How should I structure a good English Literature essay?

Use the mark schemeIt is important to really understand the mark scheme for your particular exam board and qualification to see exactly what they are looking for. Often the mark scheme will include different weightings for different things that they expect to see in the essay. Once you understand what should be included and how much should be included, it becomes a lot easier to structure each paragraph.
ParagraphingIn the introduction, answer the question straight away in a single sentence as this creates clarity and a sense that you are in control of the essay. Then briefly state what the main points of the essay will be. In the main body, Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence. Move on to cover the assessment objectives mentioned in your mark scheme and then finish with a concluding sentence that brings the paragraph back to the question. In the conclusion, make sure to answer the question and hammer home the points you have made throughout your essay. Once you get more comfortable with your course content and writing essays, sometimes it can be quite impressive to open up the conclusion at the end to consider a wider scope, however this is really not a necessity and comes with developing your own writing style.
RelevancyMake sure you are answering the question! Underline the key words and bring them into your essay a lot. It shows you are focussed on the question and that what you are saying is relevant. You can use synonyms sometimes so that your essay is more varied, but in the opening and concluding sentences of each paragraph it is often good to use the words of the question.