The big idea: Use evidence by embedding short quotations and analysing the choice — every quotation must be there to prove a point, followed by analysis of HOW and WHY it works, never dropped in and left to speak for itself.
A quotation is not evidence until you've analysed it — on its own it just sits there.
Weave a few words of the text into your own sentence, then immediately analyse the CHOICE — the technique, its effect, and how it supports your argument. A quotation dropped in without analysis (‘This is shown when the writer says ‘…’.’) proves nothing. Make every quotation earn its place.
How to use evidence
Embed short quotations
Weave a few words into your own sentence — never long block quotes.
Analyse the choice
After the quote, name the technique and its effect — HOW and WHY it works.
Link to the argument
Show how the evidence proves the point you're making.
Make it earn its place
Every quotation should do a job — cut any that don't advance the argument.
The key move: Embed a short quotation, then analyse the choice (technique → effect → link to your argument). A quotation without analysis is not evidence yet.
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Why it matters in the exam: Evidence supports Criteria A (understanding, backed by the text) and B (analysis of choices). Embedded, analysed quotations show close knowledge AND analytical skill; dropped-in or over-long quotations show neither.
Improve this weak use of evidence: ‘The writer shows the character is lonely. This is shown when the writer says ‘the phone did not ring, and he was almost relieved’.’
Model answer plan
See the mark-by-mark plan — for / against / judgement, with marking guidance — in study mode.
Watch out: Two evidence failures: dropping a quote in without analysis ‘the writer says ‘…’.’, and long block quotations you don't unpack. Embed SHORT quotes and analyse the CHOICE every time.