Brainstorm essay topics. If you were not assigned a topic, complete preliminary Internet and library research to find a topic that interests you. Use general keywords to search for resources that can lead you to a working topic and thesis, which will be the main proposition of your essay.
Refine your topic. Find useful information by being specific. For example, instead of looking for information about "Shakespeare's poetry," search for "symbolism in the love sonnets of Shakespeare."
Use a variety of sources. Don't rely solely on the Internet to find information. Visit the library and gather information from books, periodicals and academic journals.
Check bibliography, reference or suggested-reading sections at the end of magazine articles or books for additional sources.
Evaluate information. Analyze the information to see if it's relevant, timely and credible. Is it directly related to your essay's thesis? Is the information outdated, or can it still be used to support your argument? Does the information come from a credible source, such as a peer-reviewed journal?
Organize information. Use your computer, file folders or note cards to keep track of the sources you'll use in writing the essay. Consult a style manual, such as The Chicago Manual of Style, to learn how to quote or paraphrase information in your essay, as well as how to create a bibliography.