Write an essay plan

A good essay plan helps you arrange your ideas logically and stay on track during the writing process.

Your plan should state how you're going to prove your argument, including the evidence you're going to use. Structure your plan around the different parts of an essay. To do this:

  • Write your argument in one sentence at the top of the page – you'll flesh this out into your introduction.
  • Write three or four key points that you think will support your argument. Try to write each point in one sentence. These will become your topic sentences.
  • Under each point, write down one or two examples from your research that support your point. These can be quotes, paraphrased text from reliable authors, etc. Remember to reference your examples when you write up your essay.
  • Finally, write the main point you want to leave in your reader's mind – that's your conclusion.

 

It's hard to start essays early but the more time you have to plan, research and write, the better your essay will be.