how to start a to what extent essay

How to answer a “to what degree/extent” essay question

One of the most popular question types to appear on History assessment tasks is one that starts with the phrase, “To what extent/degree...”.

Despite the fact that it appears so frequently, particularly on exam papers , some teachers and students are not sure how to correctly write a response to it.

Thankfully, "to what degree/extent" questions are relatively easy to understand and to write a sophisticated response to, as long as you know what they are specifically asking you to do.

In this blog post, I will explain what such questions are asking you to do and give you some practical tips on how to write an essay response to a “To what extent/degree” question so that you feel confident in your assessment pieces.

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Understanding the question

First of all, it is crucial to understand the purpose of the word “degree” or “extent” in this kind of question. Regardless of which of the two words are used, they mean exactly the same thing: they are asking you to assign a degree of importance to how influential or important a particular factor is regarding the topic at hand.

A useful way of conceptualising the degree of importance , is to think of a simple scale that you could measure it against:

Most of the time, a "to what degree/extent” question is ultimately asking you to decide a single factor’s importance in comparison to another, potentially equally important factor. In other words, you need to argue which of two things is the most important.

Therefore, you will say that one of the two factors was “ to a greater degree ” important, while the other is “ to a lesser extent ” important.

It is rare that this kind of question will require you to say that only one factor was the only important element in regards to a topic. Any event in history is a complex combination of multiple factors, and it is too simplistic to assign only one factor to any topic.

That is why this kind of question is so popular with essays about historical causation , consequences or significance in History exams. These topics acknowledge that there are multiple factors which contributed to a historical event or idea. 

Example essay questions

Sometimes, the question itself will provide you with the two elements that it wants you to compare. For example:

“To what degree was political ideology more important in Hitler’s rise to power than the economic conditions in Germany in the early 1930s?” 

As you can see in this “to what degree” question, it is asking you to decide whether “political ideology” was “more important” than “the economic conditions in Germany in the early 1930s”. Therefore, in your answer to this question, you need to clearly state which you think was “more important”.

Here is another example: 

“To what extent did the Black Death in 14th century Europe decrease the papacy’s cultural influence in comparison to the political scandals within the curia?” 

Once more, it is easy to identify what you are being asked to decide between: whether “the Black Death in 14th century Europe” or “the political scandals within the curia” was more important in causing the decline of “the papacy’s cultural influence”.

However, sometimes an essay question will only give you one factor, in which case you will need to choose the second factor to compare it against.

For example 

“To what degree was Julius Caesar’s assassination the result of his own hubris?” 

In this example, the question only gives you “his own hubris” as one important element. Therefore, you will need to decide, based upon your own historical knowledge and the sources supplied, something else to compare it against.

It is still important, though, that you still come to a conclusion about which of the two elements was the most important.

How to structure your answer to the question (the hypothesis)

Once you have identified the two elements you are going to compare in your answer, you need to decide which of the two you are going to assign most importance to.

When you write your answer to the essay question (which will become your hypothesis ), you have to ensure that you clearly state which of the two options you have decided is the most important. You can use the following cues to identify the greater and lesser factors:

“[Factor 1] was, to a greater degree , more important in [the Topic] than [Factor 2] because...” 

“[Factor 1] was the main cause of [the Topic] despite the role of [Factor 2] because...” 

“While [Factor 2] did play a role in [the Topic], [Factor 1] was by far the most significant element because...”

As you can see in these example structures, you need to:

• clearly state the two topics you’re comparing
• mention the topic to which they relate
• have a clear decision about which of the two factors are most important to the topic

Also, don't forget to provide clear reasons for your decision after the “because” in your hypothesis.

How to structure your essay

 Once you have decided which of the two factors was the most important and which was the least important, then you can start planning your essay paragraphs .

Since essays typically require you to follow the standard five-paragraph structure ( introduction paragraph , three body paragraphs , and a conclusion paragraph ), you know that you will have three body paragraphs available for arguing your decision.

• In two out of your three body paragraphs, provide two separate reasons for why one factor was the most important  
• In the third of your body paragraphs, talk about the lesser contributing factor  

This helps us to use a simple structure to respond to a “to what degree/extent” essay question:

Here is a visual representation of the structure to help you:

By dividing your three body paragraphs in this way, you devote two-thirds of your essay to the most important of the two factors, and then one-third to the lesser of the two factors.

At the start of each body paragraph, then, you need a clear topic sentence that provides a reason why this factor was important. Ensure that you have two separate reasons to support the factor you’ve chosen as the most important, and one for the lesser of the two factors.

For example: 

Topic sentence for body paragraph 1: 

“[Factor 1] was the most important element in [the Topic] because...” 

Topic sentence for body paragraph 2: 

“Another reason that [Factor 1] was the most important element in [the Topic] is because...” 

Topic sentence for body paragraph 3:  

“To a lesser degree, [Factor 2] was important to [the Topic] because...”

Some rare exceptions

The advice provided above will serve you well in replying to almost all “to what degree/extent” essay questions. However, here are some rare exceptions which you might need to watch out for, along with some quick advice for how to deal with them.

Some questions may ask you to compare three separate factors. On these occasions, the question is probably guiding you to argue that all three factors were of equal importance. Typically, you can assign each factor to a body paragraph and provide one reason why each element was a contributing factor.

Some questions may ask you to only assign a degree of importance to only one factor, without expecting you to provide a second alternative. In short, if this happens, it is probably a poorly written question.

Essay questions that require the analysis and explanation of only one factor should probably be a “how” or “why” question, rather than a “to what degree/extent” question. Firstly, check with your teacher about if they really do only want one factor considered and ask how they intend for you to answer the question.

Additional resources

For additional resources on how to write all the elements in a History essay, please check out the following scaffolding guide , which has examples of full paragraphs to help you out. 

For advice on other kinds of exam questions, read over the exam question advice section .

Write a comment

Kim Brett ( Tuesday, 01 September 2020 23:32 )

As always, you've got your finger on the pulse, Michael. My students at Our Lady's College Annerley really appreciate your posts. Best wishes

History Skills ( Wednesday, 02 September 2020 02:13 )

My absolute pleasure, Kim. So good to hear that your students are finding the information helpful. Please say 'hello' to them for me and tell them I wish them all the best for their upcoming assessment.

Jeffery ( Friday, 18 December 2020 16:41 )

Hello, I am unsure how to formulate a thesis to this question, can you help me. "To what extent were the American colonists justified in revolting against England?"

Mutsawashe (Tuesday 15 June) ( Tuesday, 15 June 2021 15:29 )

please help me answer this question,"how far did the Germans benefit from the social policy ".My answer should start with ,the Germans benefited from the social policy to a lesser extent. So what comes next.

sharon odawa ( Thursday, 02 September 2021 01:12 )

my question is."to what extent does common and equity law a source of kenya"please help

maddison ( Sunday, 07 November 2021 03:06 )

this has literally saved me so much time on my assessments.

Karina Doherty ( Wednesday, 10 November 2021 17:26 )

It is possible to ask a well written 'to what extent' question that does not require a comparison, but only asks students to provide a judgement about a degree of success. There will naturally be a discussion about factors that limited the success or impact of a particular event or policy, but this is not really a comparison. The question could still be a perfectly valid and well-written.

Christina ( Monday, 13 June 2022 02:19 )

Great advice! Would be great if you correct the reference to a hypothesis. The correct word hers is "thesis".

Queenest ( Wednesday, 12 October 2022 17:41 )

Thank God I came across this article. It has been a blessing to me. Thank you so much

Ishmael ogechi ( Wednesday, 28 June 2023 10:59 )

Can an extent be used in questionnaire construction to elicit responds from respondents? Please may I know the firs scholar that used this term or introduced it in research work and when? Thank you.

Joy ( Wednesday, 18 October 2023 08:32 )

Can a ''to what extent'' question be used for the prevalence of the disease in two different parts of the world?

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How to Answer To What Extent Questions: A Step-by-Step Guide

Answering “To what extent” questions is an essential skill for any student or professional looking to engage in critical analysis and provide nuanced perspectives on a given topic. These types of questions require the writer to thoroughly evaluate and explore different facets of an issue, rather than simply providing a black and white response. By understanding the underlying principles and following a step-by-step approach, individuals can confidently navigate through these complex questions and deliver well-rounded and informed answers.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to answer “To what extent” questions effectively. We will start by defining what these questions entail and why they are important in various academic and professional settings. Subsequently, we will outline a step-by-step process that will assist readers in structuring their responses and developing a clear and cohesive argument. Additionally, we will discuss common pitfalls to avoid and provide practical examples to illustrate the application of these techniques. Whether you are a student preparing for an exam, a researcher formulating a thesis statement, or a professional seeking to enhance your critical thinking skills, this guide will equip you with the necessary tools to confidently engage with “To what extent” questions.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Question

A. define “to what extent” questions.

To effectively answer “to what extent” questions, it is crucial to first understand what these types of questions entail. “To what extent” questions require an evaluation and analysis of a given topic or statement, exploring the degree to which it is true or valid. These questions aim to assess the depth and breadth of knowledge on a specific subject matter, requiring a thoughtful evaluation rather than a simple yes or no response.

B. Discuss the different variations of such questions

“To what extent” questions can take various forms and may involve different scopes and parameters. Some common variations include asking about the significance, impact, or influence of a particular factor, the level of agreement or disagreement with a statement, or the extent to which a theory or concept applies to a specific case or situation. Understanding the specific variation of the question is essential in formulating a well-rounded response.

C. Provide examples to clarify the concept

IAnalyzing the Question

A. Break down the question into its key components

When facing a “to what extent” question, it is crucial to first understand what the question is asking. Breaking down the question into its key components will not only help you analyze the question effectively but also guide you in developing a well-structured and focused response.

B. Identify the scope and focus of the question

In addition, identify the specific factors, events, or arguments that you need to address in your response. This will enable you to allocate sufficient attention and evidence to each aspect, enhancing the overall quality and coherence of your answer.

C. Discuss common pitfalls to avoid when analyzing such questions

One common pitfall is providing an overly one-sided or biased analysis. It is crucial to consider different perspectives and arguments, even if you have a strong position or opinion. Acknowledging and evaluating opposing viewpoints demonstrates a thoughtful and nuanced approach.

Finally, be cautious of making unsupported claims or assertions. Back up your arguments with reliable evidence and sources. Thoroughly research the topic to gather the necessary evidence, ensuring that your analysis is grounded in sound facts and research.

By breaking down the question, identifying its scope and focus, and avoiding common pitfalls, you will be better equipped to analyze “to what extent” questions effectively and provide a well-structured and evidence-based response.

RecommendedResearching and Gathering Evidence

Importance of conducting thorough research, tips for finding reliable sources and evidence.

1. Utilize academic databases and scholarly journals: These platforms provide access to peer-reviewed articles and studies, which are considered to be credible sources of information.

2. Consult books and reputable publications: Books and publications written by experts in the field are often considered reliable sources as they undergo rigorous fact-checking and review processes.

Considering Different Perspectives and Arguments

When answering “to what extent” questions, it is crucial to consider different perspectives and arguments related to the topic. This allows the writer to present a balanced and nuanced response. Exploring different viewpoints not only strengthens the overall argument but also showcases a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

By considering different perspectives, the writer can anticipate potential counterarguments and address them effectively within their response. This not only demonstrates critical thinking skills but also adds depth and credibility to the argument presented.

Developing a Thesis Statement

In order to effectively answer “to what extent” questions, it is crucial to develop a strong and concise thesis statement. The thesis statement serves as the main argument or claim of your essay and guides the reader in understanding the extent to which you agree or disagree with the given statement.

Role of a thesis statement

A thesis statement provides a clear and focused direction for your essay. It outlines the specific points and arguments you will be addressing in order to support your position. When answering “to what extent” questions, your thesis statement should indicate the degree to which you agree or disagree, allowing your essay to present a nuanced and balanced argument.

Formulating a strong and concise thesis statement

Importance of clear and focused arguments.

By developing a well-crafted thesis statement and presenting clear and focused arguments, you can effectively answer “to what extent” questions, providing a comprehensive and thoughtful response to the given topic.

Structuring Your Response

2. Background and Contextual Information Provide relevant background information and context to help readers understand the topic and the significance of the “to what extent” question. This section should also highlight any key terms or concepts that will be discussed in the essay.

3. Argument and Evidence Present your main arguments and supporting evidence in separate paragraphs. Each argument should address a specific aspect of the “to what extent” question and be supported by reliable sources and examples. Make sure to analyze and interpret the evidence to demonstrate its relevance to your thesis statement.

C. Tips for Effective Transitions To ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs and sections, use transitional words and phrases such as “furthermore,” “in addition,” “on the contrary,” etc. These help connect your ideas and guide your readers through your essay. Additionally, use topic sentences at the beginning of each paragraph to clearly introduce the main point or argument of that specific section.

Another strategy is to pose a thought-provoking question that relates directly to the extent of the topic. This can create a sense of intrigue and make the reader eager to explore the various perspectives and arguments put forth in the essay.

In conclusion, the introduction plays a crucial role in answering “to what extent” questions. By employing attention-grabbing strategies, including a clear thesis statement, and ensuring a seamless transition into the body of the essay, you can effectively engage the reader and set the stage for a well-argued and comprehensive response.

### A. The Significance of Providing Evidence When answering “to what extent” questions, it is crucial to support your arguments with evidence. This not only demonstrates your knowledge on the topic but also strengthens the credibility of your response. Without sufficient evidence, your arguments may appear weak and unsubstantiated.

### B. Different Types of Evidence and How to Use Them Effectively There are various types of evidence that can be used to support your arguments. These include statistics, expert opinions, case studies, historical examples, and empirical data, among others. Each type of evidence serves a different purpose and can be used strategically to strengthen different aspects of your argument.

### C. Examples of How to Integrate Evidence into the Essay Integrating evidence into your essay requires careful thought and consideration. One effective way to incorporate evidence is by using it to support your topic sentences. Each paragraph should start with a clear topic sentence that presents the main idea or argument of that particular section. Then, follow up with evidence that supports and strengthens that argument.

A. Discuss the importance of addressing counterarguments in your essay

Addressing counterarguments demonstrates a thorough understanding of the topic and adds credibility to your argument. It shows that you have considered various perspectives and have thought critically about the issue at hand. By acknowledging and responding to counterarguments, you are strengthening your own argument and demonstrating that you have explored all sides of the question.

Incorporating counterarguments into your essay not only strengthens your argument but also demonstrates intellectual honesty and critical thinking skills. It shows that you have carefully considered the complexity of the topic and have taken into account opposing viewpoints.

X. Exploring the Limitations

A. explain the relevance of acknowledging limitations in your response, b. discuss how to identify and address limitations in an effective manner, c. provide examples of how to address limitations in an effective manner.

To effectively address limitations, consider incorporating phrases such as “While it is true that…” or “One potential limitation of this argument is…”. These phrases signal to the reader that you are aware of the limitations and are actively engaging with them.

Summarizing and Evaluating the Evidence

11.1 summarizing the evidence presented.

Summarizing the evidence you have presented in your essay is essential to ensure clarity and coherence in your response. By summarizing the evidence, you can demonstrate that you have considered multiple perspectives and arguments. It allows you to provide a concise and organized overview of the evidence discussed throughout your essay.

11.2 Evaluating the Overall Strength of Arguments

By evaluating the overall strength of your arguments, you can identify any weaknesses or gaps in your reasoning and take steps to address them.

Writing the Conclusion

A. highlight the purpose of the conclusion, b. offer tips for writing a strong and impactful conclusion.

To write a strong and impactful conclusion for an essay answering “to what extent” questions, consider the following tips:

2. Reemphasize your thesis statement: Remind your reader of your thesis statement and its relevance to the question. Clearly state the extent to which you believe your thesis statement holds true.

C. Discuss the importance of restating the thesis and summarizing key points

Finalizing your essay, a. proofreading and editing.

After completing the writing process, it is crucial to allocate sufficient time for proofreading and editing your essay. This ensures that your response to “to what extent” questions is clear, coherent, and error-free. Proofreading involves carefully reading your essay to identify and correct any grammar, punctuation, or spelling mistakes.

B. Ensuring Clarity, Coherence, and Proper Grammar and Spelling

C. seeking feedback and making necessary revisions.

Seeking feedback from others can provide valuable insights and help you identify areas for improvement. Ask someone you trust, such as a friend or teacher, to read your essay and provide constructive criticism. Consider their feedback objectively and make necessary revisions to strengthen your arguments or clarify your points.

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Focus on directive essay words: “to what extent…”

(Last updated: 13 May 2021)

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In a nutshell, an essay question that asks, “to what extent…” is generally prompting you to explain how much you agree with the idea being posed. It is not – as is sometimes thought by students – asking whether you outright agree or disagree with the idea.

With these types of essay questions, if you choose to not agree with the idea being posed, you might end up with a very short essay, or worse, with a failing grade.

So, if the answer to a “to what extent…” essay question is nearly always “yes, I agree”, you might wonder what the point of the essay is.

The key here is in understanding the purpose of these types of essay questions. They are inviting you to state how much you agree with something, using either side of the argument to posit your stance. These types of essay questions are particularly great because they allow you to show a variety of skills in a relatively short amount of space.

What the instructor is looking for in a “to what extent…” essay is that you have created a really logical and coherent argument (while agreeing with the statement, at least in some capacity) and that you have highlighted the importance of other issues that generally impact the topic of the essay. Through doing this you are not only able to display your depth of knowledge, but also your independent judgement. This shows that you are able to think for yourself and provide a certain level of critical thought.

In this post, we are first going to discuss the two parts that you should include in all “to what extent…” essays, followed by a breakdown of how we think the essay should be structured. By knowing these points, you should be well on your way to the creation of a very successful paper.

What should I always include?

We highlighted in the introduction that it is important to demonstrate an in-depth knowledge, but you might question how this can be fully achieved. A good “to what extent…” essay is supported by detailed source evidence; therefore, it cannot be only about what you think, but more about what you know. If you struggle with searching for sources , you might consider contacting your school librarian, or seek help from a qualified writer who can guide you to appropriate literature on the subject.

Including resources is imperative, but not the only aspect that contributes to the demonstration of knowledge. This information also needs to be presented in a logical and coherent way. This can be achieved by writing a paragraph for each point you are making.

When writing a paragraph, you would generally begin with a good topic sentence – a phrase that sums up what the paragraph is going to be about (the idea). In discussing this idea, you need to include examples (e.g. data, statistics, scholarly literature, etc.). Make sure that you are providing some level of critical thinking. You cannot just end with an example or quote; you must be really focused on justifying why the example you included is relevant and valuable. Once you have done this, end the paragraph with a really strong transition or concluding sentence. To make your essay stand out above the ones written by your peers, include subject-specific vocabulary that is particularly relevant to your field of study.

Once you have demonstrated your depth of knowledge through a selection of paragraphs, you also need to make sure that you are creating links to wider issues, topics, or arguments. This might seem counter intuitive. You might feel like you are straying from the original argument, but acknowledging wider ideas within your essay writing is rather essential. It increases the significance of your original argument and continues to demonstrate your extensive knowledge of the subject area.

How should I structure a “to what extent…” essay?

By university level, you should be familiar with incorporating an introduction, body and conclusion into all your essay writing . But the structure of a “to what extent…” is much more detailed.

Remember that your introduction must briefly answer the question and agree (to some extent) with the original statement. Next, the first few paragraphs of your essay should demonstrate that your first statement/answer to the question is true. Here, you are providing justification, through the use of evidence, that you know what you are talking about. You would provide reasons to why the initial statement is true, but perhaps more importantly, where the initial statement is weak or not true.

Providing weaknesses to an argument does not make your essay weak by comparison. It is important to remember that the original prompt asks, “to what extent…”. This means that the instructor knows that the statement is not entirely true, and demonstrating that you understand this too is essential.

This brings us to the second half of the essay. In this half of the essay you are elaborating on all the ways where you see the first statement or assumption being ‘not true.” Here, it is your job to show the flaws in the logic. This is again done through the use of examples, data, statistics, or scholarly literature. It is not just your own opinion. In this section, it is also your responsibility to offer alternatives to the original statement. You might achieve this by explaining how the original statement could be improved, or by expanding the topic area that it addresses.

The final component to a “to what extent…” essay is a strong and logical conclusion. You are not presenting any new information in the conclusion, but rather you are recapping the arguments you have made throughout the essay. Remember also that a “to what extent…” essay requires a specific final decision. You generally have three options when ending your paper, which all relate to how much you agree with the original argument. You can say that you agree “to a certain extent”, “to a great extent”, or “to a very small extent”.

Let us recap for you the points of a successful “to what extent…” essay. First, make sure you plan before you begin; make an outline and provide supporting evidence for any claim you make. Ensure that you have made links to wider issues or arguments, while demonstrating any flaws in the logic that you have identified. Close with a summary of your key points and a clear answer to the original prompt. Finally, proofread your essay and ensure that it includes subject specific vocabulary that relates to your subject area. Once you have achieved this, you are ready to submit.

Focus on directive essay words: “summarise”

Focus on directive essay words: “elaborate”

Focus on directive essay words: “compare and contrast”

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"To What Extent" Essay Writing

Updated 04 Jun 2024

Table of contents

‘To What Extent’ Essay Examples

Words to use in an essay, start by choosing your stance, to what extent essay structure.

When it comes to ‘Agree or Disagree’ write-ups, a lot of students face difficulties since they lack clear ideas and effective structures in mind. This specific 'to what extent essay' type of writing was popularized by the International English Language Testing System, commonly known as IELTS – the most famous test people take to prove their English language expertise. Here, we will guide you on the best structure, how to generate ideas and support your evidence and how to  order essay from the best writers on the market. But before that, check out some questions you should expect in writing part of IELTS.

To give you an image of what to expect in your IELTS exam, take a look at these writing prompts:

• Age group is key determinant of purchasing decisions. Do you concede or dissent? To what degree?
• Public libraries have been a waste of resources since computer technology evolved. Discuss.
• Young people make the best leaders of today’s tech-driven organizations. How much do you concur or disapprove?

Save your time! We can take care of your essay

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Since the purpose here is to explain the depth of your agreement (or a disagreement) with a certain concept or an idea being discussed, the essay words that you use play a paramount role. Of course, saying "I agree with John" or "I disagree with Lucy" might sound like a great way to explain your thoughts, yet it is not the point or a purpose here. The trick is to use directive words. What these mean is that you should direct your readers to the point that you want to make as you turn to statistics, explanations, or direct quotes. The words to use in an essay should create an inspiring topic sentence that explains where you are coming from with your take on things. For example, saying “based on X research that shows how Y brings damage because of Z aspect, I tend to disagree with the general perception of things because Z aspect cannot be addressed by the current political system and lack of…”. Saying that you disagree with the point made by the author would not be sufficient. It is your wording and research that matter!

The typical essay phrases that you use should point out that you agree "to a certain extent" because "the study of both opinions helps to conclude that". Likewise, saying that you agree "to a great extent" will require an explanation as to why it is so. If you provide evidence or some examples, it will help. Saying that you agree "to a very small extent" can be among those useful essay phrases that will show your attitude, yet remember to provide sources that support your opinion or something that has helped you come to a certain conclusion. Link your thoughts to solid arguments and don’t forget to use academic style language!

Read also: “ Pay for essay writing and benefit from expert help.”

After reading to what extent essay questions, you should decide on a clear point of view. Do you completely side with the statement? Or are you totally against the statement? Perhaps you can accept certain sides of question discussed, while rejecting the others. From there, you can start structuring your paper.

Suppose you completely invalidate perspective of the query. In introduction, discuss reasons for disregarding it, starting with strongest and end with weakest. Mention your thesis preferably in the second statement of introduction. Don’t forget to insist why opposite idea is wrong towards the end of introduction and restate your standpoint.

Then, elaborate your points in body section, using two paragraphs. If you partly bear with the question statement or protest, state exact points you approve of and those that you completely deny. Do so with relevant examples and evidence.

In summary section of an essay to what extent, be sure to stipulate degree of disagreement or agreement using distinctive adverbs as opposed to what you used in introduction. Conclude with supportive arguments and restate your stance. One paragraph is enough to conclude your paper.

See how we have broken down the sections into sentences for you to understand.

• The introduction

Sentence 1: In introduction section, you are expected to paraphrase the question. Simply restate it with a different meaning. This is where you must demonstrate your ability to use synonyms. Sentence 2: This is the best place to introduce your thesis statement. In other words, put your opinion in a single line. Sentence 3: This is the outline sentence which lines up what you are going to discuss in the body.

You need supportive paragraphs to propose or oppose an idea. In this case, we are using two paragraphs.

In paragraph 1: include a topic, and explanation, and some relevant to what extent essay examples.

The topic sentence tells reader what to expect in the entire paragraph. It is a like an abstract of your initial idea. From there, think about expanding the point further (the explanation). As you write, assume that the reader is in complete oblivion of subject matter. So you should explicitly explain your arguments.

In the last sentence of first body paragraph, come up with a good example to support your idea. Use recent stories and studies. But when you don’t find one, you can always make up something since the reader may not have time to verify if it is true or false.

In paragraph 2: repeat the same format to explain your second point, i.e. a topic sentence, an explanation, and a relevant example.

As previously stated, conclusion should give a summary of the main points and your final verdict. Never introduce new ideas in this section. Simply restate your thesis statement and summarize the supportive evidence.

Not all students understand to what extent meaning essay. Like any assignment, it is important to understand the question before providing an effective answer. By the way, you can ask Edubirdie for any essay writing help . Thinking about how to answer to what extent essay questions, keep in mind that any question that poses ‘extent’ requires concrete evidence and analysis. Such an essay requires you to discuss how one aspect is more valid than other is.

So, you must critically analyze all aspects and give a verdict with the degree of how true or false the statement in question is. Use as many sources of information as possible to increase the credibility of your arguments.

If it hasn’t occurred to you yet, this assignment is one of the easiest exams. We recommend you to avoid consenting to or declining partly so you can avoid mixing up ideas and ending up with a confusing thesis. But when you simply stand for an idea or condemn it, you will get an easier time since you only need two reasons to support your stance.

Keep in mind that the examiner focuses on your ability to express, plan, and support your perspective. You will not be judged on the opinion you give. Just make sure the opinion is logical and coherent. A coherent opinion means that the arguments are supported, and they stick together throughout your to what extent essay.

And that is what it takes to ace in ‘To What Extent’ essay. The structure described above has been approved by IELTS for cohesive and clear papers. If you practice this method, you will be in a position to organize your paper even when you have as little as 40 minutes.

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How to Answer “To What Extent” Questions? Structure, Tips, and Examples

Table of Content

Introduction

Body paragraphs, break it down, use examples and data, consider counterarguments, be balanced and fair, quantify your argument, highlight degrees of impact.

Have you ever stared at an essay question with those tricky words "to what extent" and felt a wave of confusion wash over you? Well, we totally get you! These questions can make anybody puzzled. However, you don't have to worry anymore, for we have come up with an ultimate guide to resolving all your queries related to these challenges and to what extent essay questions are.

Essay questions stating "to what extent" are created by academic institutions to test your ability to analyze, evaluate, and argue a point with finesse. Therefore, it is crucial to learn the correct way to form to what extent essay structure. So, let's dive into the fascinating world of these questions.

Why "To What Extent" Essay Questions Confuse Students?

• It is expected that "to what extent" essay questions will be confusing because they often require an in-depth understanding and careful analysis of that particular topic. Unlike simpler questions that ask for straightforward answers, to what extent questions demand students to review several aspects, such as changes in perspectives, arguments, and evidence, before concluding?
• Students get perplexed about the specific parameters of the question and what it is asking them to evaluate.
• Instead of providing a single answer, sometimes they have to assess different viewpoints or arguments related to the topic, which makes it challenging.
• Students can also find it challenging to find appropriate evidence to support their arguments when answering the "to what extent" essay.
• Students often fail to balance their responses and miscalculate the validity and limitations of different perspectives.

Overall, the "to what extent" question requires you to think critically. You must analyze complex issues and effectively communicate your ideas in the essays. You may find it challenging, so you should better seek academic writing services from our experts. You can also read this blog. It will resolve all your problems related to answering to what extent essay questions perfectly. The section below will help you learn the correct way to create to what extent essay structure.

Correct Way to Structure "To What Extent" Essay

Writing a perfect answer to such essay questions is a tricky business. Therefore, it is always best to learn how to answer a to what extent question correctly. Structuring a "to what extent" essay follows a clear pattern that can help you tackle the question effectively. Here's a simplified guide for you:

• Start your essay by clearly stating the "to what extent" question.
• Provide background information to help your readers understand the context and the issue.
• Present a thorough thesis statement which outlines your overall argument on the topic.
• Your body paragraph should start with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea or argument of the topic.
• You must support your argument with evidence, examples, or data and explain how each piece of evidence supports your point.
• Always consider different viewpoints or perspectives related to the topic. It will help you better clarify your answers to "to what extent "questions.
• Connect your ideas and create a smooth flow between paragraphs to make it more relevant.
• Restate the "to what extent" question and summarize your main argument.
• Review the evidence you have presented in the body paragraphs.
• Offer your final thoughts or implications of your argument to conclude the essay.
• You should always avoid introducing any new information in the conclusion section.

These are the few simple steps to follow to learn how to answer to what extent questions. By following this structure, you can effectively address the question and demonstrate your critical thinking skills. If you have difficulty, feel free to contact our essay help experts. Now, let's learn some ways to answer such questions. The section below will help you know the best tips for answering the "to what extent" essay question.

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Tips to Answer "To What Extent" Essay Question

Whenever a student comes across the question, "To what extent do you agree?" they start panicking because answering such a question is not easy. This is why it is always better to take assignment writing service from experts. Or, you can try your hands on the following tips and tricks for writing "to what extent" essay answers.

The first thing you should do is break down the essay question. Try dividing it into smaller sections. This will help you get better clarity of what the question is asking. Then, you will be able to consider all the different factors.

It is crucial to add to what extent essay examples are used, as they will help you back up your points. You can use your own experiences, history, or whatever you have learned, for instance. Examples can make your argument stronger.

Think about the points of diagnosis. While writing such answers, there is always a possibility of counterquestions or counterarguments. Therefore, always be ready for them. Addressing them shows you've thought carefully about the issue.

While you're arguing your opinion, it's essential to consider different points of view. It will show that you have considered and understood the complexity of the issue, creating a balance between all the viewpoints.

Try to quantify your stance instead of just saying you agree or disagree. Use terms like "completely," "partially," "mostly," or "to a limited extent" to add precision to your argument. These are the best examples or phrases for questions like "To what extent do you agree?"

It is equally necessary to highlight the degree of impact in the answer. Therefore, always check how much influence your statement has and in what contexts, so that your answer is clear and supports your argument.

These were some interesting tips that can help you write extended essay on to what extent type questions. However, in case you still have problems, doubts, or queries, it is always best to seek help from our experts. They can provide you with several to what extent essay examples or samples for better understanding. For a quick example of such blogs, check out the next section.

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Here's an Easy "To What Extent" Essay Example

If you are still having trouble writing an answer for "to what extent" essays, go through the example given below. It will help you get a better idea of how to divide your structure.

Though, we have provided with all the information that we have related to “To what extent” essays. However, if you still have more queries or doubts, it is best to seek expert's assistance. Therefore, check out the next section to know how can we help you with such essay questions.

Cannot Prepare “To What Extent” Essay? Ask Our Experts

We hope that our fantastic blog writers have helped you learn how to answer "to what extent" essay questions. All the tips we have provided can help you in an unexplainable way if you try using them while writing such essays. However, if you have any doubts or confusion, you can reach out to us as we are available 24*7 at your service.

However, if you still haven't learned to work on "to what extent" questions, we suggest you seek help from our experts. They have years of experience and expertise and can provide you with amazing essay help instantly. All you have to do is place an order on our website, and our writers will be at your service within minutes. So what are you waiting for? Seek MBA essay help from our experts today!

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Quick Guide to Writing a Successful To What Extent Essay

So, your teacher gave a simple assignment - to write a ‘to what extent’ essay. You are heartened by the nature of the task and assume that you’ll finish it in less than an hour. After all, just admitting that you agree or disagree with the statement and to what degree is all you asked to do.

You submit the paper and feel shocked when you see the score. How come you got an F for the minimalistic essay? How come the teacher didn’t get the idea of your inventive approach towards doing your homework or writing the exam?

Friend, we feel for you, but this essay type is really tricky. It involves more work than just saying, ‘I completely agree’ or ‘The author is right on the one hand, but on the other hand, I do not take this statement.’

So, in this article, we’ll detail the ‘to what extent’ essay and will show you how to write it in the right way.

What’s the Purpose of a ‘To What Extent’ Essay?

Before you learn how to answer to what extent question, let’s first take a look at the anatomy of this essay type.

This essay is usually inquiring about the importance or impact of one factor in relation to a wider concept or topic. It also makes an inquiry about the level of your consent and discontent on a specific topic.

For example, ‘To what extent do you agree that robots will replace manpower someday?’. Or ‘In your opinion, to what extent did Abraham Lincoln contributed to the death of slavery?’.

In other words, the aim of the ‘to what extent’ essay is to encourage the student to make a claim about the given topic and assess other conditions that affected the given phenomenon.

Things to Look For in Your Compelling ‘to What Extent’ Essay

The greatest challenge of the ‘to what extent’ essay is that you have to provide a perfect blend between the solid facts and your own in-depth evaluation. In other words, always think of the:

• facts and supportive materials on a narrow topic;
• facts and supportive materials on a broader topic;
• your own evaluation of the events, facts, etc.

Let’s consider the prompt about Abraham Lincoln as an example. At first, you should find and provide facts about the accomplishments of this persona (these would be pieces of information on the narrow topic). Then, mind searching for the materials about actions taken in the USA towards fighting slavery (this would be data to support the broader topic). And, finally, you’ve got to weigh how Lincoln’s legacy correlates with the general solution of the slavery problem.

Thus, you’ve got to apply a wide range of skills to write a winning ‘to what extent’ essay. You should show great research and analytical skills. In case you struggle with finding reputable and trusted sources online, you can always go to the school or college library or ask for assistance from a professional writer.

The Structure of the ‘to What Extent’ Essay

The surest way to write a great essay is to follow the commonly accepted structure. You’ve probably mastered the art of using the introduction, body, and conclusion by the time you are given this type of assignment. But the standard five-paragraph essay construction requires more detailed explanations so you could write a well-reasoned ‘to what extent’ essay.

Introduction

It’s not a surprise that all essays start with the introduction. This part of writing actualizes the subject matter and gives a hint on what’s the author’s point of view towards this or that question.

After you set the topic, you should express your attitude towards the idea provided in the statement. You can say that you completely agree or disagree. You can say that there are only several rational aspects that resonate with you, while some things do not awaken any positive response in your mind.

The key point of the introduction is to make a spoiler of what you are going to talk about in your essay, so do not keep it too long. 3-5 sentences are enough to briefly set the mood of your work and prepare the reader for more profound thoughts.

This is the most important part of the essay because it should contain your arguments and supportive facts in relation to your own ideas. In this structural element, you detail your point of view and give evidence of why you think that way.

The structure of the body will vary depending on what ideas you would like to deliver. But let’s assume that you partially agree with the suggested prompt and have some arguments against the initial thesis.

In this case, devote the first paragraph to explain why you agree with the statement. Break your ideas into logical blocks by combining your own ideas and facts from history, theory, or life. 

Use the next paragraph to show disagreement with the idea expressed in the prompt. Imagine that the reader is a complete rookie in the subject matter you are writing about and do your best to provide relevant and strong arguments to show why the thesis is not completely right.

In the final paragraph of the body suggest how the initial statement could be improved and what idea is more appropriate for you.

In the last paragraph, summarize the arguments and drive your own attitude to the problem, personality, or phenomenon.

The biggest mistake students make in this section is introducing completely new viewpoints that haven’t been shared in the essay. Remember once and for all. A conclusion is a part of the essay where you grab all your ideas together and make a generalized statement towards the essay prompt.

The Final Thought

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How to Answer “to what Extent” Question in Research & Examples

Answering 'to what Extent” Question

In the real world, deciding which factor is more important than another may seem impossible. However, when answering a question such as “what is ‘to what extent question, they are ultimately asking you to decide a single factor’s importance in comparison to another.

It is a good idea to be upfront about your approach and how you plan to answer it. Read on.  

Also Read: 21 Hardest and 21 Easiest Courses in Colleges to Take in 2022

How to Answer the ‘to what Extent” Question

First, you must determine what “extent” you want to measure. If it’s the extent of your knowledge about something, then you need to know how much you know about it.

If it’s the extent of your experience with something, then you need to know how much time and energy you’ve invested in it .

Second, you must determine what kind of “to what extent” question you’re asking.

If the question is about what extent this has on me (i.e., how does it affect my life), then use an absolute term such as “a lot,” or “much.” 

If the question is about how much this leads me toward some goal (i.e., how do I benefit from this), then use a comparative term such as “more,” or “less.”

To answer a ‘to what extent question, you need to explain what the situation is like. If you can’t do this in your first response, you should think about how to answer the question again before responding with a second response.

If you are unsure how to answer the question, you haven’t thought about how to answer it enough. In this case, try researching the topic and coming up with some ideas for responses that would be relevant to the test context.

Finally, once you’ve determined what kind of question it is and how much each answer will help give it context, answer based on that context!

Also Read: Does Turnitin Check Other Students’ Papers to Check Similarity

Tips to Note when Approaching the ”to what Extent” Question

The “to what extent” question is a great place to start because it allows you to discuss the relationship between the two things.

When approaching these question , ensure you understand how each item functions within your overall goal. These are just some general tips:

1. Make Sure you have a good Understanding of what the Question is Asking

The first step in answering this type of question is understanding what you are being asked. The answer will depend on the context and the nature of your response. 

For example, if you are asked ”to what extent the student understands the concept of Pythagoras,” then it is not enough for you to say that he knows about Pythagoras. 

You will need to elaborate on how much he understands this concept. If you have difficulty explaining how much your student understands about Pythagoras, then he may not understand it well enough for your purposes.

Once you have established what question is being asked, think about how best to answer it based on your knowledge of that topic or area of study. 

In most cases, however, there is no right or wrong way to answer such questions; rather, it depends upon whether or not your answer will help clarify the main point made by your instructor or professor.

2. Ask Someone else to Help Interpret the Question if you Need Help Understanding it

To be able to answer this type of question, you need to be clear in your mind about the meaning of the word ‘to what extent. This means that you need to be able to define clearly what you mean by it. You also need to be able to explain how much is enough and too much.

The best way of doing this is by asking someone else who knows better than yourself about these things. If you have a friend or colleague who can help, this can be done by asking them for their advice on how to answer the question.

They may not always agree with your interpretation of what they say, but they will likely give examples that will help show why they think it’s right or wrong.

3 . Be specific

When describing how one item relates to another, be as specific as possible. Avoid using vague statements such as “it’s important” or “it’s essential.” Instead, give examples from your own experience and knowledge.

Use concrete examples to explain your answers. For example, instead of saying, “I’m good at planning,” say, “I helped my boss plan his trip last year.”

If possible, include documents or visual aids showing how you’ve demonstrated your skills.

4. Don’t be Boring

Don’t just say yes or no; make sure your answer is interesting enough to catch the interviewer’s attention. Saying “yes” has its place in an interview.

However, don’t be afraid to add some color with some personal anecdotes about how you’ve demonstrated those skills in the past that may not directly relate to what they’re looking for.

5. Don’t rush Through an Answer

Take your time! Read through each choice carefully before choosing the most relevant and appropriate for your answer. This will save time and improve your chances of answering correctly (if you make errors from rushing through, there may be little time left on the paper). 

Also Read: Dissertation Length: Optimal Length in Words and Pages

Examples of ‘to what extent” Questions

1. To what extent have you been able to learn Chinese?

2. To what extent do you feel that your English skills have improved?

3. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement: “I don’t enjoy learning languages.”

4. To what extent do Chinese people learn from the Japanese during the war?

5. To what extent is it true that most people do not know how to swim?

6. To what extent should a student be able to speak a foreign language?

7. To what extent should the government try to limit immigration?

9. How much does the price of gasoline affect the average American family’s disposable income?

10. What is your name? -To what extent do you agree/disagree with the statement “I am a good person”?

11. How many times have you been to the cinema? -To what extent do you agree/disagree with the statement “I enjoy going to the cinema”?

12. Which of these books do you like most? -To what extent do you agree/disagree with the statement “I like reading books”?

With over 10 years in academia and academic assistance, Alicia Smart is the epitome of excellence in the writing industry. She is our chief editor and in charge of the writing department at Grade Bees.

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Extended Essay: Step 5. Draft a Research Question

• Extended Essay- The Basics
• Step 1. Choose a Subject
• Step 2. Educate yourself!
• Using Brainstorming and Mind Maps
• Identify Keywords
• Do Background Reading
• Define Your Topic
• Conduct Research in a Specific Discipline
• Step 5. Draft a Research Question
• Step 6. Create a Timeline
• Find Articles
• Find Primary Sources
• Get Help from Experts
• Search Engines, Repositories, & Directories
• Databases and Websites by Subject Area
• Create an Annotated Bibliography
• Advice (and Warnings) from the IB
• Chicago Citation Syle
• MLA Works Cited & In-Text Citations
• Step 9. Set Deadlines for Yourself
• Step 10. Plan a structure for your essay
• Evaluate & Select: the CRAAP Test
• Conducting Secondary Research
• Conducting Primary Research
• Formal vs. Informal Writing
• Presentation Requirements
• Evaluating Your Work

RQ Resources

On this page you can find help with developing your preliminary research question.  See: 

Steps to Developing a Research Question

Sample research questions.

Practice Exercise:  Formulating Well-Focused Research Questions

IB Command Terms and Glossaries

• Research Question Formats for History Extended Essays

You've chosen a subject and topic that interests you, and carried out some preliminary reading.  What are the next steps ?

Evaluate the question.   Once you have posed possible research questions you should evaluate them.  This evaluation should be based on whether the question is clear , focused , and arguable .

• Clear  - Will the reader understand the nature of my research?  Will it direct the research being undertaken?
• Focused - Will the research question be specific enough to allow for exploration within the scope of the task (that is, the number of words and time available)?
• Arguable - Does the research question allow for analysis, evaluation and the development of a reasoned argument?

Consider research outcomes.   Once you have decided on a provisional research question you should start thinking about the direction your research might take.  You could do this by:

• suggesting possible outcomes of your research
• outlining the kind of argument you might make and how your research might support this
• considering options if the research available is not sufficient to support a sustained argument

The table below gives some examples showing the difference between unclear and unfocused research questions and those that are appropriately clear and focused, lending themselves to in-depth research.  

Practice exercise: Formulating well-focused research questions

Twelve-step Plan for Researching the Extended Essay - Step 5

5.  Formulate a preliminary research question.  Try to incorporate an IB command term in the research question if possible.

IB Command Terms & Glossaries

Command terms are the key terms and phrases used in examination questions for IB classes.  The lists below give the terms, and definitions, for specific IB subjects.

  These lists are glossaries of terms used in film and dance.

Students writing History Extended Essays can use these formats to help write research questions on their topics.

• << Previous: Conduct Research in a Specific Discipline
• Next: Step 6. Create a Timeline >>
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• URL: https://libguides.westsoundacademy.org/ee

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• Focus and Precision: How to Write Essays that Answer the Question

About the Author Stephanie Allen read Classics and English at St Hugh’s College, Oxford, and is currently researching a PhD in Early Modern Academic Drama at the University of Fribourg.

We’ve all been there. You’ve handed in an essay and you think it’s pretty great: it shows off all your best ideas, and contains points you’re sure no one else will have thought of.

You’re not totally convinced that what you’ve written is relevant to the title you were given – but it’s inventive, original and good. In fact, it might be better than anything that would have responded to the question. But your essay isn’t met with the lavish praise you expected. When it’s tossed back onto your desk, there are huge chunks scored through with red pen, crawling with annotations like little red fire ants: ‘IRRELEVANT’; ‘A bit of a tangent!’; ‘???’; and, right next to your best, most impressive killer point: ‘Right… so?’. The grade your teacher has scrawled at the end is nowhere near what your essay deserves. In fact, it’s pretty average. And the comment at the bottom reads something like, ‘Some good ideas, but you didn’t answer the question!’.

If this has ever happened to you (and it has happened to me, a lot), you’ll know how deeply frustrating it is – and how unfair it can seem. This might just be me, but the exhausting process of researching, having ideas, planning, writing and re-reading makes me steadily more attached to the ideas I have, and the things I’ve managed to put on the page. Each time I scroll back through what I’ve written, or planned, so far, I become steadily more convinced of its brilliance. What started off as a scribbled note in the margin, something extra to think about or to pop in if it could be made to fit the argument, sometimes comes to be backbone of a whole essay – so, when a tutor tells me my inspired paragraph about Ted Hughes’s interpretation of mythology isn’t relevant to my essay on Keats, I fail to see why. Or even if I can see why, the thought of taking it out is wrenching. Who cares if it’s a bit off-topic? It should make my essay stand out, if anything! And an examiner would probably be happy not to read yet another answer that makes exactly the same points. If you recognise yourself in the above, there are two crucial things to realise. The first is that something has to change: because doing well in high school exam or coursework essays is almost totally dependent on being able to pin down and organise lots of ideas so that an examiner can see that they convincingly answer a question. And it’s a real shame to work hard on something, have good ideas, and not get the marks you deserve. Writing a top essay is a very particular and actually quite simple challenge. It’s not actually that important how original you are, how compelling your writing is, how many ideas you get down, or how beautifully you can express yourself (though of course, all these things do have their rightful place). What you’re doing, essentially, is using a limited amount of time and knowledge to really answer a question. It sounds obvious, but a good essay should have the title or question as its focus the whole way through . It should answer it ten times over – in every single paragraph, with every fact or figure. Treat your reader (whether it’s your class teacher or an external examiner) like a child who can’t do any interpretive work of their own; imagine yourself leading them through your essay by the hand, pointing out that you’ve answered the question here , and here , and here. Now, this is all very well, I imagine you objecting, and much easier said than done. But never fear! Structuring an essay that knocks a question on the head is something you can learn to do in a couple of easy steps. In the next few hundred words, I’m going to share with you what I’ve learned through endless, mindless crossings-out, rewordings, rewritings and rethinkings.

Top tips and golden rules

I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been told to ‘write the question at the top of every new page’- but for some reason, that trick simply doesn’t work for me. If it doesn’t work for you either, use this three-part process to allow the question to structure your essay:

1)     Work out exactly what you’re being asked

It sounds really obvious, but lots of students have trouble answering questions because they don’t take time to figure out exactly what they’re expected to do – instead, they skim-read and then write the essay they want to write. Sussing out a question is a two-part process, and the first part is easy. It means looking at the directions the question provides as to what sort of essay you’re going to write. I call these ‘command phrases’ and will go into more detail about what they mean below. The second part involves identifying key words and phrases.

2)     Be as explicit as possible

Use forceful, persuasive language to show how the points you’ve made do answer the question. My main focus so far has been on tangential or irrelevant material – but many students lose marks even though they make great points, because they don’t quite impress how relevant those points are. Again, I’ll talk about how you can do this below.

3)     Be brutally honest with yourself about whether a point is relevant before you write it.

It doesn’t matter how impressive, original or interesting it is. It doesn’t matter if you’re panicking, and you can’t think of any points that do answer the question. If a point isn’t relevant, don’t bother with it. It’s a waste of time, and might actually work against you- if you put tangential material in an essay, your reader will struggle to follow the thread of your argument, and lose focus on your really good points.

Put it into action: Step One

Let’s imagine you’re writing an English essay about the role and importance of the three witches in Macbeth . You’re thinking about the different ways in which Shakespeare imagines and presents the witches, how they influence the action of the tragedy, and perhaps the extent to which we’re supposed to believe in them (stay with me – you don’t have to know a single thing about Shakespeare or Macbeth to understand this bit!). Now, you’ll probably have a few good ideas on this topic – and whatever essay you write, you’ll most likely use much of the same material. However, the detail of the phrasing of the question will significantly affect the way you write your essay. You would draw on similar material to address the following questions: Discuss Shakespeare’s representation of the three witches in Macbeth . How does Shakespeare figure the supernatural in Macbeth ?   To what extent are the three witches responsible for Macbeth’s tragic downfall? Evaluate the importance of the three witches in bringing about Macbeth’s ruin. Are we supposed to believe in the three witches in Macbeth ? “Within Macbeth ’s representation of the witches, there is profound ambiguity about the actual significance and power of their malevolent intervention” (Stephen Greenblatt). Discuss.   I’ve organised the examples into three groups, exemplifying the different types of questions you might have to answer in an exam. The first group are pretty open-ended: ‘discuss’- and ‘how’-questions leave you room to set the scope of the essay. You can decide what the focus should be. Beware, though – this doesn’t mean you don’t need a sturdy structure, or a clear argument, both of which should always be present in an essay. The second group are asking you to evaluate, constructing an argument that decides whether, and how far something is true. Good examples of hypotheses (which your essay would set out to prove) for these questions are:

• The witches are the most important cause of tragic action in Macbeth.
• The witches are partially, but not entirely responsible for Macbeth’s downfall, alongside Macbeth’s unbridled ambition, and that of his wife.
• We are not supposed to believe the witches: they are a product of Macbeth’s psyche, and his downfall is his own doing.
• The witches’ role in Macbeth’s downfall is deliberately unclear. Their claim to reality is shaky – finally, their ambiguity is part of an uncertain tragic universe and the great illusion of the theatre. (N.B. It’s fine to conclude that a question can’t be answered in black and white, certain terms – as long as you have a firm structure, and keep referring back to it throughout the essay).

The final question asks you to respond to a quotation. Students tend to find these sorts of questions the most difficult to answer, but once you’ve got the hang of them I think the title does most of the work for you – often implicitly providing you with a structure for your essay. The first step is breaking down the quotation into its constituent parts- the different things it says. I use brackets: ( Within Macbeth ’s representation of the witches, ) ( there is profound ambiguity ) about the ( actual significance ) ( and power ) of ( their malevolent intervention ) Examiners have a nasty habit of picking the most bewildering and terrifying-sounding quotations: but once you break them down, they’re often asking for something very simple. This quotation, for example, is asking exactly the same thing as the other questions. The trick here is making sure you respond to all the different parts. You want to make sure you discuss the following:

• Do you agree that the status of the witches’ ‘malevolent intervention’ is ambiguous?
• What is its significance?
• How powerful is it?

Step Two: Plan

Having worked out exactly what the question is asking, write out a plan (which should be very detailed in a coursework essay, but doesn’t have to be more than a few lines long in an exam context) of the material you’ll use in each paragraph. Make sure your plan contains a sentence at the end of each point about how that point will answer the question. A point from my plan for one of the topics above might look something like this:

To what extent are we supposed to believe in the three witches in Macbeth ?  Hypothesis: The witches’ role in Macbeth’s downfall is deliberately unclear. Their claim to reality is uncertain – finally, they’re part of an uncertain tragic universe and the great illusion of the theatre. Para.1: Context At the time Shakespeare wrote Macbeth , there were many examples of people being burned or drowned as witches There were also people who claimed to be able to exorcise evil demons from people who were ‘possessed’. Catholic Christianity leaves much room for the supernatural to exist This suggests that Shakespeare’s contemporary audience might, more readily than a modern one, have believed that witches were a real phenomenon and did exist.

My final sentence (highlighted in red) shows how the material discussed in the paragraph answers the question. Writing this out at the planning stage, in addition to clarifying your ideas, is a great test of whether a point is relevant: if you struggle to write the sentence, and make the connection to the question and larger argument, you might have gone off-topic.

Step Three: Paragraph beginnings and endings

The final step to making sure you pick up all the possible marks for ‘answering the question’ in an essay is ensuring that you make it explicit how your material does so. This bit relies upon getting the beginnings and endings of paragraphs just right. To reiterate what I said above, treat your reader like a child: tell them what you’re going to say; tell them how it answers the question; say it, and then tell them how you’ve answered the question. This need not feel clumsy, awkward or repetitive. The first sentence of each new paragraph or point should, without giving too much of your conclusion away, establish what you’re going to discuss, and how it answers the question. The opening sentence from the paragraph I planned above might go something like this:

Early modern political and religious contexts suggest that Shakespeare’s contemporary audience might more readily have believed in witches than his modern readers.

The sentence establishes that I’m going to discuss Jacobean religion and witch-burnings, and also what I’m going to use those contexts to show. I’d then slot in all my facts and examples in the middle of the paragraph. The final sentence (or few sentences) should be strong and decisive, making a clear connection to the question you’ve been asked:

  Contemporary suspicion that witches did exist, testified to by witch-hunts and exorcisms, is crucial to our understanding of the witches in Macbeth.  To the early modern consciousness, witches were a distinctly real and dangerous possibility – and the witches in the play would have seemed all-the-more potent and terrifying as a result.

Step Four: Practice makes perfect

The best way to get really good at making sure you always ‘answer the question’ is to write essay plans rather than whole pieces. Set aside a few hours, choose a couple of essay questions from past papers, and for each:

• Write a hypothesis
• Write a rough plan of what each paragraph will contain
• Write out the first and last sentence of each paragraph

You can get your teacher, or a friend, to look through your plans and give you feedback. If you follow this advice, fingers crossed, next time you hand in an essay, it’ll be free from red-inked comments about irrelevance, and instead showered with praise for the precision with which you handled the topic, and how intently you focused on answering the question. It can seem depressing when your perfect question is just a minor tangent from the question you were actually asked, but trust me – high praise and good marks are all found in answering the question in front of you, not the one you would have liked to see. Teachers do choose the questions they set you with some care, after all; chances are the question you were set is the more illuminating and rewarding one as well.

Image credits: banner ; Keats ; Macbeth ; James I ; witches .

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• Academic practice
• General practice
• Task 1 Academic
• Task 1 General
• Task 2 (essay)

To what extent you agree or disagree essay

This lesson will guide you how to write essays in IELTS Writing that ask you to what extent you agree/disagree . Such questions are very common for IELTS Writing task 2 . In such essays your task is to say whether you:

• completely agree with a given statement 
• completely disagree with a given statement 
• partly agree / disagree

and  justify your opinion .

In this lesson you will see IELTS writing task 2 sample question + model answer . Also, you will learn the following points:

• how to decide on your opinion
• how to generate ideas to justify your opinion
• how to give a band 9 answer for agree/disagree question

To what extent you agree/disagree question sample

Let’s look at an example of IELTS writing task 2:

The government's investment in arts, music and theatre is a waste of money. Governments should invest these funds in public services instead.

To what extent do you agree with this statement?

Choose your opinion & generate ideas

Unlike classic agree/disagree questions, to what extent you agree or disagree questions do NOT ask you to clearly determine whether you agree or disagree with the given statement.

In fact, you have 3 major options for your opinion :

   AA : You completely agree (provide 2 ideas that strengthen the statement)    DD : You completely disagree (provide 2 ideas that weaken the statement)    AD : You agree or disagree partly (provide 1 idea that strengthens the statement and 1 idea that weakens it)

After you’ve decided your opinion,  generate 2-3 supporting points for it .

Now let’s generate supporting points for each of the opinions:

AA: Investment in arts, music and theatre is a waste of money

• Art, music and theatre don’t help to solve urgent problems of the society
• Art and music can develop as hobbies, and saved money can be directed towards urgent needs of the society
• If artists and musicians were employed at more traditional jobs, there would be a great benefit for science and industry

DD: Investment in arts, music and theatre is NOT a waste of money

• The arts and music preserve unique culture and heritage, passing nation’s cultural character and traditions to future generations
• Arts, music and theatre are an integral part of the society’s cultural and intellectual development and amusement
• A strong arts, music and theatre sector is an economic asset that creates new jobs and attracts tourism revenue

For this opinion, just combine ideas from the previous points.

For our essay, we’ll choose the last opinion - partially agree / disagree (AD).

Band 9 answer structure

There are a lot of ways to structure your essay, but we’ll use a structure that has been approved by many IELTS examiners to be high-scoring and coherent. Band-9 essay structure :

• Introduction

Body paragraph 1 - the 1st supporting point

• Body paragraph 2 - the 2nd supporting point

As you already know, you can write the supporting points of your body paragraphs in the following ways: agree + agree, disagree + disagree, agree + disagree. We’ll use the last option as our opinion is partially agree / disagree .

Let’s take a look at each of these sections in detail.

• Sentence 1 - paraphrase the statement  (you can use ‘ it is argued/considered/thought that ’ to start):

It is often argued that the government should finance public services instead of spending its budget on arts, music and theatre. 

• Sentence 2 - give your opinion :

Although I agree that government’s investments in public services play a very important role, I think that proper funding of arts sector is also crucial for the society.

• Sentence 1 - state the first reason you agree/disagree .

This sentence should contain the main idea of the whole 1st paragraph. In our case we’ll use the reason A: why it is important to finance public services. As we’ll be considering opposite opinions, it is a good idea to use a collocation on the one hand to introduce the first reason:

On the one hand, the government should definitely allocate a large part of its budget on public services.

• Sentences 2-3 - explain the reason .

To explain the reason effectively, you can imagine that your examiner didn’t understand what you were talking about and you have to explain every detail:

This economic sector determines the overall quality of life, ensuring that some basic services, like schools, hospitals and roads, are available to all citizens irrespective of their income or social status. Public services satisfy the primary needs of the society and thus need a proper funding, while artists and musicians are not curing diseases or building houses, so their role is secondary.

• Sentence 4 - example .

It’s always good to give examples in your body paragraphs, even if you’re not asked to do it (like in our case):

For example, any country can live without music concerts, but absence of medicine will create significant problems.

• Sentence 5 - a short summary of your ideas in this paragraph :

That’s why the government should adequately finance public services in the first place.

Body paragraph 2 - the 2nd reason you agree/disagree

• Sentence 1 - state the second reason you agree/disagree .

This statement should contain the main idea of the whole 2nd paragraph. This time we’ll use the reason D: why it is important to finance public services. As we are considering opposite opinions, it is a good idea to use a phrase on the other hand to introduce the second reason:

On the other hand, arts, music and theatre are not a waste of money, since they are an integral part of the society’s cultural and intellectual development and amusement.

• Sentences 2-3 - explain the reason  (assume that your examiner doesn’t understand the topic at all):

Firstly, art and music draw people’s attention to diverse phenomena and represent the inward significance of things. Quite often a single drawing, piece or song can exhort myriads of people to reconsider their attitude towards some situation. This way, art serves as a major source of nation’s personal and intellectual development. Moreover, visiting museums, watching movies and listening to music are common ways of relaxation and entertainment.

• Sentence 4 - support your idea with an example :

The question doesn’t ask us to give examples, plus we’ve already written a lot in this paragraph, so we’ll skip this point. 

• Sentence 5 - a short summary of your thoughts in the 2nd paragraph .

Thus, art sector is also important for the society and should not be neglected.

You can write the conclusion in  one sentence that summarizes your opinion + 2 reasons for it :

To conclude, though I agree that the government should allocate a large part of its budget on such urgent needs of the society like public services, I think that arts, music and theatre should also be financed since they play an important role in people’s development and entertainment.

DO NOT write new ideas in the conclusion!

Model answer

This is a full band-9 answer for to what extent you agree or disagree IELTS Writing question above:

It is often argued that the government should finance public services instead of spending its budget on arts, music and theatre. Although I agree that government’s investments in public services play a very important role, I think that proper funding of arts sector is also crucial for the society.

On the one hand, the government should definitely allocate a large part of its budget on public services. This economic sector determines the overall quality of life, ensuring that some basic services, like schools, hospitals and roads, are available to all citizens irrespective of their income or social status. Public services satisfy the primary needs of the society and thus need a proper funding, while artists and musicians are not curing diseases or building houses, so their role is secondary. For example, any country can live without music concerts, but absence of medicine will create significant problems. That’s why the government should adequately finance public services in the first place.

On the other hand, arts, music and theatre are not a waste of money, since they are an integral part of the society’s cultural and intellectual development and amusement. Firstly, art and music draw people’s attention to diverse phenomena and represent the inward significance of things. Quite often a single drawing, piece or song can exhort myriads of people to reconsider their attitude towards some situation. This way, art serves as a major source of nation’s personal and intellectual development. Moreover, visiting museums, watching movies and listening to music are common ways of relaxation and entertainment. Thus, art sector is also important for the society and should not be neglected.

How to answer “To what extent do you agree or disagree?” task 2 questions

Determine your position.

Support:  Doctors save lives and carry enormous responsibility for their patients’ wellbeing

Planning your essay writing

State your position. If you partially agree you can use a “while” statement: While it is true that doctors and teachers perform priceless services, on the whole I believe that it is impossible for them to be paid what top entertainers are paid. 

There are numerous jobs where it could be argued that people are not paid nearly enough for what they do, as in the case of doctors and teachers. Some, in fact, say they should be paid more than sports or entertainment stars.   While I understand the logic behind this, the world works differently and such a shift is impossible.

Essay structure

Task response, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, audio tutorial.

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• How to write an argumentative essay | Examples & tips

How to Write an Argumentative Essay | Examples & Tips

Published on July 24, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An argumentative essay expresses an extended argument for a particular thesis statement . The author takes a clearly defined stance on their subject and builds up an evidence-based case for it.

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Table of contents

When do you write an argumentative essay, approaches to argumentative essays, introducing your argument, the body: developing your argument, concluding your argument, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about argumentative essays.

You might be assigned an argumentative essay as a writing exercise in high school or in a composition class. The prompt will often ask you to argue for one of two positions, and may include terms like “argue” or “argument.” It will frequently take the form of a question.

The prompt may also be more open-ended in terms of the possible arguments you could make.

Argumentative writing at college level

At university, the vast majority of essays or papers you write will involve some form of argumentation. For example, both rhetorical analysis and literary analysis essays involve making arguments about texts.

In this context, you won’t necessarily be told to write an argumentative essay—but making an evidence-based argument is an essential goal of most academic writing, and this should be your default approach unless you’re told otherwise.

Examples of argumentative essay prompts

At a university level, all the prompts below imply an argumentative essay as the appropriate response.

Your research should lead you to develop a specific position on the topic. The essay then argues for that position and aims to convince the reader by presenting your evidence, evaluation and analysis.

• Don’t just list all the effects you can think of.
• Do develop a focused argument about the overall effect and why it matters, backed up by evidence from sources.
• Don’t just provide a selection of data on the measures’ effectiveness.
• Do build up your own argument about which kinds of measures have been most or least effective, and why.
• Don’t just analyze a random selection of doppelgänger characters.
• Do form an argument about specific texts, comparing and contrasting how they express their thematic concerns through doppelgänger characters.

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An argumentative essay should be objective in its approach; your arguments should rely on logic and evidence, not on exaggeration or appeals to emotion.

There are many possible approaches to argumentative essays, but there are two common models that can help you start outlining your arguments: The Toulmin model and the Rogerian model.

Toulmin arguments

The Toulmin model consists of four steps, which may be repeated as many times as necessary for the argument:

• Make a claim
• Provide the grounds (evidence) for the claim
• Explain the warrant (how the grounds support the claim)
• Discuss possible rebuttals to the claim, identifying the limits of the argument and showing that you have considered alternative perspectives

The Toulmin model is a common approach in academic essays. You don’t have to use these specific terms (grounds, warrants, rebuttals), but establishing a clear connection between your claims and the evidence supporting them is crucial in an argumentative essay.

Say you’re making an argument about the effectiveness of workplace anti-discrimination measures. You might:

• Claim that unconscious bias training does not have the desired results, and resources would be better spent on other approaches
• Cite data to support your claim
• Explain how the data indicates that the method is ineffective
• Anticipate objections to your claim based on other data, indicating whether these objections are valid, and if not, why not.

Rogerian arguments

The Rogerian model also consists of four steps you might repeat throughout your essay:

• Discuss what the opposing position gets right and why people might hold this position
• Highlight the problems with this position
• Present your own position , showing how it addresses these problems
• Suggest a possible compromise —what elements of your position would proponents of the opposing position benefit from adopting?

This model builds up a clear picture of both sides of an argument and seeks a compromise. It is particularly useful when people tend to disagree strongly on the issue discussed, allowing you to approach opposing arguments in good faith.

Say you want to argue that the internet has had a positive impact on education. You might:

• Acknowledge that students rely too much on websites like Wikipedia
• Argue that teachers view Wikipedia as more unreliable than it really is
• Suggest that Wikipedia’s system of citations can actually teach students about referencing
• Suggest critical engagement with Wikipedia as a possible assignment for teachers who are skeptical of its usefulness.

You don’t necessarily have to pick one of these models—you may even use elements of both in different parts of your essay—but it’s worth considering them if you struggle to structure your arguments.

Regardless of which approach you take, your essay should always be structured using an introduction , a body , and a conclusion .

Like other academic essays, an argumentative essay begins with an introduction . The introduction serves to capture the reader’s interest, provide background information, present your thesis statement , and (in longer essays) to summarize the structure of the body.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a typical introduction works.

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.

The body of an argumentative essay is where you develop your arguments in detail. Here you’ll present evidence, analysis, and reasoning to convince the reader that your thesis statement is true.

In the standard five-paragraph format for short essays, the body takes up three of your five paragraphs. In longer essays, it will be more paragraphs, and might be divided into sections with headings.

Each paragraph covers its own topic, introduced with a topic sentence . Each of these topics must contribute to your overall argument; don’t include irrelevant information.

This example paragraph takes a Rogerian approach: It first acknowledges the merits of the opposing position and then highlights problems with that position.

Hover over different parts of the example to see how a body paragraph is constructed.

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

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An argumentative essay ends with a conclusion that summarizes and reflects on the arguments made in the body.

No new arguments or evidence appear here, but in longer essays you may discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your argument and suggest topics for future research. In all conclusions, you should stress the relevance and importance of your argument.

Hover over the following example to see the typical elements of a conclusion.

The internet has had a major positive impact on the world of education; occasional pitfalls aside, its value is evident in numerous applications. The future of teaching lies in the possibilities the internet opens up for communication, research, and interactivity. As the popularity of distance learning shows, students value the flexibility and accessibility offered by digital education, and educators should fully embrace these advantages. The internet’s dangers, real and imaginary, have been documented exhaustively by skeptics, but the internet is here to stay; it is time to focus seriously on its potential for good.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

• Ad hominem fallacy
• Post hoc fallacy
• Appeal to authority fallacy
• False cause fallacy
• Sunk cost fallacy

College essays

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• Write a College Essay
• Write a Diversity Essay
• College Essay Format & Structure
• Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay

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An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

The majority of the essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Unless otherwise specified, you can assume that the goal of any essay you’re asked to write is argumentative: To convince the reader of your position using evidence and reasoning.

In composition classes you might be given assignments that specifically test your ability to write an argumentative essay. Look out for prompts including instructions like “argue,” “assess,” or “discuss” to see if this is the goal.

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How to Answer “To What Extent Essay” Question

Jan 26, 2022

Jan 26, 2022 | Blog

Introduction

Essay-based examinations are one of the most devastating exams students have to face.

These exams are devastating and intimidating because you have to understand all the facts and information about an essay.

Want to read a First-class “to what extent essay…” paper? Here at EssayFreelanceWriters.Com, our specialty is writing exceptional essays to use as inspiration and learning for your own argumentative essay writing and coursework writing.

Unsure where to start with how to answer to what extent essay? Please send us your essay title , and let our academics guide you to success.

The most common extent questions that we will tackle include;

• “To what extent..”
• “How does the writer….”
• “Compare and contrast….”
• “For and against….”
• Close reference

How to answer “To what extent Essay” Question

Popular question types that appear on exams is one that starts with the phrase, “To what extent/degree.” Although it appears frequently and especially in exam papers, some teachers or students may not know how to write a sophisticated response.

Thankfully these common questions are simple as long as you know specifically what they’re asking for.

Being asked to write an essay response for a “To what extent’ question” can be daunting, but don’t worry! I’m here to help.

This blog post will explain how you should answer this inquiry type and provide tips on writing your assessment pieces to be concise and confident.

Understanding the “To What Extent Questions”

To start, it is important to understand the meaning of ‘degrees’ or ‘extent’ in this type of question.

Regardless if one word is used over another, they both mean the same thing: they ask you to assign a degree on how influential or important a particular factor is regarding that topic at hand.

There are many ways to measure the importance of something, but a simple scale can be helpful.

The most important question you will be asked in the essay test is to what degree/extent. It would help if you argued which of two things was more important and why it should win over its competitor.

So, you will argue that one of the two factors was “to a greater degree” important while the other is “to a lesser extent.”

Many factors can come into play when it comes to who or what is the most important.

There may be a time when only one factor was necessary for someone’s success, but this would not often happen as there are always other contributing elements at hand.

In a nutshell, an essay question that asks, “to what extent…” is generally prompting you to explain how much you agree with the idea being posed.

It is not – as is sometimes thought by students – asking whether you outright agree or disagree with the idea.

With these types of questions, if you choose not to agree with the idea being posed, you might end up with a very short essay, or worse, with a failing grade.

So, if the answer to a “to what extent…” essay question is nearly always “yes, I agree,” you might wonder what the point of the essay is. The key here is in understanding the essay questions.

To What Extent Essay Writing

This is one of the most asked essay questions when it comes to exams.

You will see these questions appearing in different papers many times because the examiner wants them to exhibit their diverse skills in the subject.

The examiner wants to see how well you understand the subject that is being talked about.

How well you can explain your knowledge concerning the subject is also examined in the question.

This kind of question will also help students display their judgments concerning specific information they have captured from the subject matter.

There are many difficulties when it comes to write-ups that ask ‘Agree or Disagree.’ The IELTS writing popularizes this type of writing–the most famous test people take to prove their English language expertise.

With this article, we will guide you on which structure might work best for your essay writing and how you can generate ideas and support them with evidence within a sentence.

Before all that, though, check out some questions one could expect during an International Language Testing System (IELTS).

‘To What Extent Questions Examples

IELTS exams are challenging and can feel impossible. There’s a lot of waiting around, but don’t worry! The writing will help you get through the test with ease. They’ll give you an idea of what to expect in your exam as well so that it won’t be completely foreign when taking them out into real-life situations such as job interviews or meetings at work–or even just regular conversations with friends about current events.

• Young people make the best leaders of today’s tech-driven organizations. How much do you concur or disapprove?
• Public libraries have been a waste of resources since computer technology evolved. Discuss.
• Age group is a key determinant of purchasing decisions. Do you concede or dissent? To what degree?

What to include in your Custom “To What Great Extent ” or “To Very small Extent” Essay.

When it comes to answering the to what extent question, there are two things that you need to include.

1) You need to ensure that you have detailed source evidence and extra material to support your argument.

When you have evidence concerning what you are talking about, you will earn marks because you know what you are talking about concerning the subject.

Having the evidence will also help you to support your argument and judgments.

2) You should be able to link to wider issues, topics, or arguments that support your point of view.

Your ability to produce other factors that affect your point of view will widen the importance of your argument.

These two elements are very important when answering “to what extent questions” in an essay.

It is important to remember that in answering this type of essay question, ensure you stick to the general structure and change only those places that require changes.

Being able to analyze your evidence is also very important.

When it comes to analyzing your evidence, get some questions that can help you out.

For example, get to answer the potential weaknesses that the evidence has.

How to structure your custom to what extent essay

When you consider essay writers, we will help you develop a series of custom essay formats.

The importance of these custom essay formats is to help you to answer essay-based questions correctly briefly. When you consider us, you will excel in your examinations because we offer a step-to-step solution to the questions. You will learn and get more information concerning

When it comes to answering to what extent kind of question, a custom essay should look as follows.

It is important to ensure that your introduction is brief and as clear as possible, and you understand the requirements of the question.

Here you are expected to give a brief answer to the question given.

To what extent question, you need to ensure you agree with the statement of the example essay question to a certain extent.

Consider taking into account other aspects that influence the essay topic .

Body Paragraph 1 and 2

To prove the assumption stated is true in a question, you are expected to provide detailed evidence.

This is what paragraphs one and two are all about.

You are also supposed to explain why the question is true based on the evidence that you have.

You are also expected to answer the question as a whole.

Incorporating detailed evidence will always demonstrate how much you know of the subject matter and will help to support the angle and strength of your argument.

Linking sentence

The linking sentence part is where you run through the main points you explained in paragraphs 1 and 2.

It is also important to know that this kind of question cannot completely be true because you will explain other aspects that play a part in the subject.

Paragraphs 3 and 4

This part of the essay will explain the extent to which the question is not true.

You can do this in two ways.

• You can do this by showing the weaknesses in the question.
• You can also do this by giving alternatives.

To answer to what degree questions essay, you must end your essay through a concluding summary.

Any ‘To what extent’ custom essay must end with a conclusion that answers the question. Recap the points that suggest it was true and the points against, and then conclude whether you agree the statement is true ‘To a certain extent, ‘To a great extent, or ‘To a very small extent.

The concluding summary will answer the overall question. You can do the concluding summary in the following way. Highlight points that claim the question to be true. Highlight the points that claim the question to be untrue.

After you have done this, do a conclusion based on your judgment on whether you agree with the statement to be true and to which extent.

You can either agree with the statement to a great extent, a small extent, or to a certain extent.

It is also important to ensure you conclude with a summary of both sides’ arguments and explain why you choose one side over the other.

Once you are done doing this, it is important to consider going through the formatting guidelines to ensure your work is clean and required.

It is essential to proofread your work so that it can be free from errors and omissions.

Get help with your To what Extent Essay Questions

You can consider getting a proofreader who can help you out because you may miss out on some errors and omissions when you proofread your work.

When you have written your essay correctly, you will be assured of getting the best grades.

With a passion for helping students navigate their educational journey, I strive to create informative and relatable blog content. Whether it’s tackling exam stress, offering career guidance, or sharing effective study techniques

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Essay and dissertation writing skills

Planning your essay

Writing your introduction

Structuring your essay

• Writing essays in science subjects
• Brief video guides to support essay planning and writing
• Writing extended essays and dissertations
• Planning your dissertation writing time

Structuring your dissertation

• Top tips for writing longer pieces of work

Advice on planning and writing essays and dissertations

University essays differ from school essays in that they are less concerned with what you know and more concerned with how you construct an argument to answer the question. This means that the starting point for writing a strong essay is to first unpick the question and to then use this to plan your essay before you start putting pen to paper (or finger to keyboard).

A really good starting point for you are these short, downloadable Tips for Successful Essay Writing and Answering the Question resources. Both resources will help you to plan your essay, as well as giving you guidance on how to distinguish between different sorts of essay questions. 

You may find it helpful to watch this seven-minute video on six tips for essay writing which outlines how to interpret essay questions, as well as giving advice on planning and structuring your writing:

Different disciplines will have different expectations for essay structure and you should always refer to your Faculty or Department student handbook or course Canvas site for more specific guidance.

However, broadly speaking, all essays share the following features:

Essays need an introduction to establish and focus the parameters of the discussion that will follow. You may find it helpful to divide the introduction into areas to demonstrate your breadth and engagement with the essay question. You might define specific terms in the introduction to show your engagement with the essay question; for example, ‘This is a large topic which has been variously discussed by many scientists and commentators. The principal tension is between the views of X and Y who define the main issues as…’ Breadth might be demonstrated by showing the range of viewpoints from which the essay question could be considered; for example, ‘A variety of factors including economic, social and political, influence A and B. This essay will focus on the social and economic aspects, with particular emphasis on…..’

Watch this two-minute video to learn more about how to plan and structure an introduction:

The main body of the essay should elaborate on the issues raised in the introduction and develop an argument(s) that answers the question. It should consist of a number of self-contained paragraphs each of which makes a specific point and provides some form of evidence to support the argument being made. Remember that a clear argument requires that each paragraph explicitly relates back to the essay question or the developing argument.

• Conclusion: An essay should end with a conclusion that reiterates the argument in light of the evidence you have provided; you shouldn’t use the conclusion to introduce new information.
• References: You need to include references to the materials you’ve used to write your essay. These might be in the form of footnotes, in-text citations, or a bibliography at the end. Different systems exist for citing references and different disciplines will use various approaches to citation. Ask your tutor which method(s) you should be using for your essay and also consult your Department or Faculty webpages for specific guidance in your discipline. 

Essay writing in science subjects

If you are writing an essay for a science subject you may need to consider additional areas, such as how to present data or diagrams. This five-minute video gives you some advice on how to approach your reading list, planning which information to include in your answer and how to write for your scientific audience – the video is available here:

A PDF providing further guidance on writing science essays for tutorials is available to download.

Short videos to support your essay writing skills

There are many other resources at Oxford that can help support your essay writing skills and if you are short on time, the Oxford Study Skills Centre has produced a number of short (2-minute) videos covering different aspects of essay writing, including:

• Approaching different types of essay questions  
• Structuring your essay  
• Writing an introduction  
• Making use of evidence in your essay writing  
• Writing your conclusion

Extended essays and dissertations

Longer pieces of writing like extended essays and dissertations may seem like quite a challenge from your regular essay writing. The important point is to start with a plan and to focus on what the question is asking. A PDF providing further guidance on planning Humanities and Social Science dissertations is available to download.

Planning your time effectively

Try not to leave the writing until close to your deadline, instead start as soon as you have some ideas to put down onto paper. Your early drafts may never end up in the final work, but the work of committing your ideas to paper helps to formulate not only your ideas, but the method of structuring your writing to read well and conclude firmly.

Although many students and tutors will say that the introduction is often written last, it is a good idea to begin to think about what will go into it early on. For example, the first draft of your introduction should set out your argument, the information you have, and your methods, and it should give a structure to the chapters and sections you will write. Your introduction will probably change as time goes on but it will stand as a guide to your entire extended essay or dissertation and it will help you to keep focused.

The structure of  extended essays or dissertations will vary depending on the question and discipline, but may include some or all of the following:

• The background information to - and context for - your research. This often takes the form of a literature review.
• Explanation of the focus of your work.
• Explanation of the value of this work to scholarship on the topic.
• List of the aims and objectives of the work and also the issues which will not be covered because they are outside its scope.

The main body of your extended essay or dissertation will probably include your methodology, the results of research, and your argument(s) based on your findings.

The conclusion is to summarise the value your research has added to the topic, and any further lines of research you would undertake given more time or resources. 

Tips on writing longer pieces of work

Approaching each chapter of a dissertation as a shorter essay can make the task of writing a dissertation seem less overwhelming. Each chapter will have an introduction, a main body where the argument is developed and substantiated with evidence, and a conclusion to tie things together. Unlike in a regular essay, chapter conclusions may also introduce the chapter that will follow, indicating how the chapters are connected to one another and how the argument will develop through your dissertation.

For further guidance, watch this two-minute video on writing longer pieces of work . 

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