In our part one blog on exam question we mentioned the need to read the question. This is just as important in essay questions! Typically essay questions are asking you to choose between two different points of view. Would it be a good idea for the UK to have a written constitution? Should the Human Rights Act be amended? Is trial by jury the best way to secure justice? Make sure you understand which two points of view are before you. Then decide which one you agree with. It shouldn’t matter in the exam marking scheme which choice you make. It’s how you argue your point and the knowledge of the existing law you demonstrate as you write your answer which will determine your success.

You might want to define some terms in your introductory paragraph. In the constitution example you’d need to talk about the elements of our constitution, legislation, convention, separation of powers etc. Compare this to a country where everything is written down in one place. Then put up a great big sign. Which direction are you going in for your essay? Do you agree with the premise or not? Tell your reader.

The essay needs to deal both with your arguments in favour of your point of view and with the arguments on the other side. How you do this is up to you. We suggest you might start with the arguments which don’t align with your point of view. Set them out and then demolish them, going on to set out and approve the arguments in favour of the line you are taking. An alternative approach is to match arguments with counter arguments and deal with two together in each paragraph. It doesn’t matter which approach you take but make sure you deal with those pesky arguments which don’t support your viewpoint. Never ignore them.

Round off with a nice conclusion emphasising your confidence in your arguments. Next up in the blog will be some writing tips.