Introduction

Getting an A* in A-Level History is not about memorising dates; it is about argument, evaluation, judgement and historical thinking. The best students know how to build convincing essays, use evidence effectively and think like historians, not just learners.

At Apollo Scholars, we help students achieve top grades through structured online 1:1 and group tuition, focusing on exam technique, essay structure and analytical thinking. This guide explains exactly how to secure an A*, and answers the questions students commonly ask.

Access more History resources here.

1. What do examiners look for in A* A-Level History essays?

To achieve an A*, your essays must demonstrate:

• Clear argument and judgement from the introduction onwards
• Consistent use of evidence to support arguments
• Critical evaluation, not description
• Understanding of significance and causation
• Balanced analysis, weighing different perspectives
• A convincing conclusion

Examiners want a student who can think, not simply recall facts.

2. How should I structure an A-Level History essay?

A strong A* History essay follows a clear structure:

Introduction

• Answer the question immediately
• State your central argument
• Outline the factors you will assess

Main paragraphs
Use the PEEL method with a historical twist:

• Point – clear argument linked to the question
• Evidence – precise facts, examples, statistics
• Explain – why this matters historically
• Evaluate – weigh significance and compare with other factors

Conclusion

• Make a firm judgement
• Explain why it is the strongest argument
• Refer back directly to the question

Avoid storytelling; focus on argument.

3. What separates A students from A* students in History?

A-grade students:

• Know the content well
• Can write structured essays
• Offer some analysis

A* students:

• Evaluate constantly
• Challenge assumptions
• Link arguments together
• Consider change over time, causation and significance
• Show historical insight

It is the quality of thinking that earns the A*.

How do I revise effectively for A-Level History?

To revise successfully:

• Create argument-based revision notes, not just topic summaries
• Build timeline knowledge to understand chronology
• Learn key historians’ interpretations
• Practise essay writing regularly
• Use past papers and mark schemes

Active revision beats passive reading.

How important are historians’ views and interpretations?

Very important, especially for interpretation questions.

You should:

• Know key historians for each topic
• Understand differences in interpretation
• Analyse why historians disagree
• Refer to historiography naturally in essays

This shows maturity and deep understanding.

How to Use Historians’ Views in A-Level History Essays (Without Losing Marks)

What are the biggest mistakes students make?

Common pitfalls include:

• Writing narrative “story” answers
• Weak conclusions
• Lack of evaluation
• Vague evidence
• Running out of time
• Not answering the question directly

With structured support, these are easy to fix.

How much should I write in the exam?

Quality beats quantity, but as a guide:

• Well-developed paragraphs
• Consistent evaluation
• Clear argument throughout

Practicing under timed conditions is essential.

Can tutoring really help me get an A*?

Absolutely.

At Apollo Scholars, we help students:

• Build powerful essay structure
• Develop critical thinking and judgement
• Improve writing clarity and precision
• Master exam technique and time management
• Gain confidence and consistency

Whether you are working at a B aiming for an A, or pushing for that final jump to A*, targeted tuition makes a measurable difference.

Are you ready to secure an A* in A-Level History?

If you want expert guidance, structured practice and personalised feedback, we are here to help.

📚 Book your online A-Level History tuition today. We offer 1:1 and group tuition, tailored to exam success.