Quick questions on Writing introductions and conclusions explained: N(A)-Level Literature in English

A good introduction is short and goes straight to the point. Its main job is to answer the question with your thesis. You can briefly mention what the essay will cover (a preview of your points), but avoid filler like "There are many characters in this story" or "I will write about...". Get to your position quickly.

A conclusion should give the essay a sense of completeness by pulling your argument together and giving a final answer to the question. It can briefly draw your main points into a single overall judgement, for example confirming how the writer presents the character or theme, and end with a clear, final statement. The conclusion is your last chance to show you have answered the question, so make it count.

The most common conclusion mistake is simply repeating the introduction word for word, or relisting the points mechanically. That adds nothing. Instead, pull the threads together into a final thought: what, overall, has the essay shown about the question? A good conclusion feels like an arrival, not a copy of the start.

Starting with background or plot instead of answering the question. The introduction must state your position.

Ending mid-analysis with no closing thought. Pull the argument together and end on a clear final statement.

What is the main job of an introduction in a literature essay? [2 marks]

What should a conclusion do, beyond restating the introduction? [2 marks]

Name two common mistakes, one for introductions and one for conclusions. [3 marks]