Research your paper thoroughly and take copious notes. Evaluate the usefulness and validity of the information you collect to ensure the information in your paper is reliable.The more information you have for your paper, the easier it will be to plan and write. Try to separate your information into different topics. This will make organizing your paper easier later.
Develop a thesis statement. Try to identify the central problem or question of your essay, and then attempt to solve or answer it. This is usually a thesis statement, an argumentative sentence that typically comes at the end of your introductory paragraph.
Write an outline of your paper. You will need an introductory paragraph to act as a guide to your paper and make an argument. The subsequent paragraphs are the body of your essay and support your argument. The closing paragraph will sum up your paper. In your outline you should provide a rough idea of what you want to write in each of these sections. An outline will help keep you on track when you begin to write. Consider which paragraphs the information you have collected belongs in.
Write your paper. Try to follow your outline to avoid omitting information or confusing yourself. However, don't be afraid to diverge if you discover new information or want to expand your ideas. Remember that every paragraph should deal with a single idea and seem to naturally transition into the next. This can be achieved by including a topic sentence which introduces your paragraph and shows how it relates to the prior information. Ensure that every argument or claim that you make is backed up with proven research that is carefully cited. Ask your instructor about the expectations they have for citation.
Write several drafts of your paper and edit carefully. You should seek to trim unnecessary information with each draft. Consider how the information in your paper supports your ideas.