You may have seen me yapping about this on my TikTok page but its true, you cannot get beyond a C/B without a good structure, so steal mine! The PEEAJ system is your framework for high-level analysis. 1. Point: Start with a mini-argument. Use The "Because" Test: Every point must end with "because" followed by a specific reason. If you can't add a "because," your point is too weak 2. Evidence Every piece of evidence must include a specific date, name, or number to prove you have specific, detailed and precise knowledge 3. Explanation: Use the "This Meant That" Formula. Tell me the effect/consequence of that evidence and HOW this LINKS BACK to the question 4. Counter- Argument ( The A* Differentiator): Counter argument menu: Limitation: OR Alternative Factor OR Time Period OR Historian Disagreement 5. Judgment: Explicitly link back to the question to ensure a consistent focus. Use the "Question Echo" - Echo the key words of the question to provide a mini conclusion of that factor Most essays I mark are missing one of these five steps. Which part do you struggle with most: Point, Evidence, Explanation, Counter-Argument, or Judgment?

What’s ONE piece of advice you’d give your Year 12 self for A-Level History? What do you wish you knew earlier? Year 12s 👀 Go through and like the advice you find useful (and ask questions if you don’t understand something).

Let me know below and when the deadline is, I might have some free resources that can help you!

Comment: • your exam board • your current topic

Can anyone give some tips on how to write a A* conclusion? I just got an essay back today and was told I would have hit level 5 if my conclusion was better.