How do you approach an English essay?

Firstly, I would begin by highlighting key words in the essay question as this will help you formulate an argument that is relevant and that directly addresses the question. With these key words in mind, begin to jot down roughly any ideas that you think pertain to this particular essay question but remember to focus on the words that you have highlighted so that your ideas remain pertinent. Once you have done this, try to look for a theme that encompasses all or some of your ideas. If you can't do this, take your best idea and try to expand on this. This will enable you to develop your main argument that will run throughout your essay. This argument will be your starting point and you should express this argument clearly in your introduction. Furthermore, every paragraph should start and end by reaffirming this argument but the bulk of your paragraphs will provide evidence and deal with the analysis of this evidence.

EM
Answered by Emma M. English Literature tutor

4359 Views

See similar English Literature A Level tutors

Related English Literature A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I best use my knowledge for a question when the question doesn't seem relevant?


Discuss ways in which Keats connects art and timelessness in ‘Ode on a Grecian Urn’.


"With close reference to his poetry, consider the ways in which W.H. Auden explores the concept of suffering in his poetry."


"He is far gone:" do you think Hamlet is mad any point during the play?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning