SQA Higher English Critical Essay Prose Fiction: PLEASE HELP!!

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stay relevant to the question, ALWAYS!! make sure you briefly mention something related to the question at the start and end of every main body paragraph. sqa like consistency!

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CONTRAST!! if you can compare or contrast things in your text, do it. for example, i’m my advanced higher dissertation i’m looking at contrasting times where certain themes are portrayed, ex: identity.

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use your n5 techniques! it’s the same in higher, make sure you always show strong knowledge of the basics, like imagery and word choice. if you can pick up on any more advanced techniques, like symbolism, do it.

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pick versatile quotes!! this one is so important. i saved myself LOADS of time instead of memorising quotes, i picked a smaller amount that could be used to analyse a variety of themes. i would also recommend quoting scenes as the sqa allows this, ex: instead of “she said this” you can say “when this scene happens” if that makes sense.

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reread and understand the question fully! i know this sounds stupid but sometimes i find myself getting carried away on a tangent. bring a highlighter w you so you can keep track of what the question actually is!!