How to Write the Perfect Essay on An Inspector Calls Using the PEEL Structure

Writing an essay on An Inspector Calls can feel daunting at first. Whether you’re preparing for GCSE English Literature or Edexcel IGCSE Paper 2, a clear paragraph structure is essential for building strong, focused responses. One of the best methods to use when starting out is the PEEL structure. This tried-and-tested format helps you stay organised, write with purpose, and develop analytical thinking — all of which are critical for success in exam conditions.

What is the PEEL Paragraph Structure?

PEEL is a planning and writing strategy that helps you build exam-ready paragraphs. Each letter represents a step in structuring your argument:

Using PEEL ensures your writing is focused and avoids the common trap of simply retelling the story or listing quotes.

Why Use PEEL in An Inspector Calls Essays?

PEEL is especially effective for:

• Structuring exam answers under pressure
• Meeting the requirements of Assessment Objective 1 (AO1): demonstrating knowledge and understanding of the text
• Supporting students who are building confidence with analytical writing

For GCSE and Edexcel IGCSE English Literature students, PEEL provides a strong foundation before progressing to more advanced paragraph formats like PETAL.

Sentence Starters to Help You Begin

These openers can help you structure your thinking as you write:

Point: Priestley presents [character/theme] as…

Evidence: This is shown when the character says, “…”

Explanation: This implies that… / This highlights how…

Link: This connects to Priestley’s message about… / It reflects the theme of…

Example PEEL Paragraph (Short Form)

Essay Question: How does Priestley present Mr Birling in the play?

P: Priestley presents Mr Birling as arrogant and short-sighted.
E: This is shown when he says, “The Titanic… absolutely unsinkable.”
E: This suggests that Birling has overconfidence in progress and ignores reality.
L: Priestley uses this as dramatic irony to criticise complacency among the wealthy. 

From PEEL to PETAL — What’s Next?

Once you’re confident using PEEL, you can begin to include analysis of how Priestley writes — not just what he says. That’s where PETAL comes in.

PETAL builds on PEEL by helping you meet Assessment Objective 2 (AO2) — focusing on Priestley’s techniques such as language, form and structure.

Here’s what each letter stands for:

P – Point
E – Evidence
T – Technique (e.g. dramatic irony, symbolism)
A – Analysis (what the technique reveals)
L – Link (back to the question or theme)

Example PETAL Paragraph:

Essay Question: How does Priestley use Mr Birling to critique capitalist attitudes?

P: Priestley presents Mr Birling as a symbol of capitalist arrogance.
E: This is shown when he states, “The Titanic… absolutely unsinkable.”
T: Priestley uses dramatic irony.
A: The audience knows the Titanic sank, so Birling’s certainty makes him appear foolish — undermining his authority.
L: This reflects Priestley’s message that blind faith in progress and profit is dangerous.

Want more help writing advanced responses? The full revision guide on our An Inspector Calls: Revision Resources Page includes:

• PETAL writing templates
• Grade 4 vs Grade 8 examples
• Essay planning pages and feedback checklists

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is PEEL enough to get top marks in my GCSE essay?

PEEL is a strong foundation. For Grades 4–6, it helps structure solid responses. To reach Grades 7–9, you’ll need to go further by analysing Priestley’s language and dramatic methods — which PETAL supports.

Q: Can I use PEEL in Edexcel IGCSE Paper 2?

Yes. PEEL helps you meet AO1. Once confident, transitioning to PETAL allows you to effectively include AO2, which is essential for full marks.

Where to Go From Here

Ready to build your essay writing skills? Start using PEEL to structure your next answer.

Looking to progress? Learn how to master the PETAL technique and more advanced essay skills in the Full Revision Guide on our An Inspector Calls: Revision Resources Page.

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