First, one should always start with an introduction. This should include your thesis statement and a brief summary of the context of the period you will be wiritng about.Next, you should aim for 3-4 body paragraphs. Each paragraph generally follow the structure of PEE(D) - point, evidence, explanation and development - where you will be unpacking and developing your thesis statement.Lastly, you need to have a conclusion. This is basically a restatement of your introduction, where you are arriving at your final decision in the essay.