How do I write a good essay plan?

Before starting any research or secondary reading, it is important to establish your line of argument because this will help to direct your essay and make sure you answer the question.

A good tip would be: if you can't define your argument in one sentence then it isn't properly developed. 

Once you've got your argument done, pick your top three or four points (depending on the essay length) and write bullet points under each one of the sub points you will make in that paragraph. 

Once you've got your argument and paragraph plan, you can start gathering quotations and secondary sources to support your essay.

JM
Answered by Joy M. English Literature tutor

5479 Views

See similar English Literature A Level tutors

Related English Literature A Level answers

All answers ▸

Please could you explain this quote for me from "A Streetcar Named Desire"? "They told me to take a street-car named Desire, and transfer to one called Cemeteries, and ride six blocks and get off at—Elysian Fields!"


How should I weave context into my answer?


Write a critical appreciation of this extract from 'The Castle of Otranto', relating your discussion to your reading of the Gothic.


How would I do a close reading of an unseen extract?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning