How would you structure a history essay introduction?

For the introduction, It really needs to be a plan of the essay you're going to write and set out a clear plan for the examiner of the paragraphs you're going to write and your point of view throughout the essay. 

To write an introduction you would usually follow this layout for a non-source orientated question- Point, Rank (Starting with the most important/signficant factor), Knowledge, Explain, Evaluate, Link onwards.

Here are some examples from an essay that I wrote that was marked at 24/25 for A level History. 

Point- This has to be a clear statement, showing that you have a clear, concise opinion which is consistent throughout the essay. 

Point- 'The Second Boer War from 1899-1902 highlighted and instigated several...'

Rank- Throughout the essay you need to make it clear which point/event is the most important/significant and explain your reasoning briefly.

Ranking: 'The most significant consequence was the weakening of ‘Pax Britannica’; the period in which...'

HS
Answered by Helena S. History tutor

8948 Views

See similar History A Level tutors

Related History A Level answers

All answers ▸

How far did religion affect side-taking in the English Civil War?


"The role of the sheriff saw the most important changes in English local government in the period 1066-1215" How far do you agree with this statement?


Why is the American Civil War sometimes referred to as the War of Northern Aggression?


How far do you agree that the development of the Cold War between 1945 and 1953 was due to ideological differences?


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