Law lecturers across UK universities consistently identify the same recurring mistakes in student essays.
1. Being Too Descriptive
This is the single most common criticism. Students spend paragraphs describing what a case decided without ever analysing why the decision matters. The fix: for every case you cite, ask yourself "So what?" — and write that answer down.
2. Not Answering the Question
A surprising number of essays fail because the student writes everything they know about a topic rather than addressing the specific question asked. Underline the key words in the question and return to them in every paragraph.
3. Poor Structure
An essay without a clear structure reads like a stream of consciousness. Use signposting — tell the reader what you are about to argue, argue it, and then explain what you have shown.
4. Incorrect Referencing
OSCOLA errors are easy to make and easy to avoid. Common mistakes include italicising statutes, using "Section" instead of "s", and omitting pinpoint references.
5. Relying on Textbooks Alone
A first-class essay draws on primary sources, journal articles, Law Commission reports, and Hansard debates. Relying solely on a textbook signals that you have not engaged with the wider literature.
6. Ignoring Counter-Arguments
One-sided essays rarely score above 2:1. Acknowledge the strongest objection to your thesis and explain why your position is still preferable.
7. Weak Introductions and Conclusions
Your introduction should contain a thesis statement, not a vague promise to "discuss" the topic. Your conclusion should synthesise your argument, not simply repeat your introduction.
8. Over-Quoting
Long block quotes suggest you cannot paraphrase the principle in your own words. Quote only when the exact wording matters. Otherwise, paraphrase and cite.