Avoid the temptation to plunge straight into the reading list, and instead devote time to thinking hard about what the question is really asking of you. Consider all the aspects of the topic at hand, and decide what reading will be necessary in order to answer the question, making use of the reading list and other relevant course material. Remember: the task of the writer is to respond to the question asked, and you will need to demonstrate your ability to select material relevant to the subject.
             The most difficult part of writing an essay is often the building of a clear and logical structure. Tutors frequently comment on essays which are well-researched but which fail to establish any logical or coherent progression of ideas. Weakness here inevitably damages the overall effect of the essay, but this can be remedied by devoting sufficient time to planning before putting pen to paper. This may seem like a chore, but in fact will save you time in the long run. Think of all the time wasted waiting for inspiration, wondering what to write after the first paragraph.
             Once you have a clear idea of the material you intend to cover, this can be broken down into sections and sub-sections. This should help to guide your reading, aid note-taking, and will be invaluable preparation when you come to write your essay.
             Your aim here is to provide a context for the ideas which will be examined in the main body, and there are a number of ways of doing this. For example, many essay titles include terms which will require careful definition, and this should be done in the introduction so as to lead onto more detailed analysis later. Similarly, some titles might refer to expressions of established opinion on the topic concerned. A brief interpretation here can pave the way for more detailed examination of the pertinent arguments later. The essay may also require a space/time location t
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