Mnemomics: Contract Law | Legal Reasoning for CLAT PDF Download

This document simplifies the essential elements and remedies of Contract Law using easy-to-remember memory tricks (mnemonics). Whether it’s understanding what makes a contract legally valid or knowing the remedies available when one is breached, these shortcuts are designed to help you grasp key concepts quickly and retain them effortlessly.

Perfect for CLAT UG and other law entrance exams, this guide will boost your revision, improve recall, and make Contract Law feel much less intimidating. Use it alongside your regular study material to reinforce your learning and prepare smarter.

Essential Elements of a Valid Contract

Concept: A valid contract needs specific elements under Section 10 of the Indian Contract Act.

Mnemonic: “A COOL WOLF”

• A – Agreement (offer + acceptance)
• C – Consideration (something in return)
• O – Object (lawful purpose)
• O – Offeror/Offeree Competent (capacity: major, sound mind, not disqualified)
• L – Lawful (not illegal or immoral)
• W – Willing parties (free consent: no coercion, fraud, undue influence, misrepresentation, mistake)
• F – Form (in writing/registration when law requires)

Explanation: For a contract to be valid, it must have a lawful offer and acceptance, consideration, competent parties (e.g., not minors), free consent (no coercion), a lawful object, clear terms, and an intention to create legal obligations. Some contracts need a specific form (e.g., written for property sales).

Remedies for Breach of Contract

Mnemonic:“DR SIP”

• D - Damages: Get money for direct harm caused by the breach, not random issues.
  Example: Grumpy Gus gets money for being dropped off at the wrong spot, but not for his wife’s illness.
• R - Rescission: Cancel the contract and claim compensation for losses.
  Example: Singer Aria skips her theatre performance, so manager Bouncy B cancels the contract and asks for money for losses.
• S - Specific Performance: Court orders the breaching party to do what they promised, unless it’s personal, hard to supervise, or money is enough.
  Example: Landlord Larry must sell land as agreed, but not for personal or vague jobs.
• I - Injunction: Court stops someone from breaking the contract, like working with others.
  Example: Gadget Gary is stopped from buying electricity from another company.
• P - Quantum Meruit (Payment): Get paid for work done if the contract is broken or void.
  Example: Builder Betty gets money for half a stage she built.