2
Outline the main points of your topic and narrow them down until you are left with the top two or three. Be careful not to select points that you will have a hard time explaining in only a few sentences. Build your thesis statement based on the argument your paper is making from the identified points.
3
Draft your introduction, saving your thesis statement for the last sentence of the introduction. Start the introduction with something catchy to engage the reader.
4
Compose the body of the essay, which is the supporting paragraphs. Make sure the paragraphs relate to the thesis statement and transition smoothly. Write each paragraph as if it could stand alone in the essay, being sure to introduce the issue and complete the thought with a closing sentence.
5
Write the conclusion to wrap up the paper. Summarize the main points discussed in the body and briefly explain how the thesis statement proves true given the information provided in the essay. Remember, this is your first draft so expect your essay to run longer than one page the first time around.
6
Edit your essay by trimming away the fluff. Condense words and sentences to shorten the length without weakening your paper. Do as