Prepare an outline for a five-paragraph essay. Write headings on five separate pieces of paper, including "Introduction," "Body Paragraph 1," "Body Paragraph 2," "Body Paragraph 3," and "Conclusion."
Fill in the details of the outline. Write one to three sentences summarizing the main ideas of your essay on your "Introduction" page. Write one or more concrete supporting facts in each of your "Body Paragraph" pages. Summarize the main idea on your "Conclusion" page. Make note of sources as you write.
Type your first draft. Do not worry about editing or structure yet. Write freely.
Read through the entire first draft to make sure it makes sense and has good flow. Ask yourself whether the main idea conveyed in your introductory paragraph is articulated in your body paragraphs. Ask yourself if the main idea is well summarized in the conclusion.
Edit out unnecessary words and sentences that do nothing to support the main idea. Give your second draft paper to a peer or to an adult to review. Edit again as necessary.
Create a "References" page in accordance with your teacher's guidelines if you used outside sources to support the information in your body paragraphs.
Set the font to 12-point Times New Roman. Double-space the font. Set one-inch margins around the text. Leave it a standard black color. Title your essay and center the title at the top of the page. Insert page numbers on the right hand side.