Structure
Essay Planning
Organise your ideas quickly under exam pressure
Why Planning Matters
Students who plan consistently score higher than those who dive straight in. A plan takes 3–5 minutes but saves you from mid-essay panic, repetition, and structural collapse.
Key Fact
The best plans are quick, flexible frameworks. A numbered list of 3–4 points, each with a key quote, is all you need.
The 4-Minute Plan
- 1Minute 1: Underline key words — What is the question asking? Note command words.
- 2Minute 2: List 3–4 main points — Order to show development (beginning → middle → end, or simple → complex).
- 3Minute 3: Add a quote for each — First few words to ensure evidence is ready.
- 4Minute 4: Note one context point — The most relevant contextual link.
Plan Templates
| Question Type | Plan Structure |
|---|---|
| Extract + wider text | P1–2: Extract. P3–4: Wider text. Each: technique + quote + effect + context. |
| Whole text essay | Thesis + P1 (beginning) + P2 (middle) + P3 (end/climax) + conclusion. |
| Comparison | P1–4: Each compares both texts on one point. Comparative connectives throughout. |
Common Planning Mistakes
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Not planning at all | Even 2 minutes improves coherence. Force the habit. |
| Writing a full draft as the plan | Plans should be brief: a few key words per point. |
| Planning only (plot) | Include techniques (AO2) and context (AO3) in your plan. |