Jurist Law Schools

Professors vary on the way they use the Socratic method, but the basic formula is that the professor chooses one student and asks that person several questions, whenever possible not giving away the answer but letting the student come to it on his or her own. The most effective way to prepare is to read the material carefully, have some form of notes or highlighting as a guide, and not be afraid to make mistakes.

Professors may choose one student for each case, one for each class period, or several students for a long case. Some professors use "cold calling," and others go in alphabetical order or down the rows. If the student repeatedly fails to understand the question or can't find a satisfactory answer, the professor may move on, but if a student has not read the case at all the best response is to simply say, "I'm not prepared today." The professor will not be impressed, but it does save embarrassment.

How to Read Cases for the Socratic Method

Some professors will ask specific questions such as, "what is the issue of this case?" or "what is the holding?" The easiest way to prepare for this sort of course is to have some form of a brief available for each case, whether highlighted in the book or written out. Some professors are more abstract, and will say, "tell us about this case." The facts, issue, and holding are still good to know, but if the professor insists that a student explain in his or her own words what's important about the case, it is also helpful to have a few general notes.

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