In one line: Structure the HL essay: an introduction (line of inquiry + thesis) → body paragraphs that each develop one part of the argument → a conclusion that draws the argument together and answers ‘so what?’.
A clear structure lets your argument be seen — your reader should always know where they are and where the essay is going.
Introduction: name the work and your line of inquiry, then state your thesis (your answer). Body: each paragraph develops ONE step of the argument, opening with a topic sentence and building on the last. Conclusion: draw the argument together and land the ‘so what?’. Roughly 1,200–1,500 words across it all.
The essay's shape
Introduction
Name the work + line of inquiry, then state your thesis.
Body: one step per paragraph
Each paragraph develops one part of the argument, opening with a topic sentence.
Build across paragraphs
Order them so the argument develops (not a list of separate points).
Conclusion
Draw the argument together; answer ‘so what?’ — don't just summarise.
The key move: Use a clear shape: introduction (line of inquiry + thesis) → developed body paragraphs (one step each) → conclusion (draw together + ‘so what?’).
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Why it matters in the exam: Structure is central to Criterion C (focus, organisation AND development). A clear introduction, ordered developing paragraphs, and a real conclusion let your reader follow — and see — your argument; a shapeless essay hides even good analysis.
Outline the structure of an HL essay on the line of inquiry ‘How does the writer use setting to present isolation?’
Model answer plan
See the mark-by-mark plan — for / against / judgement, with marking guidance — in study mode.
Watch out: Don't write body paragraphs as a list of separate observations — order them so the argument DEVELOPS. And don't let the conclusion just summarise; it must draw together and answer ‘so what?’.