How should I structure my points in an essay?

One good method of structuring your points is the 'PEAL' method. This means, point, evidence, analysis, then link to the next point or paragraph. This might sound complicated, but it's really easy and helpful when you get to grips with it.

Firstly, you write out your 'point', summarising what you are going to say. For instance, when writing about Of Mice and Men, you could say 'Steinbeck uses animal imagery when describing Lennie.'

You'd then evidence this with a quote. For instance, you could say 'Lennie is described as being like a 'bear' that 'drags its paws', as well as being 'strong as a bull.'

Next, you'd analyse the quotes you've just used, to illustrate your point. Here you can point out key features of the words and their effect. So, in this instance you'd talk about the effects of the animalistic similes. One of these could be that they suggest Lennie has a lower level of intellect than those around him, and instead works on an instinctual level.

To really polish off your point, it's great to then create a link to what you're going to be talking about next. You could say 'this is similar to when....' or 'this contrasts with....' or 'Steinbeck develops upon this later by...'. The link can be your next point!