Curriculum fit: GCSE English Language and English Literature (essay and extended writing). US: Common Core ELA Writing standards (argument and informative writing, grades 9-12).
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What Is It?
A good essay has a clear structure that guides the reader from your main argument to your conclusion. Planning before you write saves time and stops you from wandering off topic.
A basic essay has an introduction, several body paragraphs and a conclusion. Each part has a job, and every paragraph should relate back to the question.
Key Formulas and Ideas
- Introduction: respond to the question, give brief context and state your argument (thesis).
- Body paragraphs: one main point each, with evidence and explanation (PEEL or CER).
- Conclusion: sum up your argument and answer the question, without adding new evidence.
- Plan first: read the question, underline key words, list 3 to 5 points, and put them in a logical order.
Worked Examples
Planning
Plan an essay for: 'Should homework be banned?'
- Underline the key words: 'homework' and 'banned'.
- Decide a position, for example that homework should be limited, not banned.
- List points: it supports learning, too much causes stress, quality matters more than quantity.
- Order them from strongest to weakest, or with a logical flow.
✓ Answer A plan with a clear position and 3 ordered points
Introduction
Write an introduction sentence that responds to the question.
- Restate the topic in your own words.
- Give your position clearly.
✓ Answer Homework is a useful tool for learning, but it should be limited so that students have time to rest.
Conclusion
What should a conclusion do?
- Return to the question.
- Summarise the main points briefly.
- Finish with a final judgement.
✓ Answer Answer the question and summarise, without new points
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting to write without a plan.
- Writing an introduction that only repeats the question.
- Adding new evidence in the conclusion.
- Paragraphs that make several unrelated points.
Practice Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I spend planning in an exam?
A short plan of a few minutes is usually worthwhile. Follow the advice for your exam board and paper.
Should I include a counter-argument?
For argument essays, yes. Acknowledge another view briefly and explain why your position is stronger.
Keep Going With These Guides
How to Write a Thesis Statement (With Strong Examples)
Turn a topic into a clear, arguable claim for your essay, with a simple formula, weak and strong examples and a quick test.
GCSEA-LevelHigh SchoolAPPEEL and CER Paragraphs: How to Structure Analysis
Build clear paragraphs with PEEL (UK) or Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (US), with worked examples for English and science answers.
KS3GCSEA-LevelMiddle School+2Connectives and Transition Words: Link Your Ideas Smoothly
Use linking words to connect ideas within and between paragraphs so your writing flows, with examples for each type.
KS3GCSEMiddle SchoolHigh SchoolSources and Review
- DfE: National curriculum in England, English programmes of study
- Common Core State Standards: English Language Arts and Literacy
Reviewed by StudyMorrow editorial review on 5 Nov 2026.