Research your subject. Your first stop should be the library. Look for both primary and secondary sources. Ask a librarian for assistance in finding those sources that best meet your needs. While a great source for journal articles and books, approach Internet research with care. Many websites may contain unverified claims or mistakes.
Narrow down your research. This may be more difficult than finding the sources in the first place, making three pages seem short. Your instructor has restricted the word count for good reason. The point of an informative essay is to give a reader a basic overview of your subject. It is best to stick to the main points: the who, what, where, when and why of your subject, as well as popular reaction, controversy and/or debate pertaining your subject. Creating an outline can help you to organize and streamline your paper.
Begin your introduction. This provides some general information about the background of your subject and allows your readers to “meet” your subject. The most important aspect of your introduction--and the one your instructor will pay particular attention to--is the thesis statement. In an informative essay, your thesis statement has nothing to do with your theories or opinions about the subject but why the subject is relevant. A strong informative essay thesis statement is detailed but to the point. The rest of your paper will relate back to the thesis statement.
Write the body. The body paragraphs will explain what the subject is, when and how it came about, and why it's important in context to a period of time or a movement, as well as the reactions to the subject. Add supporting quotes or ideas from your research as necessary, citing these in accordance with your instructor's preference. Define any terms or concepts your readers may be unfamiliar with. As space is limited, be succinct. One or two paragraphs per point may be enough.
Remain unbiased as you write. This may be difficult to do if the subject is especially controversial. However, an informative essay seeks to provide the reader with an objective account of the subject. Whatever your stance, remember that an informative essay is not an opinion piece. Take a step back and do your best to write in an impartial manner.
End your informative essay with a conclusion. The conclusion of an informative essay is a short recap of the main points you have made about the subject with reference to its broader context and relevancy today.