How to Structure an Essay (UK)
Quick answer: A UK academic essay has three parts: an introduction that sets up the topic and states your thesis/argument, a body of paragraphs each making one point with evidence and analysis (the PEEL structure), and a conclusion that summarises your argument and answers the question. Every paragraph should link back to the essay question.
The three-part structure
- Introduction — introduce the topic, define scope, state your thesis/argument and outline your structure.
- Body — several paragraphs, each developing one point with evidence and analysis.
- Conclusion — restate your argument, summarise key points, answer the question; no new evidence.
PEEL paragraphs
A reliable body-paragraph template is PEEL:
- Point — the topic sentence stating your point.
- Evidence — a source, example or data, cited.
- Explain — analyse how the evidence supports your point.
- Link — connect back to the question and to the next paragraph.
Write a clear thesis
Your thesis is the single controlling argument of the essay. State it explicitly in the introduction so the marker knows what you’re arguing and can follow your line of reasoning throughout.
Common structural mistakes
- Description instead of argument — UK essays reward analysis, not summary.
- Paragraphs with no clear point or no evidence.
- A conclusion that introduces new material.
- Not answering the actual question set.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PEEL structure?
A body-paragraph template: Point, Evidence, Explain, Link. It keeps each paragraph focused and analytical.
How long should an introduction be?
Roughly 10% of the essay — enough to introduce the topic, state your thesis and outline your structure.
Should the conclusion have new information?
No. The conclusion summarises your argument and answers the question; new evidence belongs in the body.
What is a thesis statement?
A single sentence in the introduction stating the central argument your essay will make and defend.
How many paragraphs should an essay have?
As many as your points require — there’s no fixed number. Each body paragraph should make one clear, evidenced point.