How to Write a Psychology Essay That Hits the Top Band
If you’ve ever stared at a 16-mark question thinking, Where do I even start?, you’re not alone. AQA A Level Psychology essay questions — especially on topics like Social Learning Theory — demand more than just knowledge. You need structure, evaluation, and a clear argument that flows.
That’s why we’ve created a free psychology essay PDF that shows you exactly how to do it.
This model answer tackles the classic AQA A Level Psychology Social Learning Theory 16 marker, using a structure that examiners love:
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A clear AO1 paragraph covering the assumptions of Social Learning Theory, including mediational processes like attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation
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A hook question that sets up a debate: Can we truly understand human behaviour without considering internal thoughts and emotions?
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Two AO3 paragraphs packed with evaluation — one arguing that SLT offers a richer explanation than Behaviourism, and one defending Behaviourism using classic studies like Pavlov, Skinner, and Watson
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Each evaluation paragraph includes three pieces of empirical research and links back to the hook
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It also covers the limitations of Social Learning Theory and its strengths and weaknesses in explaining gender development
This isn’t just a good answer — it’s a blueprint for how to approach any AQA A Level Psychology Social Learning Theory exam question.
Why This Structure Works
Students often lose marks by writing everything they know without linking it to the question. This model shows you how to:
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Use research studies to support your points
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Include a brief counterargument before linking back to the question
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Evaluate the theory in terms of real-world application, scientific credibility, and generalisation from animal studies
It’s also designed to be visually appealing and easy to follow — perfect for revision, peer-marking, or building your own answers.
Download Your Free Psychology Essay PDF
If you want to see how full marks are achieved — and use this structure for your next mock — grab your free download below.