Choose your topic and thesis (main argument). Try to choose one that is interesting to you and provides a good opportunity for analysis (not too general or too specific).
Research the topic. Get familiar with the common arguments and counter-arguments concerning your topic. Find reputable sources for all data that you will be quoting. Use a combination of online and scholarly sources found in your school's library or data collection. You also incorporate some current events relating to the topic in your paper so that it is well-rounded.
Write an outline. This can be a simple list containing background information, your thesis, possible counter-arguments to your position and your conclusion. Your outline is the foundation of your paper, so spend as much time on it as you need to in order to perfect the flow of the essay.
Write a rough draft. The OWL writing resource of Purdue University recommends this simple five-paragraph essay format: an introductory paragraph that presents your thesis, three paragraphs that give supporting evidence for your thesis and address possible counter-arguments against it, and a conclusion paragraph that restates your thesis in terms of the evidence you have just presented.
Proofread your rough draft and correct any logical flaws. Always run a spell check on your computer and have a friend or professor read it over for any errors they might spot.
Check that all sources are accurately quoted and correctly cited. Then, rewrite your paper and proofread again.
Check that all formatting is correct (margins, headings, footers, etc.). This must be done before submitting a final version.