Essay-based exams are a staple of A Level History, challenging students to demonstrate their understanding, analysis and critical thinking skills.
Whether you’re studying under AQA, OCR, Edexcel (or any other A Level History exam board for that matter), mastering effective essay writing techniques is essential for exam success.
In this guide, we’ll explore 10 strategies and tips to help you excel in your A Level History exams, regardless of the topic or exam board.
Let’s get started.
1. Understand the question
It’s a classic bit of exam advice, but before diving into your essay, carefully read and analyse the question.
Identify the key terms and requirements, such as “compare”, “analyse”, “evaluate”, or “assess”. What does the mark scheme want when these words are used? To make sure you’re clear, check mark schemes and exam guidance for your specific exam board and topics.
This will guide your approach and ensure you stay focused on addressing the specific demands of the question.
2. Plan your response
Having understood the question, take the time to plan your essay before you start writing. This is essential!
Create a clear and structured outline that includes your introduction, main arguments, supporting evidence, and conclusion. This should only be brief notes, done in a few minutes – but it will really help you stay on track.
Planning helps you organise your thoughts coherently and ensures a logical flow of ideas throughout your essay. Demonstrating these skills is vital for top marks, no matter which A Level History exam board you’re studying with.
3. Develop a strong thesis statement
Your thesis statement is just a sentence that outlines your argument or position on the topic. It should be clear and short, coming right at the start of your essay.
A strong thesis statement sets the direction for your essay and provides a roadmap for your readers to follow. Make sure it’s concise, specific – and supported by the evidence you’re about to outline in your essay.
4. Use evidence effectively
Which neatly brings us onto… backing up your arguments with relevant evidence from primary and secondary sources.
Quote, paraphrase or summarise evidence to support your points and demonstrate your in-depth understanding of the topic. Remember to critically evaluate the reliability and significance of the sources you use.
A word of caution: use your evidence selectively. You only have a short amount of time at A Level, so don’t fall into the trap of just listing everything you know about a topic. Evidence should only be used judiciously to support your arguments.
5. Engage with Historiography
Demonstrate your awareness of different historical interpretations and debates surrounding the topic (this is known as Historiography). As part of your revision, learn about key historians and schools of thought, and think about how their perspectives shape your own analysis.
By including historians’ perspectives (either to support your own arguments or argue against them) shows depth of understanding and critical engagement with the subject matter.
6. Structure your essay
Organise your essay into clear paragraphs, each focusing on a specific aspect of your argument.
Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main point of the paragraph, followed by supporting evidence and analysis (including any counter arguments). Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs to maintain coherence and flow.
If you’ve created a quick plan before you start writing – this should, hopefully, come naturally!
7. Be concise and precise
Aim for clarity and precision in your writing. Historians hate “fluff”, so avoid unnecessary jargon or verbose language that may obscure your argument.
Remember, you won’t have long to write your essays in your A Level History exams. So make every word count, and always strive for clarity and coherence in your writing.
8. Consider counterarguments
Acknowledge and address counterarguments to your thesis. This demonstrates intellectual rigour and shows you’ve considered multiple perspectives. It’s a high level skill that’s expected at university level – so will definitely impress A Level examiners!
That said, make sure you refute counterarguments effectively and reaffirm the strength of your own argument. Don’t just include a counter argument for the sake of it, otherwise you could run the risk of a confused-sounding essay.
9. Conclude effectively
Summarise your main arguments (i.e. what you’ve said in each paragraph) and restate your thesis statement in the conclusion.
Avoid introducing new information or arguments at this stage. Instead, reflect on the broader implications of your findings and leave the reader with a thought-provoking closing statement.
10. Proofread and revise
Finally, take the time to proofread and revise your essay before submitting it. If all has gone to plan, you should have 10 minutes or so at the end of your exam.
Check for basic spelling and grammar errors, as well as the clarity and coherence of your arguments. Consider seeking feedback from your friends, parents or teachers (in advance of exams!) to help you identify areas for improvement. It’s actually great if it’s someone who isn’t familiar with your History topics – as they’ll be able to let you know whether they understand everything you’re saying.
In summary
By following these ten essay writing techniques, you’ll maximise your performance in essay-based exams, not only for A Level History, but other subjects too.
Remember to practise regularly, spend time memorising key facts, engage critically with historical sources, and always strive for clarity and coherence in your writing.
A Level History can certainly be challenging, but with dedication and perseverance, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle even the trickiest essay questions in your final exams.
Good luck! Any specific questions? Just let me know.
As a Personal Tutor and an ex-History A Level student myself, with an MA in History and Philosophy from the University of St Andrews and an M.Phil in History from Bristol University, I’m on hand for any essay-writing queries or concerns.
