How do I structure an essay?

Structure is a key element of successful essays and always encourage the examiner to view your work in a better light, as well as gaining you extra marks. Before thinking about structure you must have a clear idea of what the content of your essay will be. Start by thinking carefully about the question and what it is asking you to do, and note down ideas for different points. From these notes identify your line of argument; once you have this you are ready to structure your essay. When structuring an essay it is important that the argument flows logically and cohesively through the essay. Begin with points that set up your argument and give evidence, then move on to develop your argument and end by bringing the whole thing together.