Make a flowchart. Using a pen or pencil and notepaper, jot down the subject of your essay in the middle of the page, and circle it. Add the elements of the topic to be elaborated on in smaller circles and connect them to the main topic with straight lines. Add subtopics in circles, connecting them to their topics with lines. Continue doing this until the idea is fully developed. Barbara Sher's book, "Wishcraft," has an excellent example of this process.
Alternatively, make an outline, which will start with a topic and develop it in a linear manner. Place the main points to be addressed under the topic, leaving space between them. Place the subtopics under those topics. Continue expanding the outline until everything to be mentioned is accounted for on the page.
Check the style guide for the publication for which you are writing. Formatting the essay properly will save time during the editing process. If there is no stated style, the American Psychological Association style guide or the Chicago Manual of Style are common styles to follow.
Start with a strong introductory paragraph to draw readers in and let them know why the topic is relevant.
Follow your outline or flow chart, so that the points being raised are presented in a logical, concise manner. Check off each point as it is addressed, so that nothing is omitted.
Write a strong conclusion, restating the premise of the essay.
Check your spelling and grammar. Sloppy writing is almost always a deal breaker.
Read the essay through once, then put it aside for a few hours.
Reread the essay to ensure it is coherent, stays on point and has no spelling or grammatical errors.