How do you write the 'perfect' essay?

The concept of the 'perfect' essay is one which I believe every English enthusiast seeks to find yet not even the greatest writer, in my opinion, has achieved this. However, it is essential to recognise that this is a benefit as it highlights the dynamic nature of English; two students could create completely different responses to the same text with both being equally commendable. I realise that this answer is often frustrating for students seeking to pass exams and therefore I have set out to create a framework which can encompass all your excellent ideas; think of it as a toolkit which you can utilise in all essay-based tasks. Firstly, writing a concise clear and 'punchy' introduction is the key to grasp your readers/markers attention and illustrate your knowledge and writing abilities. An introduction requires two simple steps: state what you are explaining and list how/ what points you will use to illustrate this. Remember that precise and to the point is sometimes the most effective way of communicating. After this, my advice would be to take each point, one by one, and write a paragraph using the trusted 'PEAL' method. Step one is to make your point e.g. Iago deploys racist language and stereotypes to alarm Brabantio in Othello. Your point should state what you are arguing in one simple, clear sentence. Next, you need to use some evidence i.e. a quote in the text to strengthen your argument and validate your point ('an old black ram is tupping your white ewe'). The 'A' in PEAL stands for analysis and this is the moment for you to shine- this is where you show your understanding of the quotation and the author's intentions e.g. by employing animalistic imagery, Iago is able to tap into the racial concerns held in this era that other races were seen as inferior and un-humane, subsequently causing Desdemona's father to detest Othello, seeking to end the marriage (this would be more developed in a longer essay). The last step is to link this idea back to your original point showing how it is relevant to your argument- this can be a single sentence and is used to simply reiterate your point making it stronger and forcing the reader to understand your workings and logic. Repeat three/four times and this is the main body of your text complete! Finally, a conclusion is required to sum up what you have argument giving a brief overview of your points and the overall notion/idea/consensus that you have reached. Conclusions should never introduce new ideas but simply reinforce what you have stated and sum up the essay nicely. Essay writing takes time and practice and is not always simple but think of this as a toolkit or a recipe that will help!