How can I be more concise in my essays?

When writing an essay, you need only say what is necessary. Waffling can lead to confusing your point and losing precious marks! My first tip would be to make a clear plan when beginning writing; note your key points with helpful quotations from the text and from critics, if relevant. The introduction should explain anything unclear in the question as well as suggesting the argument that you wish to follow in the main body of your essay. Moving into the body of the text, I would urge following the PEER rule for each of your ideas (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Refer to the question). If you follow each of these, saying what is necessary to convey your point and not repeating yourself, then you should have a concise paragraph. The conclusion of an essay should round up your points, again without repeating yourself, presenting the outcome of your debate.