How do I structure an essay?

First of all, it's important to read the question thoroughly, perhaps highlight or underline any key terms so you have a good idea of exacty what you're being asked. Then, always spend some time planning (even in an exam!); if there were any key terms (eg. 'the American Dream', 'love') spend some time thinking about definitions of these words, and how they might be explored (eg. romantic or familial love, unrequited love). You should come up with around 3 main points/arguments (depending on the length of the essay), and jot down any thoughts you have on these, as well as any quotes or context that may be usefull for each. These will then make up the main body of your essay. Your introduction should then set out the structure of the rest of your essay ("I'm going to discuss this, then this, then this.") and can also include any extra bits of context. Then, simply write the paragraphs you've already sketched out. I like to structure my essays by first of all agreeing with the question, and then challenging or even disagreeing with it in the second or third paragraphs. Your conclusion should then give a brief summary of your essay, and finish with a strong argument (this is usually in relation to the point made in your final paragraph).