Primary v. Secondary Sources: Why Is Reading Cases So Hard?

As you start law school, you might notice that reading cases is rather difficult. This lesson will explain why reading cases feels so hard, and give you tips on how to make things slightly easier.

This lesson also includes video commentary from the author that expands on the material in the lesson.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the lesson, students will be able to:

1. Summarize why reading cases is different from what you've done before.
2. Recognize the difference between a primary and secondary source.
3. Demonstrate how to read case law.