How do I structure a good essay?

A good essay structure is essential for expressing your ideas clearly and showing the examiner that you know what you are talking about. Always make sure that your essay includes an introduction, a body and a conclusion.

The introduction

An introduction should rephrase or unpack the question, outlining what you are going to explore in your essay and explaining why this is significant. For instance, if your essay question is "How is power presented in King Lear?", you should outline the different forms of power present in the text (verbal, royal, physical, emotional) and their significance to the play overall.

The Body

The body of your essay should consist of continous and focused analysis. Each paragraph should have a theme or idea behind it, introduced with a topic sentence. You should then quote significant examples and explain how or why language is used, or the themes which are dislayed by it. Then analyse the effect of this, whether this is to make the audience sympathize, to make them laugh or purely to convey information. Make sure you address the question at all times.

The conclusion

A good conclusion is important to round off your essay. Even if you feel like you don't have time, always try to write a few sentences at the end, summarizing your argument and again exploring the significance and impact of what you have analysed.