Should I use quotations in my essay?

It is important to use quotations in your essay as evidence for the point you are making. Use 'PEE' to remember the important steps you must follow when writing an essay.

Point - make your point that make sure it links back to your question.

Evidence - select a quotation from the text that you think you could use to evidence the point you are making.

Explanation- once you have selected your quote it is important to give your opinion. What are your views? What is the author trying to say? What is the context? 

Example: 'how is social class a key theme in Jane Eyre?' 

Point: Social class plays a key role in the relationship between Jane and Mr. Rochester. Class is the main cause of friction between the two characters: 

Evidence: 'you think because I am poor, obscure, plain and little, I am soulless and heartless?'

Explanation: This quotation shows Mr. Rochester perceives Jane as emotionally incapable because she is socially inferior. It is clear Mr. Rochester thinks class is civilizing is perhaps more emotionally developed because of his social authority. Class was a divisive feature of Victorian society. Jane and Mr. Rochester's relationship is a microcosm of that division in society. Class is a predominant feature of the novel that continuously threatens their relationship. 

It is really important to use this structure in order to answer the question. It will ensure your essay is guided by evidence and not your own opinion.