IRAC Analysis Template

IRAC ANALYSIS

ISSUE:
[Identify the specific legal issue or question to be resolved. Frame it as a narrow, answerable question. A well-framed issue incorporates the legal standard and the relevant facts.

Guidance: Start with "Whether" or "The issue is whether..." Be specific — avoid broad, abstract questions. Each distinct legal question should have its own IRAC analysis.]

RULE:
[State the applicable legal rule, standard, or test. Include:
- The source of the rule (statute, case law, constitutional provision)
- All elements or factors of the test
- Any relevant exceptions or qualifications
- Key definitions of legal terms

Guidance: Be precise and complete. If the rule has a multi-factor test, list every factor. If there is a majority/minority rule split, note both. Always cite your sources.]

APPLICATION:
[Apply each element of the rule to the specific facts of your problem. This is the most important section — it demonstrates your analytical ability.

Guidance:
- Address each element or factor separately
- Use facts from the problem to show why each element is or is not satisfied
- Argue both sides when the analysis is close
- Use analogical reasoning: compare your facts to precedent cases
- Do not introduce new rules here — only apply the rules stated above
- This section should be the longest part of your analysis]

CONCLUSION:
[State your conclusion clearly. Answer the issue you identified.

Guidance: Be definitive — state whether the element/claim/defense is likely satisfied or not. A brief explanation of the strongest reason supports your credibility. If the outcome is genuinely uncertain, acknowledge the close question but still commit to a position.]