Internal and External Aids to Interpretation

Start with the overview

The quiz “Statutory Interpretation” asks what aids to interpretation are used for and introduces rules of language. You could use it first to see which terms you recognize. Then open the mind map of the same name for an overview of intrinsic and extrinsic aids, including titles, interpretation sections and schedules.

If you prefer to begin with an explanation, the slide set “Statutory Interpretation - Internal and External Aids” looks at internal aids, including the long and short titles and the use of the statute as a whole.

Study aids within an Act

The “Internal aids” mind map describes internal, or intrinsic, aids as material found within an Act. It includes the long and short titles. The “Internal Aids” flashcards ask what internal aids are and prompt you to give examples of titles.

Use the cards after the map: look at a prompt, form your own answer, then check it against the material. The separate “Internal aids” flashcard deck also lists the preamble, marginal notes, headings, interpretation sections and schedules.

Explore external aids

The “External Aids” flashcards ask why a judge might refer to a dictionary and consider an advantage and disadvantage of doing so. They also ask about the Interpretation Act 1978. The “Internal and External aids to interpretation” deck brings items from both groups together, including titles, dictionaries, previous Acts and earlier case law.

Connect the resources

This topic is one section of the Statutory Interpretation unit in Law (general and introduction). The maps can help you organize the terms; the flashcards give you prompts to recall them. After using both, return to the “Statutory Interpretation” quiz or try “Intrinsic Aids” or “Extrinsic Aids” to practice the relevant group.

Pick a map and a quiz to work through together.