PETAL Structure Explained: Build Strong Essay Paragraphs
Writing literature essays at university can feel like solving a tricky puzzle. You spend hours reading, highlighting, and writing, only to end up with paragraphs that seem jumbled or unclear. A 2024 HEPI survey found that over 60% of UK students say organizing their essays is the hardest part. That’s where the PETAL paragraph method really helps. It gives you a clear way to share ideas, include evidence, and analyze texts well. In this guide, we’ll look at what a PETAL paragraph is, why it matters, how to use it step-by-step, and common mistakes to avoid. With practice—and sometimes a little help—PETAL can make essay writing easier and less stressful. Why Students Find Literature Essays Tough Many students have good ideas but struggle to explain them clearly. Common problems include: Questions that are too broad, leading to unclear answers. Adding quotes without explaining them. Paragraphs that stray off-topic or repeat the same points. A 2023 report by the Office for Students s...