📐 Essay Structure
Good structure makes your essay easier to read and score. Every paragraph should have a clear purpose and connect logically to the next.
The PEEL Paragraph
Point
State your main idea in the topic sentence
Evidence
Provide facts, examples, or statistics to support your point
Explain
Analyse how the evidence supports your point
Link
Connect back to your thesis or transition to the next paragraph
Essay Writing Process
Plan (5 min)
Brainstorm ideas, choose your approach, outline 3-4 key points. Never skip planning!
Introduction (5 min)
Hook the reader, state your thesis clearly, preview your main arguments.
Body Paragraphs (30 min)
One main idea per paragraph. Use PEEL: Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link.
Conclusion (5 min)
Summarise key points, restate thesis differently, end with a memorable final thought.
Proofread (5 min)
Check spelling, grammar, tense consistency. Read backwards to catch errors!
Common Structural Mistakes
- Writing one giant paragraph with no breaks
- Starting every paragraph the same way ("Firstly... Secondly... Thirdly...")
- Introducing new ideas in the conclusion
- Writing an introduction that is longer than your body paragraphs
What does the 'E' in PEEL stand for?