Write down the main idea or research problem addressed by your essay.
Reread your essay. As you read, highlight key sentences that support your thesis statement or explain your research methodology.
Write a concise summary of the information conveyed in the key sentences.
Type your draft into a word processing document for ease of editing and to establish a word count.
Revise your draft: trim excess detail, rephrase overly technical language or jargon, and eliminate repetitive word usage. Aim for a draft that meets your word count/optimal length.
Scrutinize your draft again and revise to make connections between sentences smooth and logical.
Edit for spelling, grammar, and format.