How should I structure a GCSE style English Essay?

Writing an English Essay is more straightforward than most think! I would aim for 3 developed paragraphs with a short introduction and conclusion. Firstly, a comprehensive plan will help the whole essay to flow and make sure you include everything that you want. In an exam scenario, I would spend roughly 5 minutes planning. 2 minutes brainstorming all the ideas and then the final 3 minutes organising the brainstorm into three main paragraphs! Your introduction should be roughly three sentences and you should aim to mention the three main points you will talk about. The best way to organise the three main paragraphs is through the PEA structure taught at school. A clear, short starting sentence which is then followed by two or three quotes as evidence. We must remember to explain the context of the quotes when we are stating them as evidence. Analysis comes next and this is what will take up the majority of your paragraph. Try and say at least two things about each quote and be sure to relate each back to the question that you are given. A conclusion is essential to tie the essay together and finish on a high, it needs to be around 3 to 4 sentences and must certainly refer back to the question.