How to Write a Guide for GCSE

In a guide you should:

• Start with a clear and attention-grabbing headline:

  • Try using a rhetorical question or a bold statement

  • For example: “Think your mobile phones are healthy?”

• Begin with a short introduction that outlines the topic and its importance:

  • To add credibility, include a made-up quote from a named “expert”

  • For example: “Dr Graham, a psychologist, states that, ‘Teenagers are more stressed than ever and technology is part of the problem’”

• Use clear subheadings to help organise the information for the reader:

  • Refer to the bullet points in the question to guide the structure of your response

• Speak directly to your audience throughout:

  • Make it obvious to the examiner that you understand who you are writing for

• Match your tone to the task:

  • Consider whether it should be friendly, serious or fun

• Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence:

  • Develop your ideas clearly without repairing previous points

  • Avoid beginning with “I’m writing this because...” or “In this guide I shall be discussing…”

• Use bullet points sparingly:

  • They are best suited to quick summaries or helpful tips

Is healthy eating really worth the effort for teenagers?

This is your opportunity to engage your reader, so use inclusive language and some facts:

• Many teenagers struggle to balance school, social life and eating well, but small changes in diet can make a huge difference. 

What does healthy eating actually mean?

Why it matters

Food and mental health

Finish with a conclusion indicating where the reader could go for further information, e.g.:

• For simple, teen-friendly meal ideas and tips, check out websites like…