Study the letter requirements. Determine what information the scholarship organization requires in your letter, such as the addressee and purpose of the letter. Brainstorm ideas based on these requirements. For example, if the letter will be directed to the president of a foundation, see if her biography or the organization's mission statement is online. Look for items in the biography that you can connect to your own interests. If the letter introduces you to the granting committee, make a list of your best attributes/activities, and chose the ones that are best suited for an introduction.
Develop a focus and an outline. Write a sentence that conveys the main point you want the readers to understand. This point should explain why you deserve the scholarship. Create an outline of items that will help you convince your audience of your main point. List two to four reasons why you deserve the scholarship as major points in your outline. Include specific examples of your successes or future goals that are related to the organization's mission as outline sub-points. These sub-points reinforce your assertion that you are best suited for the scholarship.
Convert the outline into a draft letter. Do not pay attention to specific essay requirements regarding word counts and page lengths at this time. Write until you feel you have conveyed your point, and do not worry about word choice or grammar. When you have finished, set this draft aside for a time.
Review your draft after taking a break. You should preferably return to the draft a day or two after writing it, but if this is not possible, make sure you let the document sit for at least a half hour. Read the entire document with a pen in hand, and circle especially moving or clear portions. Place an "X" through unclear or unnecessary portions, and then replace unclear or ineffective words with better choices. Use words that convey emotion when appropriate. For example, instead of saying that you are "looking forward to college," you can write about "looking forward to accomplishing your dream." Compare your draft with your outline, and if necessary, revise your draft so it harmonizes with your outline.
Write a second draft. Eliminate areas in the first draft that you marked with an "X," and keep all word choice changes. Focus your letter and make sure it proves the point you outlined in Step Two. Ask a friend, parent or instructor to read your letter and point out any confusing areas. Make any necessary changes, and then cut or expand your letter to meet word count and page requirement specifications.
Proofread and format the letter. Run your letter through a spelling and grammar check on your computer, and then ask someone to manually review the letter for grammar, spelling and punctuation mistakes. Review the scholarship organization's requirements and ensure your letter meets all of them. Format your letter according to the requirements, or if none are specified, use traditional business letter formatting. Check your formatting against sample business letters. When your letter is complete, submit it to the organization.