How can I use the PEAL chain to avoid waffling?
It can often be difficult when answering an essay question to clearly phrase your answer without losing sight of your main point and waffling. An incredibly helpful way of improving your writing style is to follow the PEAL chain rule within each paragraph. PEAL stands for:
P - Point. Begin the paragraph with the overall point you want to make.
E - Evidence. Find evidence of your point such as a quote from within the text.
A - Analyse. Analyse your example from the text and how this reinforces your initial point.
L - Link. Remember to check that your paragraph is answering the question and ends in a way that you can link it to the opening of your following paragraph.
In following these steps, you should be able to decrease repetition and overwording your paragraphs, allowing you to write clearly and concisely.
Related English A Level answers
All answers ▸Explore the themes of love and/or religion in the poetry of John Donne
How should I structure an A Level English Literature Essay?
“Shakespeare’s depiction of evil in Macbeth is far more compelling than his depiction of virtue.” Discuss this point of view, supporting your answer with the aid of suitable reference to the text.
'Happy endings in the literature of love depend on problems being resolved and characters getting what they deserve' -- In the light of this view, discuss Shakespeare’s The Winter's Tale, in particular reference to the role of Paulina.