The 39B RIP (Read-In-Preparation) essay is a core requirement that all first-year students at Stanford Law School must complete as part of the first semester curriculum. The 39B RIP essay assignment asks students to thoroughly read and analyze a seminal legal text in preparation for class discussions. These essays are meant to critically engage with the assigned reading through careful identification and discussion of key concepts, arguments, and perspectives. As the first major writing assignment in law school, the 39B RIP essay presents both opportunities and challenges for new students seeking to demonstrate their legal analysis and writing skills.
To successfully write a 39B RIP essay, students must first select an appropriate text from the assigned reading and identify the most important issues, arguments, or perspectives to analyze. Choosing a narrow focus that can be thoroughly addressed within the essay’s length constraints is crucial. Some potential pathways include analyzing a specific legal problem or debate raised in the text, exploring the evolution or impact of a key concept over time, or comparing and contrasting different scholarly perspectives on an issue. Deciding on a clear analytical framework early in the process helps guide research and structure the written analysis.
Research is another essential component of the 39B RIP essay. Even if students have thoroughly read the primary text, additional research is needed to properly situate the analysis within the broader legal context. Resources like secondary scholarly articles, cases cited in the text, and background readings can provide supporting evidence and authoritative perspectives to bolster the original analysis. Research also allows students to address counterarguments and anticipate weaknesses in their own position. Integrating well-chosen, credible outside sources enhances the sophistication and persuasiveness of the written argument.
Strong organization is paramount for 39B RIP essays. An introduction that clearly states the analytical framework and roadmap for the essay allows readers to follow the logic of the written analysis. Well-structured body paragraphs each focused on a discrete sub-issue or argument lend coherence. Transitions between ideas keep the discussion flowing smoothly. A conclusion that summarizes key takeaways and relationships to broader themes brings analysis full circle. Overall organization, like quality analysis itself, depends on outlining a logical structure before writing begins.
Skillful writing remains essential even for an analysis-focused assignment like the 39B RIP essay. Clear, concise prose untainted by legalese allows complex ideas to communicate effectively. Precise word choice and active syntax keep readers engaged. Well-chosen quotes and examples from primary and secondary sources illustrate and support written analysis. Careful editing eliminates redundant language, awkward transitions, and weak reasoning. Readability remains paramount even as the essay demonstrates a mastery of sophisticated legal thinking. Professors can best assess analytical abilities through lucidly crafted writing.
To maximize their chances of success, students should pursue multiple strategies for the 39B RIP essay assignment. Thoroughly comprehending the primary text through close readings lays the foundation. Identifying a focused analytical framework early guides research and organization. Careful outlining builds essay structure before setting words to page. Drawing on additional credible sources supports and deepens analysis. Drafting, revising, and further polishing the final product helps produce the clearest, most persuasive written argument. While daunting, the 39B RIP essay offers first-year law students an valuable opportunity to hone both legal scholarship and communication skills critical to future coursework and career success. With diligent preparation and execution, 39B essays can help students start their law school tenure on the right analytical and writing footing.