This accessible paperback earned its success in the classroom by: - providing a complete introduction to the techniques and process of writing appellate briefs- presenting class-tested materials and ample illustrations that are both accessible and teachable- emphasizing the process approach to writing, beginning with large-scale issues like content and organization, moving to smaller-scale issues like signals to the reader, and ending on the smallest-scale concerns of format and polishing methods- using numerous annotated examples -- both good and bad -- of legal writing from briefs, with commentary on the point each example is illustrating- including in the appendices four sample briefs with annotations that identify strengths of the brief and/or why the writer chose a particular technique- teaching students how abstract formulas (IRAC, CREXAC, etc.) can be effective in legal writing by having them identify whether certain elements have been included in a document and giving concrete advice on how to use formulas- encouraging students to critique their own work and improve their final product by using the self-graded draftThe Second Edition is strengthened by: - including format and function information about dispositive motion memos (such as motions to dismiss or for summary judgment), along with a sample motion memo- refining the discussion of the use of authority to help students better understand what a citation means- improving the discussion of CREXAC to facilitate easier comprehension of how to use formulas to write effectively- adding the concept of "user" to complement the concept of "reader" and explaining the needs of bothgroups- supplying more information on identifying a theme for the argument- including tips on citing to web pages and citing to unpublished opinions