Independent study and source-based writing
Independent study and source-based writing
This domain tests whether you can build and defend an argument from primary sources. The examiner looks for accurate citations, chronological awareness, and a clear thesis.
Citation conventions
- Gemara: masechet + daf + amud, e.g., Bava Kamma 55b.
- Mishnah: masechet + perek + mishnah, e.g., Bava Kamma 1:1.
- Tosefta: masechet + perek + halakhah.
- Midrash: sefer + parashah + chapter.
- Rishon: author + sefer + chapter/halakhah (Rambam, Hilkhot...).
- Shulchan Aruch: siman + se’if + kaf; Rema’s gloss marked הגה.
Structure of a source-based answer
- State the question precisely.
- List sources in order: Tanakh → Mishnah/baraita → Gemara → Rishonim → Acharonim.
- For each source, give the claim and its context.
- Compare; note agreement or contradiction.
- Conclude with the rule or the remaining difficulty.
Worked example
Question: “What is the basis of liability for the four avot nezikin?” Open with Mishnah Bava Kamma 1:1 (four avot). Cite Gemara Bava Kamma 2a for the scriptural basis and the question מאי טעמא. Add Rashi’s gloss on the local term. Then note Tosafot’s question from a parallel sugya and its distinction. Conclude: the Mishnah states the categories; the Gemara supplies the rationale; the Rishonim debate the scope. Reasoning: every paragraph must advance the argument, not just list sources.
Traps
- Citing “the Gemara” without daf/amud.
- Quoting a Rishon from a summary without checking the original.
- Mixing Rashi and Tosafot.
- Using an Acharon to explain an amora without noting chronology.
- Writing a summary instead of a thesis-driven analysis.