 31 December 2023 and include your UCAS ID number so we can make appropriate checks. We will be able to provide an alternative test if you are unable to book a test at an official test centre.

LNAT bursaries

LNAT have a bursary system under which they waive the test fee altogether for those in receipt of certain state benefits in their country of residence. This applies to UK and EU applicants only, sitting at UK and EU test centres only.

For more information please visit the LNAT bursaries website .

Reasonable adjustments

If you require special arrangements for the LNAT please follow the instructions on the LNAT website well in advance of the deadline. If you are struggling to get a test arranged, please get in touch with us ahead of the LNAT deadline.

Extenuating circumstances

Before the test If you feel unwell (mental or physical) before your test, we suggest that you reschedule your test rather than sitting your LNAT examination. If you decide to take the test when you are unwell, we will have no way of knowing how you would have done if you had not been unwell and will therefore not be able to take into consideration your circumstances.

To confirm, if you attend the exam you are declaring you are fit to do so and the mark you achieve will stand. You will not be permitted to receive any additional consideration from UCL Laws relating to that assessment unless you fall into the category below.

During the test If there is an incident while you are sitting the test (e.g. a fire alarm or you suddenly fall ill), the test centre will do what it can to minimise the disruption (and to let you finish your test if you are well). The incident will be logged and you will be given an incident number by the test centre staff. Once you have your incident number you need to contact the LNAT Consortium at once so that the incident can be investigated and, where appropriate, a resit test offered (please request a resit if your test was negatively affected).

If you were unable to continue with your test due to a sudden illness, you will need to request an approved resit from LNAT. We will then disregard your first attempt and use your resit score, even if your original score is higher than your resit.

More information on test day problems can be found on the LNAT website .

About the LNAT

The LNAT measures the reasoning skills at the heart of legal education, including:

• comprehension
• interpretation

The LNAT is a two-part test. The first part includes multiple-choice questions based on passages of text, and the second part requires you to answer one of three essay questions. The LNAT is a computer-based test and lasts for two hours and 15 minutes.

When you have completed the test, your scores from the multiple-choice section are checked by computer, and a mark out of 42 is created. This mark is known as the LNAT score. Your LNAT score and your essay will be sent to participating universities, including UCL. Your results from the LNAT are then used to supplement your university application and demonstrate your aptitude for studying undergraduate law.

You are advised to familiarise yourself with the style and the format of the test before you take it. The LNAT website provides lots of resources and information to help you prepare for the test and what to expect.

• Find out more about how to register and book a test on the LNAT website .

LNAT Guidance from UCL Laws 

Our top tips for preparing for the LNAT

1)  The test is designed to provide an assessment of a candidate’s potential for studying law. You should read the information available on the LNAT website , including the ‘ Guide to Preparing for the LNAT ’.

2) Practise, practise, practise.

• The best way to improve at anything is to practise, and the LNAT is no different. You are only allowed one attempt at the LNAT, so the more practise you do now the better prepared you will be. Start with small steps now.

3) The LNAT must be completed at a test centre, and this will be an unfamiliar place, using unfamiliar software. One of the best things you can do to familiarise yourself beforehand in order that you’re able to perform as your best without being unsettled by the environment is to use the official LNAT test simulator . This will familiarise you with the real LNAT as it will appear on screen during your LNAT test. You’ll be able to practise navigating the screens, ensuring you:

1) Don’t make any mistakes in navigation (such as ending the test too early!),

2) That you’re comfortable using the navigation so that you don’t need to spend time and your precious mental energy figuring it out on the day, and

3) Feel familiar with the environment and are therefore able to relax, as it’s something you’ve seen before.

That way you will be able to perform well in the test itself.

• As well as practising to learn about the test structure itself, you can also benefit from practising the individual components of the test, namely the multiple choice question section (95 minutes) and the essay component (40 minutes).
• The multiple choice section is divided into 12 sub sections; each sub section has between 3 and 4 questions giving 42 questions in total. Each question has only one correct answer.
• Improve your ability to read and comprehend complicated passages of text, at test speed..
• Get an understanding of how much time you need to allocate to answer the questions within the time limit.
• Be able to pace yourself and your reading time appropriately so that you don’t run out of time at the end.
• It’s better to have time to consider and answer all of the questions, than taking too long at the start and not having the time to properly consider the later questions.
• Don’t forget that if you are really struggling on a question, that it is OK to leave it and return at the end if you have time. Don’t let getting stuck on one question deflect your concentration from answering the others or dent your confidence. You are not expected to get full marks in this test.
• Don’t overanalyse the questions – they are not there to trick you. Do think carefully about every word in the question. What are you being asked? The answer is in the text.  

4) The LNAT essay provides a choice of three essay questions, you must select and answer one.

• The LNAT as a whole is designed to assess your verbal reasoning skills. Skills which are essential to the successful study of law.
• Verbal reasoning skills include comprehension, interpretation, analysis, synthesis, and deduction.
• The LNAT questions are based on short passages of text that you are given during the test.
• There is no subject-specific revision you can do for the LNAT questions. However, the passages of text will fall into these seven general categories: law, philosophy, politics, media, science, ethics, and education.In fact, relying too much on your own prior knowledge can be a false friend in this kind of assessment. Do not rely on what you know from other sources in answering the multiple-choice questions. The questions are always only about the passage itself. If there is something in the passage you disagree with or know to be incorrect, that does not matter, treat the passage as true for the purposes of the test.
• Once again, there is no prior knowledge of these areas that is required to be able to do well in the test, but a general awareness of current affairs is recommended, both by UCL and by the LNAT itself.

LNAT Essay Guidance

• Comprehensiveness and accuracy;
• Clarity of argument and expression;
• Integration of a range of arguments;
• Insight into the theoretical issues.
• ‘Read ahead – The more you know about current affairs, the greater the chance you will have of getting essay questions you understand and have some prior knowledge and familiarity with.
• Read a broadsheet newspaper. The advice provided on the LNAT website is worth repeating:

As you read -

• Think about the issues being raised;
• What assumptions are being made?
• What information is being relied on to draw which conclusion?
• How would you frame a counterargument?

Reading a quality daily newspaper will help you to be aware of the world around you. The LNAT essay topics will not be specifically about current affairs, and you will not be judged by what facts you know. But knowing how the world ticks, in general terms, will help you to write intelligently about a host of different topics.

• We have listed some newspapers below worth considering. You can read the online versions (usually freely available, although registration may be required). If you do read the online versions, remember to read the comment pieces as well as the news. (One question you might ask yourself: What exactly is the difference between news and comment? Is the contrast really apparent in practice?)
• The Economist
• The Financial Times
• The Guardian
• The Independent
• The Irish Times
• The New York Times
• The Scotsman
• The Sydney Morning Herald
• The Daily Telegraph
• The Washington Post

Pick the right question – Identify which question you have lots of knowledge about, not necessarily the one that you feel most strongly about. You will need to argue different points of view so make sure you have enough information to make a balanced discussion. Make sure you fully understand the question; if you don’t, pick another question.

• Plan the structure of your essay – You will only have 40 minutes, so before you start writing, think about what points you want to make and how you will create a concise, balanced argument on your chosen topic. Make sure the structure of your essay is logical and progresses in a structured way.
• Plan your time – A common mistake is for students to spend too much time on writing their introduction or making a single point. Allocate time to planning the essay structure, writing the introduction, middle, conclusion and to checking your work.
• Make your essay stand out – Consider what supporting evidence your argument has and how it can be used to best effect. Try not to be obvious and give ‘middle of the road’ bland answers. Instead, try to ‘think outside the box’ and demonstrate creativity in your arguments. Could the question itself be flawed?
• Evaluate any flaws or potential implications in the points you make. Don’t just give opinions – Without having an in-depth knowledge of a subject, it is easy to fall into the trap of using opinion to argue, rather than giving evidence. The essay is not looking for your assertions, but how you can build a case using the evidence you have available.’
• Practise writing essays under timed conditions on a computer, prior to sitting the test. Ask your teachers to set questions for you!

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Marking LNAT Essays

• Teaching Observations
• Tutorial Teaching: Preparation for Learning and Teaching (PLTO)

The Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT) is used as part of the admission process to help in the selection for the undergraduate law courses. The exam comprises of two parts: [1] multiple choice questions based on passages of text, and [2] an essay. Details about the LNAT test are available online:  http://www.lnat.ac.uk/  

The Law Faculty offers an LNAT essay marking training session in Week 2 of MT for graduate students and faculty members who will be marking applicant’s LNAT essays. The session lasts 90 minutes and consists of discussion about marking criteria followed by practical exercises using anonymised LNAT essays from previous years. 

The purpose of the scheme is to ensure consistency of marking and this can only be achieved if as many of those marking as possible attend this session. Consistency helps all of us, particularly when de-summoning candidates and when interviewing candidates from other colleges. 

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December 5th, 2023

Everything you need to know about the lnat for 2024 entry.

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Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

The LNAT which stands for The Law National Admission Test is an exam that all candidates who wish to apply to study law at most of the top universities in the UK, including the LLB Bachelor of Laws at LSE , must take as part of the admissions process. The LNAT score, alongside all other information on the UCAS application form, constitutes an important part of the admissions procedure and can make a difference in the final admissions decision. LNAT is a 2-hour 15-minute exam, divided into two sections A and B. The first part consists of 42 multiple-choice questions based on 12 passages of the academic text and it has to be completed in 95 minutes. Afterwards, candidates have 40 minutes to write an argumentative essay on one of the three available topics.

Students wishing to commence their legal studies at LSE in September 2024, or for deferred entries in September 2025 have to take the LNAT between 1 September 2023 and 31 December 2023 to be guaranteed equal consideration in the admissions process. Candidates should register with Pearson VUE on the LNAT website which is the test administrator, and take the exam at one of their test centres located in the UK or overseas. Each candidate can only sit the test once per application cycle, which is why it is important to spend some time to prepare and develop a strategy which will allow you to ace the exam and secure admission to study law at your dream university.

LNAT is a critical thinking test, which does not require prior knowledge of the law, and its focus is on logical reasoning, attention to detail and argumentation. Since there is no precise material you have to study for the test, preparation for the LNAT may appear quite tricky, however, there are some ways in which you can maximize your chances of scoring high. If LSE is your dream university, your primary focus should be the multiple-choice section of the LNAT. For most applicants, LSE admissions will only consider part A of the test, and the essay will usually not be considered. Check our website for more information on the LNAT entry requirement .

Below I present some of my tips to score well on section A of the test.

In section A, you will be presented with a set of 12 text passages from different academic backgrounds you might not have seen or studied before, which is why preparation for it is not very straightforward. However being a well-read, curious person would certainly put you in an advantageous position. What helped me to score high on the test was actively engaging with different journals, articles and books which deepened my understanding of different issues, but also helped me to become faster and more efficient at reading academic texts. Regularly reading non-fiction, for example, opinion sections of popular newspapers and thinking critically about the points raised in the articles afterwards, will benefit you on exam day.

One of the most valuable tips for acing section A of the LNAT is regularly practising the types of questions that appear on the exam. You can find a lot of sample papers on the official website of the LNAT, which will allow you to accommodate yourself with the exam format. Another option, which I’d recommend is buying an exercise book with examples of LNAT questions and explanations of the answers. This will allow you to practice and understand your mistakes and can be extremely useful in learning how the questions are structured. While practising 12 passages at once daily may not be achievable in a busy study week, trying to do at least a few passages with a timer on, will allow you to prepare well for the test and reduce the anxiety on the exam day.

About the author

My name is Zosia, and I am a first-year undergraduate student at LSE, studying LLB in Laws. I am an international student from Poland, and my passions include reading, writing, travelling and participating in all kinds of sports.

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How important is the LNAT

Naturally, the competition for places offered at each LNAT university is fierce, given the academic reputation of these institutions and the quality of teaching which their names commit to. LNAT is one component which is used in assessing the candidate’s application, but it can play different roles in the admission process of each university.

Here we will discern between how different universities use the LNAT multiple-choice score and their different approaches to the LNAT essay, to give you some understanding of how important it is to do well in the LNAT which is a question on a lot of students’ minds.

Based on the information you are about to read below, Arbitio serves students with preparation materials and environment aimed for excelling both in the multiple choice and essay components of the test. We believe that, ultimately, an above the average LNAT score and an impressive essay can significantly increase the chances of an application being successful and it’s borne out of the correlation between our students’ LNAT scores and offers data.

LNAT score is sometimes used as a gatekeeper – it determines whether your application progresses onto the next stage of assessment.

LNAT universities are often notoriously oversubscribed for the number of places which they are able to offer on their Law courses. This is why some applicants to offer-holder ratios are so high, for example UCL on average only making offers to approx. 20% of its applicants for the Law LLB (M100) (figure consistent for every year 2013-2017) and London School of Economics 16.8% for the 2017-2018 cohort. Further, since there is a significant crossing over with Oxbridge applicants, these figures should be contextualised within a narrower pool of candidates. ( Sources for this data )

Some universities use the LNAT score of the multiple-choice component in the following way: to decide whether or not to progress the applicant onto the next stage of their admissions process. The universities which adapt this stage-based approach are University of Oxford and University College London (UCL).

University of Oxford firstly considers your academic achievements and the LNAT score together to decide on which candidates to shortlist for the interview stage. After the interview, the admissions tutor considers all components of your application holistically in the final decision stage – including the LNAT score, essay, academic achievements, Personal Statement and interview performance together – in deciding to whether make an offer of place. It goes without saying that you should and want to put in the best application you can, including your LNAT. Having said that, it is your interview which will speak volumes to the college tutors.

UCL also follows a very clear-cut step-by-step process for its applicants. Firstly, it considers the UCAS exam grades and predictions, if this passes the threshold then its admissions look at the LNAT score form the multiple-choice component of the test. Only if the score is considered to be high enough will then the whole application progress to an Admissions tutor. The Admissions tutor will then read the LNAT essay and the remaining components of an applicant’s submission (namely the Personal Statement and the Academic reference) to make the final decision.

UCL openly states that it places high importance in its selections: “The essay carries considerable weight in the selection process at UCL”.

In this stage-by-stage approach, the LNAT score acts as a real gatekeeper of your application’s progress and, conversely, it could bar it from further consideration at an early stage if the LNAT score is not considered to be high enough.

Further, remember that a statistical approach is one side of the coin – we know of many students that, for instance, do badly on the essay but excel on the score and receive offers from UCL. Whereas Oxford law admissions data for individuals show interesting results on one’s chances with regards to essay and score, when categorised for below average, third quartile (above average), and top quartile (excellent) – you can see this in detail in our University Scores and Requirements article.

In the context of the average score for the cohort being 22, notice the dramatic increase to your chances of getting an interview when you manage to beat the average (indeed, no mean feat!) and borders on near guarantee if you truly manage to excel with those extra few marks!

LNAT is sometimes used as the determining factor that ‘makes or breaks’ an application

In the event of receiving a high number of candidates who prove similarly likely to be able to meet the grade requirements of the course, LNAT can be used as the deciding factor in differentiating between those otherwise similar candidates and who will receive an offer.

This admission tactic, for instances, is openly stated to be applied by University of Glasgow and University of Nottingham.

For example, for the 2018-2019 cohort for the Common Law LLB course, University of Glasgow received a very large pool of candidates with similar A-level (or equivalent) grades and used the LNAT score to determine which candidates received an offer . Likewise, University of Nottingham uses a cut-off score, meaning that candidates below a certain LNAT score are not considered. Its admissions openly state that “LNAT is a component used to distinguish between otherwise similar candidates”.

Of course, each admissions cycle is different from the other, and University of Glasgow is not openly committed to this strategy of admissions unless facing high application numbers once again. But you can never be sure of what your own year’s cohort of applications will be like and so it is best to build all the stakes in your favour and do well in the LNAT in case its score is used in this decisive manner.

In short, if you happen to apply in a year where there is a high number of highly-achieving candidates in exams, then your LNAT performance may be the factor that absolutely decides your application at those particular universities.

Although Universities of Glasgow and University of Nottingham are the only LNAT universities who openly commit to this absolutist strategy, other universities are also within their right to opt for this strategy any year when facing a high number of candidates who appear similar on paper, subject to communication. Because of this nature of admissions, the LNAT score in the multiple-choice component may always become the determining factor of your application.

“The role of LNAT is to help us to distinguish between large numbers of similarly qualified applicants” (Nottingham University, 2020)

LNAT always contributes as a component of a holistically assessed application

LSE, University of Bristol and Durham University commit to assessing their candidates based on a holistic assessment of each application. This means that every component of an application is looked at together (UCAS grades, Personal Statement, Academic reference and the LNAT) and these can be weighed against each other. For example, a better LNAT score may mean that a candidate with lower academic grades is still considered and vice versa, a candidate with a lower LNAT score but higher academic achievements will also be considered. All components are looked at together and contribute to make an overall impression of the candidate.

Note that even University of Oxford and UCL consider both the LNAT score and its essay in a holistic manner at the very final stage of their application assessment.

LSE and Durham University do not reveal the exact proportion for which the LNAT counts in their holistic assessment of an application.

Whilst, University of Bristol uses the LNAT to count for 40% of the application, with the other 40% coming from A-level grades (or equivalent) and the remaining 20% from GCSE grades (or equivalent). Meanwhile the LNAT essay counts for 40% and multiple-choice component score for 60% of the LNAT assessment. (Source: Uni of Bristol admission website )

The fact that LNAT accounts for as much as the A-level (or equivalent) grades for University of Bristol can be considered quite telling of how important it is in the holistic assessment of an application. Consider that the variance in students’ A-level predictions is much lower than the possibility of differentiation through the LNAT score.

How important is the LNAT essay?

As explained above, in any admissions cycle you can be sure of facing high competition from a large number of great candidates. This makes it hard for admission tutors to discern between a large pool of candidates and decisions of offer are therefore often tough to make. Remember though to keep it all in perspective: you are not in competition with others per se but really with yourself – have I worked throughout my education to develop skills which will match the standard required of excelling at a given law degree? At the end of the day, admissions tutors want students who they are confident about teaching and helping succeed in their degrees!

One way that is accessible to you, to make your application unique and prove your ability to excel in a Law degree is by performing well on the LNAT essay. Each candidate will have a unique voice and their own way of writing, not to mention that candidates pick different questions to answer when faced with the choice of a range of essay questions. This nature of the essay introduces great variety to what can be an otherwise similar pool of applications, although should not be treated as a panacea for a below average score (at least in instance of Oxford, see our University Score Requirements Guide.

Having said that, the essay is a great opportunity to mark yourself out. An impressive essay can really dazzle an admissions tutor and make their choice all the more easier!

Do note that some universities do not consider the essay as part of their selections, because they prefer the numerically objective metric of the multiple-choice component. These are: LSE, King’s College London and University of Nottingham. In one way, this is good, because it provides an insurance policy on the day of exam – sometimes, writing well in 40 minutes does not happen.

However, universities which openly place high importance on the essay component are: University of Oxford, UCL, University of Bristol, Durham University, with a varied past practise for University of Glasgow which considers the essay dependant on the circumstances of the given admissions cycle. These universities state the LNAT essay to play an important part of their admissions tactic, and mark each essay using an objective mark scheme.

Case closed: LNAT can be at most completely decisive and at least important.

From the above you can hopefully discern that although the way in which the LNAT score and essay is used in admissions of the different universities varies, ultimately it does play a significant role in the decision-making process of each. It is notably an important part of any application. Universities do treat it seriously because of how telling it is of a candidate’s specific aptness for a Law degree, testing those skills which are most relevant to it. Of course, there are sound criticisms to be made about the realities of the exam, however it undoubtedly focuses on testing skills inherent to legal study.

We hope that the above information shows you that a successful admission is attainable with the right approach and LNAT is not a thing to fear, but rather your opportunity to impress and stand out.

Indeed, Arbitio works to challenge your preparation through most extensive set of LNAT tests under simulated exam conditions. Our student averages of both 27 for 2018 and 2019 entry on the actual LNAT speak for themselves. So why not start preparing today?

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FAQs about the LNAT

Read this page to find out the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the LNAT and see where you can find resources to aid your preparation.

• Find out which universities use the LNAT
• See how to register and book the exam
• Discover what the LNAT entails and how it is scored
• Learn about resit policies for the LNAT

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Embarking on your journey through law school involves several significant steps, one of which is successfully navigating the Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT). Below, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help guide you through the process for the 2023-2024 cycle. This page was updated in October 2023, and the information contained refers to the 2023/2024 LNAT testing cycle.

When To Take The LNAT

When should i take the lnat in 2023.

It’s important to schedule your test for a date within the official LNAT cycle, which is between 1 September 2023 and 31 July 2024.

Does it matter if I take the LNAT 2023 before or after submitting my UCAS application?

No, the timing of your LNAT relative to your UCAS application submission doesn’t affect your eligibility. The crucial factor is that you take the LNAT within the same application cycle. Please remember, you won’t receive your LNAT results until after your university application is submitted.

Will my LNAT score from last year be valid for this year’s application?

Unfortunately, no. LNAT scores are not carried over from one year to the next. If you are reapplying through UCAS, you need to retake the LNAT in the same year as your new application.

What if I miss the deadline for the LNAT exam?

Missing the deadline to sit the LNAT will unfortunately result in your application being rejected. You would need to wait to apply for the next academic cycle and ensure that you take the LNAT within the appropriate timeframe.

I’m planning to travel or work overseas during the LNAT period. What should I do?

No need to worry! The LNAT is accessible globally, with over 500 test centres around the world. You can take the exam in any of these centres, even if you are abroad. Just ensure you book your test within the specified dates.

When does the registration for the LNAT begin?

For the 2023-2024 cycle, both UCAS and LNAT registrations open on 1 August 2023. Early registration is advised to secure your preferred test date.

Are there specific deadlines for Oxbridge, KCL, LSE, UCL, or other universities?

Yes, various universities have specific deadlines. For instance, Oxbridge candidates must sit the LNAT by 16 October 2023. Candidates for KCL, LSE, and UCL have until 31 December 2023. Other universities have different deadlines, often in early to late January 2024. Always check with your chosen university to avoid missing out.

Can I apply late for the LNAT?

International applicants may have a provision for late application, but it’s subject to specific university policies. The general late application deadline requires booking the LNAT by 25 July 2024 and sitting it by 31 July 2024. However, it’s crucial to verify with your chosen universities.

Important Tips:

• Be strategic in your application and aim to adhere to the January deadlines.
• Ensure synchronisation between your LNAT profile and UCAS application.
• Prepare for test fee payment methods in advance.
• You are allowed only one LNAT attempt per cycle.
• LNAT scores are not reusable in subsequent academic years.

Why do universities require the LNAT for law programs?

The LNAT helps universities differentiate between candidates with similar academic qualifications, assessing their suitability and preparedness for the rigorous legal studies ahead. It’s an additional measure to grade-based evaluations, designed to test a candidate’s analytical abilities and aptitude in law.

Does taking the LNAT mean I have automatically applied to the universities of my choice?

No, the LNAT is a separate process. Candidates need to apply for their chosen law programs in the usual manner through the universities’ application processes. Taking the LNAT is an additional step required by certain universities to assess your capabilities further.

Which UK universities currently require the LNAT for law courses?

There are 11 LNAT universities; 9 are based in the UK and two are overseas. 8 of the 9 UK-based LNAT universities are Russell Group Unis (SOAS is the exception), and 4 of them (King’s, LSE, SOAS and UCL) are in London.

• UK LNAT Universities:
• University of Bristol
• University of Cambridge
• Durham University
• University of Glasgow
• King’s College, London (KCL)
• London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
• University of Oxford
• University College London (UCL)
• SOAS University of London

Note that the University of Nottingham appears to have dropped their LNAT requirement for the 2024 academic year entry.

Are there any international universities that accept or require the LNAT?

Yes, the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) and IE University in Spain also use the LNAT in their admissions process. It’s important to check directly with these universities to understand the specific conditions under which they require or accept the LNAT.

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LNAT Registration 

How do i register for the lnat.

The LNAT testing system is operated by Pearson VUE. You will need to complete a two-step registration process using the Pearson VUE online registration system. You will need to:

• Set up an online account and register your contact information 
• Book and pay for your test – once you have completed your registration and created a profile. You will then be sent an email notifying you to book and pay for your test.

When Should I Register For The LNAT?

As soon as you can. Each university requiring the test specifies a deadline for sitting the test. If you miss the deadlines, your university application is likely to be rejected. You can register up to 12 noon, two days prior to taking your test. For 2023/24 UCAS applications, the LNAT registration will begin on 1 August 2023.

Are There Any Exceptions To Online Registration?

No. You will need to register for your test online and obtain an identification number. If you have special Examination Access Requirements, do not book the test online – only standard tests can be booked this way.  If you book an online test before specific exam access arrangements are made, the test will have to be cancelled and a test incorporating your special requirements will need to be booked instead. You should note that cancelling and rebooking conditions will apply.

LNAT Booking

When can i book my lnat.

As soon as you have registered your LNAT account on the Pearson VUE website, you can immediately book and pay for your LNAT exam. You should book as early as possible to avoid missing any deadlines.

Can I Reschedule My LNAT?

 Candidates can reschedule their LNAT free of charge until 12 noon (UK time) two working days before their test, excluding English Bank Holidays. Failure to reschedule within this period will necessitate a new booking and payment, as fees are non-refundable if you choose not to sit the test or miss the rescheduling deadline. This policy applies even if you’ve used a voucher or bursary for payment.

How Much Is The LNAT?

As of 2023, the LNAT costs £75 to take it in the UK or an EU country. Outside the UK or EU, the fee is £120.

I Can’t Afford The Fee, Is There An LNAT Bursary?

Yes, there is a bursary available if you can’t afford the exam fee. LNAT does not want the cost to be a barrier to taking the exam. Your test fee will be waived if you are a UK or EU student receiving certain state benefits. However, you must apply for a bursary before booking your exam. 

It can take up to a week to process an LNAT bursary application, so allow extra time when making your test booking.

The LNAT Exam

How should i prepare for the test.

Preparing for the test doesn’t involve memorising facts. Instead, it’s advisable to utilise relevant preparation materials to engage and train the relevant cognitive processes and become acquainted with the test’s structure. Follow our guide on how to prepare for the LNAT.

How Hard Is The LNAT?

The test is challenging, as it’s used by some of the world’s best universities for students trying to get into their top law schools. It features 42 multiple-choice questions and three essay questions – of which you must answer one.

How long is the LNAT?

The LNAT is a 2¼ hour test in two sections. Section A consists of 42 multiple choice questions. The questions are based on 12 argumentative passages, with 3 or 4 multiple choice questions on each. You are given 95 minutes to answer all of the questions.

For Section B, you have 40 minutes to answer one of three essay questions on a range of subjects.

What Are The LNAT Multiple-Choice Questions?

Section A of the LNAT is computer-based, comprising 12 argumentative passages, each followed by three or four multiple-choice questions. These questions, spanning various topics from politics to technology, assess your comprehension and analytical skills, not your knowledge of the subjects discussed.

What Is The LNAT Essay?

The essay question or Section B gives you three options to choose from and the questions will cover a variety of general topics that are usually relevant to current issues. Types of essay questions could include:

• To what extent should freedom of speech be absolute? Consider the implications of where the law should draw the line.
• With reference to a recent environmental crisis, discuss whether international law is equipped to tackle global environmental challenges

LNAT Scoring

How is the lnat scored.

The multiple-choice section counts toward your final test score, but the essay question does not. It is provided to the universities to which you have applied, along with your score.

What Is The LNAT Pass Score?

The test is scored out of 42. There is no pass or fail mark, but there are average scores that candidates typically achieve to successfully receive an offer from LNAT universities. For example, a good LNAT score for University of Oxford (which saw candidates secure a place) was 28.5 in 2023. 

When are LNAT results released?

LNAT results day 2023 is the same as each year. LNAT results day is twice annually: candidates who tested by 26 January receive results in mid-February, and those tested after, in mid-August

When are LNAT scores released to universities?

From 21 October, universities start receiving LNAT scores from tests taken between 1 September and 20 October, and post that, scores are available to them within 24 hours of a candidate completing the test.

How long is my LNAT score valid for?

It is only valid for the year you took it, if you are reapplying through UCAS this year, you must also take the test again this year. Results are not carried over from one year to the next.

LNAT Resits

Can you retake the lnat.

No, you can only take the LNAT once per cycle (1 September to 31 July), with unauthorised re-sittings deemed invalid. If you want to try it again, you will have to wait until next year to reapply.

Can I get extra time for the LNAT?

Yes – register as normal online via Pearson Vue, but do not book your test online. You will need to complete an Examination Access Requirements form through the website and send it to them, along with documentary evidence.

Navigating the LNAT successfully is crucial for your law school journey. Stay ahead by understanding the key dates, including when LNAT results are released, and optimise your preparation in 2023.

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For the admissions cycle for 2025 entry the Faculty of Law requires prospective applicants to sit the Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT) as a pre-interview admissions assessment. The LNAT is an internationally recognised standard for assessing applicants’ abilities in reading comprehension, inductive and deductive reasoning, verbal reasoning, and analysis, all of which are necessary skills to do well in Law at university. The LNAT does not assess intelligence or your knowledge of the law.

Cambridge will use both sections of the LNAT to assess applicants. The first section consists of 42 multiple choice questions relating to 12 argumentative passages over 95 minutes. The second is an essay in response to one of three possible questions in 40 minutes, for a total examination time of two hours and 15 minutes. The essay component will be marked centrally at Cambridge.

Please note that the LNAT will be used to deselect applicants (that is, it will be used, along with all other relevant information, in determining which applicants will be invited for interview), as well as for the selection of applicants.

Applicants are expected to sit their LNAT in September or early October, as the LNAT must have been completed by Cambridge’s 15 October UCAS deadline. Applicants may book their LNAT tests when registration opens on 1 August. Tests are completed at testing centres affiliated with the LNAT’s testing provider, Pearson Vue.

The fee for taking the LNAT is £75 at UK/EU test centres and £120 at test centres in the rest of the world. There is an LNAT bursary scheme available to candidates struggling to pay for their LNAT test. Test fees will be waived for UK/EU students in receipt of certain state benefits. Candidates must apply for their bursary before booking their LNAT.

To book your LNAT test, or to see further information, including sample tests, please visit the LNAT website .

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Guest Essay

It’s Not You: Dating Apps Are Getting Worse

By Magdalene J. Taylor

Ms. Taylor is a writer covering sex and culture.

“The golden age of dating apps is over,” a friend told me at a bar on Super Bowl Sunday. As we waited for our drinks, she and another friend swiped through Bumble and Hinge, hunting for new faces and likes. Across the bar were two young men: phones out, apps open, clearly doing the exact same thing. Never did the duos meet.

What’s lamentable here isn’t only that dating apps have become the de facto medium through which single people meet. Since 2019, three in 10 U.S. adults have reported using them, with that figure rising to roughly six in 10 for Americans under 50 who have never been married. Not only are people not meeting partners in bars or any of the once normal in-person venues — they’re barely meeting them on the apps, either.

Maybe most of us just aren’t as hot as we used to be. Maybe it’s time our inflated egos got knocked down a notch. Maybe the market of people still willing to put themselves out there in an attempt to date has gotten smaller. Or maybe the apps have functionally, intentionally gotten worse, as have our romantic prospects. The more they fail to help us form relationships, the more we’re forced to keep swiping — and paying.

The internet, where so many of us spend so much of our time, has not been spared from the decline in quality that seems to plague so much of consumer life. This phenomenon was described by the writer Cory Doctorow in a November 2022 blog post and is sometimes called “platform decay”: Tech platforms like Amazon, Reddit and X have declined in quality as they’ve expanded. These sites initially hooked consumers by being almost too good to be true, attempting to become essential one-stop shops within their respective spaces while often charging nothing, thanks to low interest rates and free-flowing venture capital funding . Now that we’re all locked in and that capital has dried up, those initial hooks have been walked back — and there’s nowhere else to go.

This is precisely what is happening with dating apps now, too, with much more urgent consequences. What’s worsening isn’t just the technological experience of online dating but also our ability to form meaningful, lasting connections offline.

The collapse of dating apps’ usability can be blamed on the paid subscription model and the near-monopoly these apps have over the dating world. While dozens of sites exist, most 20-something daters use the big three: Tinder, Hinge and Bumble. (Older people often gravitate toward Match.com or eHarmony.) All three sites offer a “premium” version users must pay for — according to a study conducted by Morgan Stanley , around a quarter of people on dating apps use these services, averaging out at under $20 a month. The purpose, many believe, is to keep them as paid users for as long as possible. Even if we hate it, even if it’s a cycle of diminishing returns, there is no real alternative.

In the early heyday of Tinder, the only limits on whom you could potentially match with were location, gender and age preferences. You might not have gotten a like back from someone you perceived to be out of your league, but at least you had the chance to swipe right. Today, however, many apps have pooled the people you’d most like to match with into a separate category (such as Hinge’s “Standouts” section), often only accessible to those who pay for premium features. And even if you do decide to sign up for them, many people find the idea of someone paying to match with them to be off-putting anyway.

“If I don’t pay, I don’t date,” a friend in his 30s told me. He spends around $50 a month on premium dating app subscriptions and digital “roses” to grab the attention of potential matches. He’s gone on 65 dates over the last year, he said. None have stuck, so he keeps paying. “Back in the day, I never would have imagined paying for OKCupid,” he said.

Yet shares (Bumble’s stock price has fallen from about $75 to about $11 since its I.P.O.) and user growth have fallen , so the apps have more aggressively rolled out new premium models. In September 2023, Tinder released a $500 per month plan. But the economics of dating apps may not add up .

On Valentine’s Day this year, Match Group — which owns Tinder, Hinge, Match.com, OKCupid and many other dating apps — was sued in a proposed class action lawsuit asserting that the company gamifies its platforms “to transform users into gamblers locked in a search for psychological rewards that Match makes elusive on purpose.” This is in contrast to one of the group’s ad slogans that promotes Hinge as “designed to be deleted.”

People are reporting similar complaints across the apps — even when they aren’t taking the companies to court. Pew Research shows that over the last several years, the percentage of dating app users across demographics who feel dissatisfied with the apps has risen . Just under half of all users report feeling somewhat to very negative about online dating, with the highest rates coming from women and those who don’t pay for premium features. Notably, there is a gender divide: Women feel overwhelmed by messages, while men are underwhelmed by the lack thereof.

With seemingly increasing frequency, people are going to sites like TikTok , Reddit and X to complain about what they perceive to be a dwindling group of eligible people to meet on apps. Commonly, complaints are targeted toward these monthly premium fees, in contrast to the original free experience. Dating has always cost money, but there’s something uniquely galling about the way apps now function. Not only does it feel like the apps are the only way to meet someone, just getting in the door can also comes with a surcharge.

Perhaps dating apps once seemed too good to be true because they were. We never should have been exposed to what the apps originally provided: the sense that the dating pool is some unlimited, ever-increasing-in-quality well of people. Even if the apps are not systematically getting worse but rather you’ve just spent the last few years as a five thinking you should be paired with eights, the apps have nonetheless fundamentally skewed the dating world and our perception of it. We’ve distorted our understanding of how we’d organically pair up — and forgotten how to actually meet people in the process.

Our romantic lives are not products. They should not be subjected to monthly subscription fees, whether we’re the ones paying or we’re the ones people are paying for. Algorithmic torture may be happening everywhere, but the consequences of feeling like we are technologically restricted from finding the right partner are much heavier than, say, being duped into buying the wrong direct-to-consumer mattress. Dating apps treat people like commodities, and encourage us to treat others the same. We are not online shopping. We are looking for people we may potentially spend our lives with.

There is, however, some push toward a return to the real that could save us from this pattern. New in-person dating meet-up opportunities and the return of speed dating events suggests app fatigue is spreading. Maybe we’ll start meeting at bars again — rather than simply swiping through the apps while holding a drink.

Have you ditched dating apps for a new way to meet people, or are you still swiping left?

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Magdalene J. Taylor (@ magdajtaylor ) is a writer covering sex and culture. She writes the newsletter “ Many Such Cases .”

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