How should I go about planning an English Essay?

First I would read the question which you have been given. Underline the key words and think about what the question is really asking you as many mistakes have been made for answering the wrong question or the question you want to write. Then I would look at what theme you are being asked to discuss and think about your line of argument on this theme as this is the most important part of your essay. I would then think about what quotes you can use to back up this theme and split them into sub-themes, I would note all of this down on a mind map. Then I would number the points which you have come up with, so that you know what order you will put the points into in the essay. Make sure that each point leads on from the next. Finally, I would jot down some notes on the introduction and the conclusion - making sure you have a strong argument throughout.