How do you write a good introduction and conclusion?

In an exam you shouldn't spend too much time on your introduction and conclusion as most of your marks come from the main bulk of the essay. A good place to start with an introduction is looking at the key words of the question. These words will tell you what you should focus on. Your introduction should address these key words, perhaps giving a few examples of areas of the text(s) you'll look at in the rest of the essay. Most importantly, an introduction should establish your view/argument in relation to the question. A conclusion should bring your arguments from the essay together in a concise way. Try not to introduce any new information in the conclusion and don't be afraid to start it with 'sign post' phrases such as 'To conclude' or 'All together': the marker is looking for a clearly structured essay and this is a clear sign of structure.