How do I plan an essay to get the maximum number of marks possible?

Firstly, read the question given very carefully; highlight the key words within the question - key characters, themes, and elements the examiner wants you to look for. Then, read the extract, again, very carefully, and highlight anything you can that relates to the question in hand. These will form the basis of your essay. Make notes of the key points you have gleaned from your annotation of the given text, as you will be able to expand on this to begin writing the essay. If the question asks you to use the whole novel, make a short list of any other scenes in the novel that are relevant to the question, and make a few short notes based on those scenes to use as a starting point. Writing the essay itself is fairly simple once you have your notes on what to include, just remember to use the question, use the extract and use the whole text.

EH
Answered by Eleanor H. English tutor

2005 Views

See similar English A Level tutors

Related English A Level answers

All answers ▸

What makes a good essay?


Compare how authors present the idea that men typically dominate relationships. (The Great Gatsby: F. Scott Fitzgerald - A song (Absent from Thee): John Wilmot - La Bella Dame sans Merci (John Keats)


Why did many Romantic poets express a dislike of cities?


To what extent do you agree that Briony is guilty of a crime in Atonement and should be held accountable? (25 marks)


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