How should I structure my essay?
The TSA essay can be very off-putting - unlike normal exams, you can't revise lots of facts and the chances are the questions are not going to match what you've been studying for A levels/IB. But Oxford professors know this, and they are not looking for you to solve the question, but to make a case for one particular point of view. I think there are three important factors to a good TSA question:
- Choose the question that interests you the most, not the question that you find easiest. The essay is about demonstrating your interest and academic potential which you will show off best by engaging with the issues you care about. 2) Answer the question. Don't go off on a tangent - you don't have the time, and Oxford professors don't like waffle (trust me)! 3) Take a stance and argue why it's correct. You should show that you are aware that there are alternative points of view, but don't let your essay become too descriptive. Use criticisms to advance your own argument.
TR
Related TSA Oxford University answers
All answers ▸What is the best way to prepare for the TSA Oxford Section 1?
Simon is three times older than Cheryl. In five years, the sum of their ages will be 74. How old is Simon?
Two neighbours carpool into work, driving alternately in strict rotation. They work exactly the same days as each other - Monday to Friday each week and every other Saturday. What is the maximum number of days each must drive in a calendar month?
Which is more important: the survival of an animal species as a whole or the welfare of individual animals? (similar to section 2, 2016 paper)