Set a deadline by which you must complete your rough draft, leaving time for several rewrites.
Brainstorm by creating a mind map that helps to clarify your ideas, assumptions and arguments.
Establish your position, analyze opposing views and consider how you will provide evidence and support your argument.
Create an outline that ensures your essay has structure and flows coherently from one part to the next.
Write as quickly as possible, without worrying about spelling or grammar errors. Turn your thoughts and ideas into words, avoiding the urge to edit yourself.
Develop at least a five-paragraph skeleton essay that captures the essence of your argument without getting bogged down by facts or specific details. After you have the skeleton essay down, you can go back to verify your facts and refine the details.
Set aside your rough draft for a day or two, then re-read it to ensure that your essay makes sense, is persuasive and flows logically throughout. If necessary, re-write it.
Give your essay to a teacher or trusted friend, and ask him or her to read it and critique your argument. If your proofreader is unconvinced by the argument you're trying to make, double-check your facts, find better supporting evidence and revise your essay.
Conclude your rough draft by reemphasizing your argument and leave your reader with a convincing closing statement.