Describe the main functions of political parties in the UK today.

We must first identify precisely what the question is asking of us. This is an example of a "Describe..." question, which for A-Level Politics does not require analysis as much as explanation. I suggest using the 'PEE' structure (Point, Explain, Example) for such a question. It also asks for the "main functions", so we want to be sure to cover all the major functions of political parties, and add less significant ones only if we have time.Paragraph 1. The main purpose of political parties is to represent. Individuals within a party tend to share the same political ideology and citizens can vote for policy-makers who are in line with their interests and views. So, for example, the Labour Party in the UK traditionally represents working class interests while the Conservatives tend to promote policies more in the interests of big businesses and the more well-off.Paragraph 2. Another prime function of political parties is to recruit and train leaders. In the UK parliamentary system, 'leaders', such as the leaders of departments or shadow departments and of the Government, will generally be required to work their way up, starting as an MP, then being promoted to junior and minor cabinet positions before rising to lead major departments and even the Government. During this process, MPs gain vital experience and knowledge which ensures they are well-equipped to lead the country. The allocation of these positions is generally determined by either the membership or the leadership of the political parties. For example, Theresa May was Chairwoman of the Conservative Party, then Minister for Women and Equalities and Home Secretary before becoming Prime Minister in 2016.Paragraph 3. A third important function of political parties is to educate the public and facilitate debate. Parties consider and adopt policies and then are made to defend them by opposing parties. There are many opportunities to do this, including on televised debates like Question Time, in Parliament such as during floor debates or during Prime Ministers Questions, or during campaigning. For example, in 2015 the leaders of the main UK political parties participated in TV debates where they debated policies and tried to explain why the public should favour their policies.Conclusion. A simple conclusion will do, restating the three main functions of political parties and directly answering the question.