How do I ensure that I have completed a GCSE English Literature essay to a high standard?

Firstly, you should ensure that you have completely understood what the question is asking you to do; a good way to check this is by highlighting the key words of the question, drawing arrows from the key words and writing down ideas and concepts which come to mind. 

Once you have read and understood the question, you should make a vague essay plan - try not to spend over five minutes on this. Your essay plan should include an introduction, main points (which you will divide into separate paragraphs) and points for a strong conclusion. 

Indeed, once you have a short essay plan, you should do another very quick list of things you need to remember to include; for example, you could jot down some key punctuation such as semi-colons, brackets and hyphens. 'Posh' punctuation should be used to the best of your ability, yet only in appropriate places and not overused! Furthermore, you could write 'P.E.E' in your notes, too, so you remember to write your point, give appropriate evidence and also give an explanation. 

If you have used paragraphs, have a strong introduction, middle and conclusion, have used punctuation appropriately, used a range of sentence structures (i.e. not all of your sentences should be short, some should be extended) and have answered the question which was asked, you should have completed your essay to the best of your ability!