If you get the option to choose your own essay question, pick a subject area you enjoy writing about or have experience with. You will able to talk about your own thoughts and expand on arguments presented in the literature. It will also be far easier to motivate yourself so you don't become bored. Always refer back to the question as you're researching and writing the essay to avoid wasting time and to be sure you answer it directly, rather than just talking about topics related to it.
Don't be scared or worried about speaking to your instructor. Instructors are experts on the subject and have chosen to dedicate their career to it. Ask them for any help or advice you need, or their opinions on issues if you are short of ideas or looking for inspiration.
It's essential that you do lots of research to present strong and balanced arguments. Use a variety of sources such as books, journals and primary research from interviews that are dated over a long period of time for your research.
Different schools and instructors will favor different styles, but there are certain rules to follow. Always be concise and go straight to the point. Also make sure you state the obvious facts or list any assumptions that you are making. You might know what you're saying, but that doesn't mean the reader will. Don't use long and unnecessary words to impress.
Structures vary depending on the type of essay and length. Make sure yours has an introduction, a middle and an end. Work out what your essay will say before you start writing by typing out notes or subsections that you can add to throughout.
Always make reference to the sources you've used with an appropriate referencing style. Don't copy large sections of text without giving the source as this is plagiarism. Many schools now get students to submit work through scanning software to detect plagiarism.
Always read through your work several times before handing it in to be sure that you're happy with what you've said and that there aren't any spelling or grammar mistakes. If possible ask a friend or family member to read through it as well to get their thoughts and opinions.