Start Strong: Your Essay Needs a Clear, Bold Argument
The opening line of your essay does far more than introduce the topic. It signals to the examiner whether you know exactly what you are arguing and where your answer is heading.
When the main argument is vague or overly safe, everything that follows can feel unfocused. Paragraphs lose direction, evidence feels randomly chosen and analysis becomes harder to sustain.
The mistake: starting an essay with a weak or unclear argument that fails to take a clear position.
Example: "Shakespeare presents Macbeth in different ways throughout the play."
This statement is technically true, but it does not say anything specific. A strong argument should make a clear claim about how Macbeth is presented and why that matters.
High-grade responses begin with a focused viewpoint that the rest of the essay can build on. This gives your paragraphs purpose, helps you select sharper evidence and makes your analysis feel deliberate rather than descriptive.
Why This Loses Marks
GCSE examiners look for a clear line of argument from the very first sentence. A weak introduction makes the entire answer less convincing, even if individual points are good.
Grade 9 answers are driven by a confident central argument that is developed and refined across the essay. Without that backbone, marks are left on the table.
Quick Recap
- Your introduction should state a clear, specific argument.
- Vague openings weaken the direction of the whole essay.
- Strong arguments lead to sharper analysis and higher marks.
