LNAT Clarity and Precision in Writing 2

Question 1

Which revision best eliminates the ambiguity in: 'The attorney told his client he needed to prepare for trial.'?

Accepted Answer

The attorney said, 'You need to prepare for trial,' to his client.

Answer

Using direct speech removes the ambiguity over whose trial preparation is required.

Question 2

A sentence contains a 'dangling modifier.' What is the primary problem this creates?

Accepted Answer

The modifier logically describes a word not actually present in the sentence.

Answer

A dangling modifier has no logical subject in the sentence to attach to, creating confusion about what is being described.

Question 3

Which of the following is an example of a 'false precision' error in legal writing?

Accepted Answer

The defendant arrived at approximately 9:00 a.m.

Answer

Saying 'approximately 9:00 a.m.' combines an approximation qualifier with a precise time, which is contradictory.

Question 4

In the sentence 'The new law impacts businesses that are small,' what is the main clarity problem?

Accepted Answer

The adjective 'small' is placed in an unnatural position, creating awkwardness.

Answer

Placing 'small' after 'businesses' as a predicate adjective rather than before it as an attributive adjective ('small businesses') is awkward and less clear.

Question 5

Which sentence uses the word 'including' most precisely in a legal context?

Accepted Answer

The penalty includes, but is not limited to, fines and imprisonment.

Answer

'Including, but not limited to' signals that the list is non-exhaustive, which is the standard precise formulation in legal writing.

LNAT - Law National Aptitude Test Practice Test

LNAT - Law National Aptitude Test Practice Test

LNAT Clarity and Precision in Writing 2