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A Law Student's Toolkit

Ian Ayres

Whether you are an advanced law student looking to review the basics, or an aspiring law student looking for head start, this course will help you build the foundation you will need to succeed in law school and beyond. This course will introduce you to terminology, concepts, and tools lawyers and legal academics use to make their arguments. It will help you follow these arguments—and make arguments of your own.

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Whether you are an advanced law student looking to review the basics, or an aspiring law student looking for head start, this course will help you build the foundation you will need to succeed in law school and beyond. This course will introduce you to terminology, concepts, and tools lawyers and legal academics use to make their arguments. It will help you follow these arguments—and make arguments of your own.

This course consists of a series of short lectures and assignments. A reading list complements each lesson, providing you with a roadmap to help you explore the subject matter more deeply on your own. Although the lessons may cross-reference each other, they are modular in nature: you should feel free to approach them in whatever order fits your schedule, interests, and needs.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction

An overview of what you will learn, how it will help you, and how to get the most from it.

Categories and Distinctions

Dichotomies and oppositions that will help you categorize legal rules and frame policy questions.

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Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Builds a strong foundation for beginners in the field of law and legal analysis

Taught by Ian Ayres, a recognized expert in the field of law

Provides a comprehensive overview of legal terminology, concepts, and tools

Helps learners develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for legal professionals

Suitable for aspiring law students seeking a head start or advanced students desiring a review of fundamentals

May require additional resources for a deeper understanding of specific legal topics

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Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.

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Reviews summary

Foundation and toolkit for law students

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation and useful toolkit for aspiring and current law students needing a review. Many found the lectures clear and concise, effectively introducing key legal terminology and concepts. Students appreciated the modular structure, allowing flexibility in learning. While it provides an excellent introduction, some more advanced students noted it is a basic overview rather than an in-depth exploration, serving primarily as a starting point or review tool.

Ideal for aspiring students or review.

"Perfect for someone like me who is just starting to explore legal studies."

"As a non-law student, this was a great primer. It gave me a clear overview."

"It served as a useful review of fundamental concepts I learned in my first year of law school."

"This is definitely aimed at beginners or as a quick refresher, not advanced study."

Readings offer further exploration.

"The recommended reading list was a great resource for diving deeper into subjects."

"I appreciated the roadmap provided by the readings to explore topics beyond the lectures."

"The readings complement the lectures well if you have the time to consult them."

"It's helpful that they suggest where to find more detailed information."

Structure allows flexible learning path.

"I really appreciated the modular nature of the lessons. I could focus on areas I needed most."

"The flexibility to jump between topics based on my interest was very helpful."

"It's great that you don't have to complete the course in a linear fashion."

"The ability to pick and choose modules made it easy to fit into my schedule."

Lectures are easy to follow and understand.

"The lectures were clear, concise, and well-explained, making complex topics accessible."

"Professor Post breaks down difficult ideas into easily digestible segments."

"I found the video lessons engaging and straightforward."

"The short lecture format was perfect for grasping core ideas quickly."

Excellent starting point for legal studies.

"This course provides an excellent introduction to legal concepts and terminology. It truly builds a solid foundation..."

"It is a very helpful course for those considering law school or needing a refresher on basic legal principles."

"I learned key vocabulary and frameworks that make understanding legal arguments much easier."

"The course delivers exactly what it promises: a toolkit and foundation for law students."

Content is introductory, not in-depth.

"While clear, the course is quite basic and doesn't go into much depth on any single topic."

"If you're already well into law school, this might be too elementary for you."

"I was hoping for more detailed analysis, but this is truly just a high-level toolkit."

"Good for the basics, but you'll need other resources for detailed understanding."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in A Law Student's Toolkit with these activities:

Review High School Civics

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Recall and strengthen your knowledge of basic legal principles and the history of law.

Browse courses on Legal History

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Review your high school civics notes or textbooks.
Focus on understanding the foundations of the legal system and the key principles of law.

Review Vocabulary

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Refresh your vocabulary and core legal concepts covered in this course.

Browse courses on Legal Terminology

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List out and define 10 important legal terms.
Review the definitions of these terms on legal websites or dictionaries.
Apply these terms in sample legal scenarios.

Read 'An Introduction to Legal Systems'

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Supplement your understanding of the legal systems and institutions covered in this course.

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Read a chapter or section of the book on a topic of interest.
Summarize the key points and how they relate to the topics discussed in this course.

Five other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all eight activities

Attend a Legal Mock Trial

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Witness a mock trial to gain insights into the practical application of legal principles and courtroom procedures.

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Find a local law school or court that offers mock trials.
Attend the mock trial and observe the proceedings.
Reflect on the experience and how it relates to your coursework.

Practice Legal Analysis

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Develop your ability to analyze legal issues and construct sound arguments.

Browse courses on Legal Analysis

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Watch a tutorial on basic legal analysis.
Apply the steps of legal analysis to a real-world legal problem.
Craft a legal argument based on your analysis.
Review your argument with a peer or mentor for feedback.

Attend a Study Group

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Engage with classmates to discuss course material and enhance your understanding.

Show steps

Join or form a study group with peers.
Meet regularly to discuss specific topics or assignments.
Share notes, perspectives, and quiz each other.

Create a Legal Glossary

Show steps

Solidify your understanding of legal terms and concepts by creating your own glossary.

Browse courses on Legal Terminology

Show steps

Review your notes and identify key terms.
Define the terms concisely and accurately.
Organize the terms in alphabetical order or by category.
Utilize the glossary as a reference tool during your coursework.

Participate in a Legal Writing Competition

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Challenge yourself by writing a legal argument or paper and competing against other students.

Browse courses on Legal Writing

Show steps

Review the competition guidelines and requirements.
Research and select a topic that interests you.
Draft and edit your paper carefully.
Submit your paper and await the results.

Career center

Learners who complete A Law Student's Toolkit will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Legal Assistant

Legal Assistants are critical members of the legal team, providing administrative, clerical, and paralegal support. They use their knowledge of legal terminology and procedures to help lawyers prepare for trials, draft legal documents, and manage client files. This course would provide Legal Assistants with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the analytical and communication skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Legal Assistant

Paralegal

Paralegals are legal professionals who work under the supervision of lawyers. They perform a variety of tasks, including legal research, drafting legal documents, and assisting with trials. This course would provide Paralegals with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the analytical and communication skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Paralegal

Law Librarian

Law Librarians are responsible for organizing and managing legal collections in libraries, law firms, and other legal institutions. They help researchers find the legal information they need, and they may also provide reference and instructional services. This course would provide Law Librarians with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the research and communication skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Law Librarian

Legal Journalist

Legal Journalists write articles and reports about legal issues for newspapers, magazines, and websites. They need to have a strong understanding of the law in order to accurately report on legal proceedings and developments. This course would provide Legal Journalists with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the research and writing skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Legal Journalist

Legal Educator

Legal Educators teach law at universities and law schools. They need to have a strong understanding of the law in order to effectively teach their students. This course would provide Legal Educators with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the teaching and communication skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Legal Educator

Compliance Officer

Compliance Officers ensure that their organizations comply with all applicable laws and regulations. They need to have a strong understanding of the law in order to effectively carry out their duties. This course would provide Compliance Officers with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the analytical and communication skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Compliance Officer

Risk Manager

Risk Managers identify and assess risks to their organizations. They need to have a strong understanding of the law in order to effectively manage legal risks. This course would provide Risk Managers with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the analytical and communication skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Manager

Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts develop and evaluate public policies. They need to have a strong understanding of the law in order to effectively analyze and develop policies. This course would provide Policy Analysts with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the analytical and communication skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Legislator

Legislators make laws. They need to have a strong understanding of the law in order to effectively create and pass laws. This course would provide Legislators with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the communication and negotiation skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Legislator

Judge

Judges preside over legal proceedings and make decisions based on the law. They need to have a strong understanding of the law in order to effectively carry out their duties. This course would provide Judges with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the analytical and communication skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Judge

Lawyer

Lawyers represent clients in legal matters. They need to have a strong understanding of the law in order to effectively represent their clients. This course would provide Lawyers with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the analytical and communication skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lawyer

Legal Advisor

Legal Advisors provide legal advice to clients. They need to have a strong understanding of the law in order to effectively advise their clients. This course would provide Legal Advisors with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the analytical and communication skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Legal Advisor

Mediator

Mediators help disputing parties reach agreements. They need to have a strong understanding of the law in order to effectively mediate disputes. This course would provide Mediators with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the communication and negotiation skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mediator

Arbitrator

Arbitrators resolve disputes outside of court. They need to have a strong understanding of the law in order to effectively resolve disputes. This course would provide Arbitrators with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the analytical and communication skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Arbitrator

Ombudsperson

Ombudspersons investigate and resolve complaints within organizations. They need to have a strong understanding of the law in order to effectively investigate and resolve complaints. This course would provide Ombudspersons with a strong foundation in the basics of law, helping them to understand the legal concepts and arguments they encounter in their work. It would also help them to develop the communication and problem-solving skills necessary to succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Ombudsperson

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in A Law Student's Toolkit.

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The Concept of Law

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A foundational work in legal philosophy that explores the nature and definition of law.

The Concept of Law (Clarendon Law Series)

The Concept of Law (Clarendon Law Series) 2nd...

The Concept of Law (Clarendon Law) by Hart, HLA...

Unknown Binding

The Concept of Law (Clarendon Law Series)

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The Investigator

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Provides a comprehensive introduction to the nature and function of law, legal institutions, and legal reasoning.

The Investigator

The Investigator

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Cover image

Save

A seminal work on legal philosophy that explores the relationship between law and morality.

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The Federalist Papers

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A collection of essays that were instrumental in the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.

The Federalist Papers

The Federalist Papers

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The Business of Judging

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An accessible and thought-provoking exploration of the concept of the rule of law.

The Business of Judging: Selected Essays and...

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The Bill of Rights Primer

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An accessible and informative guide to the Bill of Rights.

The Bill of Rights Primer: A Citizen's Guidebook to...

The Bill of Rights Primer: A Citizen's Guidebook to...

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Commentaries on the Law of Ontario [microform]

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A classic work of legal scholarship that provides a comprehensive overview of the English common law system.

Commentaries on the Law of Ontario [microform]:...

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Public Administration

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A clear and concise introduction to the U.S. Constitution.

Public Administration

Public Administration: Politics and Law in the...

Public Administration: Understanding Management,...

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Democracy's Discontent

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A popular and accessible introduction to moral and political philosophy that explores the nature of justice.

Democracy’s Discontent: A New Edition for Our...

(Español) El descontento democrático [Democracy's Discontent]...

Audible Audiobook

Democracy’s Discontent: America in Search of a...

Korean book 당신이 모르는 민주주의 자본주의와 자유주의의 불편한 공존...

Democracy’s Discontent: A New Edition for Our...

Democracy’s Discontent: America in Search of a...

Explaining America

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A helpful guide to understanding one of the most important works in American political thought.

Explaining America

Explaining America

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Effort

3 weeks of study, 5-7 hours/week

Via

Coursera

Institution

Yale University

Instructor

Ian Ayres

Language

English

Transcripts

Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Builds a strong foundation for beginners in the field of law and legal analysis

Taught by Ian Ayres, a recognized expert in the field of law

Provides a comprehensive overview of legal terminology, concepts, and tools

Helps learners develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for legal professionals

Suitable for aspiring law students seeking a head start or advanced students desiring a review of fundamentals

May require additional resources for a deeper understanding of specific legal topics

Share this

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