What is the best way to plan an essay?

When answering an essay question, the most important stage, in my view, is the planning. Personally, I like to make a mind map, but it really depends on what you feel the most comfortable with, and I recommend trying different options before choosing one. Next you need to come up with your core ideas. Every exam board has their specifications, but usually with history, all examiners like to see a debate within your paragraphs, supplied with historians' quotes, and evidence, with a mini conclusion at the end. I highly recommend jotting these down in your plan, so that when it comes to writing the essay, you can argue each point clearly and firmly, having already come to your arguments in your plan. Finally you can make brief notes on your introduction and conclusion, which I also recommend doing last, as your point of view might change as you write your key points down! It's very good exam practice to just make lots of plans for as many questions as possible, so you become quick at this. It should take you no more than 15 minutes in the actual exam to do.

EO
Answered by Emma O. History tutor

2260 Views

See similar History A Level tutors

Related History A Level answers

All answers ▸

‘Political intrigue explains why Hitler was able to become Chancellor in 1933.’ How far do you agree with this opinion?


Explain how the Nazi regime used the arts and media as a method of control in Germany between 1933-1939. (AS Level-12 marks)


Briefly explain the intentionalist-functionalist debate concerning the Holocaust.


To what extent did the Boer war strengthen Britain’s position, 1899-1914?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences