How do I write an A* level history essay?

You need to remember that your essay is going to be read. What I mean by this is that your essay must be easy to understand and follow. This will make it easier for the examiner/teacher to give you those top marks. How do you do this? What you need to do, is to follow a structure in your essay that ultimately leads to one goal, answering the question. Start with an introduction, briefly outlining the points you will be making. Then comes the real meat and potatoes of your essay, your points. Depending on the question, 3-5 paragraphs. You need to follow the PEA structure for your paragraphs; point, example and analysis. This is important as it gives you proper direction in how to get your argument across. Conclusion involves you summarising your points, making fully sure that you have answered the question. Of course, knowledge is crucial in the form of dates and figures.