Research the essay topic to find as many credible sources as possible. Cite only online sources from sites ending in .org, .gov or .edu unless otherwise credible.
Write a thesis based on your research. Your thesis should be straight to the point, such as, "Characteristics of the Renaissance are seen in the film through theme, style and technique."
Outline the essay with specific and supportive points. Use Roman numerals to mark main points and letters to mark sub-points. For instance:
II. Main point
A. Supporting point
B. Supporting point
C. Supporting point
Write an effective lead telling the reader the "what" and "why" of the essay. Introduce the thesis within one sentence near the end of the introduction.
Draft the body paragraphs according to your outline. Use active verbs and avoid overusing adverbs and adjectives. Get to the point and avoid breezy writing which detracts from the main point and draws attention to the writer.
Conclude with a brief summary of the essay followed by a restatement of the thesis. End the essay with a memorable quote, statistic, observation or call to action.