What are the types of MPTs I will see on the bar exam?

What are the types of MPTs I will see on the bar exam?

If you are taking the bar exam, you may wonder what types of MPTs (or multistate performance tests) you will see on the bar exam. In this post, we list the types of MPTs that you could potentially see on the bar exam. You can also see the frequency in which they are tested on the chart above. 

• Objective memorandum (this is the most popular!)
• Persuasive brief (this is second-most popular!)
• Opinion letter (usually an opinion letter is tested with a persuasive task, like a persuasive brief. Opinion letters are objective so the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) will often give a persuasive task to see if you can write persuasively as well!)
• Demand letter  (usually a demand letter is tested with an objective task, like an objective memorandum!)
• Other tasks (occasionally the NCBE will test something unusual like redrafting contract provisions, drafting a complaint, a bench memo, etc. You can see these in the chart above!)

What is an “MPT”?

No matter what type of MPT task you are given, an MPT has three important components to look for.

• A task memo. This will tell you what to do. It is so important to follow directions carefully! Your task memo is your roadmap. Keep referring to it!
• A file. This will contain various documents that show the facts of the case. Generally, it contains letters, client interviews, etc.
• A library. The library usually contains cases and sometimes also contains statutes as well. It tells you what the law is. You will be applying the law to the facts you find in the file.

To read more about how to format each type of MPT (as well as other tips for each type of MPT task) please check out this MPT formatting post! You can also see our MPT formatting one-sheet here!

• Looking for MPT Help?

  We offer the following MPT products and services:

  • MPT private tutoring for those seeking one-on-one help to pass the MPT.
  • An MPT guide which takes students from the beginning to end in how to write an MPT.
  • MPT feedback for those seeking structural and organizational review of practice questions.
  • Real MPT questions! We offer all NCBE-released questions from 2000 to present compiled in one book.
  • An MPT seminar for those seeking help on how to tackle the MPT.

  Also, check out our new Free Bar Exam Resource Center, which includes our most popular free guides, posts, webinars, and more!