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championed by so-and-so; and that opinion, advocated by another so-and-so. In this essay we shall see that this side is better/has more explanatory power/ is more compelling, than that side. First we shall look at what they have to say, then we'll look at what we have to say. Then we'll see that our argument is the best.'

Reiteration of the fact that your argument is best is a good move if not done to excess. A good, concise, killer quote is really good in the intro but it must be a neutral one.

Part one

Make sure your reader hasn't forgotten what is going to happen next:

'Now we will look at the opposing argument. Adherents to/ proponents of/ the main advocate for this point of view would say:'

This is where you carefully, point by point, spell out the oppositions argument. Each point needs to be supported with a quote or an example.

Mention questions raised which will be answered by your argument so that your reader knows that he is about to be disenchanted of any illusions this section may have given him:

'So-and-so does have a point but leaves out'

Do a mini conclusion, a summary of the oppositions arguments, it's strengths and, most importantly, it's weaknesses.

Part 2

Present your own argument. Again do this point by point, support every point with a referenced quote or example. Whenever you can get a dig in at the opposition, do so:

'As we saw above so-and-so would disagree with this but he is wrong because as (a different) so-and-so would say'.

'That side, as we saw, failed to take account of so-and-so's theory of whatchamacallit which proves this side is better.'

Finish up with a summary of your argument and the reasons it is better than the other.

Conclusion

To make sure your reader has understood what has just happened to them, tell them again:

'We have examined two perspectives on the subject. Although the opposition had some good arguments, because of this and this, it is clear that I'm right because of this and this. If you can, finish off with a killer quote.

The Essay

Now you have your evidence gathered and your structure clear in your mind you can plan your essay.

Use a separate piece of paper for each part of the essay. Write a list of key words and phrases. Next to them write page numbers etc for your quotes and examples. Do this as thoroughly as possible and the writing of the essay itself will be a breeze.

Look over your plan and reorganise it. Make sure each point follows from the one before and is supported. If necessary, draw a line around each point and number them so that they are in the right order.

Now you are ready to write. Remember: if your structure is right, you won't go far wrong.

Here are some more very important points:

STAY ON TOPIC.
I'll say it again for emphasis ('This is Red 4 to Red 5, my transponders come loose'):
STAY ON TOPIC

Every single sentence must count towards your argument. Brief asides can be good to add colour but they must be brief. Don't just splurge everything you know on the subject if it doesn't help with the argument. Wandering off the topic drives assessors crazy.

Use plenty of sign-posting: 'We will now', 'As we have just seen' etc. You don't want your reader to get lost.

Give referenced definitions where absolutely necessary but don't make the mistake of using them to fill up space.

Keep it formal. Don't use first person.

Write a reference, ie a list of where your quotes and examples have come from. Include page numbers.

Write a bibliography. This is a chance to show off all the sources you at least glanced through in writing your paper and an extra chance to impress.

Learn more about this author, Briar Shaw.
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