A basic process to follow when writing an essay Get the question (see Interpreting Assignments and essay questions for more help with this) Think about it Brainstorm/freewrite (see instructions on how to do this later on this page) Research if necessary (see Mapping) Brainstorm/freewrite some more Work out which ideas go together (see Mapping) Work out which ideas best answer the question Choose the order you think you'd like to put those ideas in. Work out the structure you'll use (see Structure and planning) Quickly write the first draft of the body by fleshing out your plan (go to Writing the first draft) Go back and write your introduction and conclusion Leave it alone for awhile Read through (go to How do I rewrite this essay?) Revise (see Editing and rewriting.) Proofread (see Proofreading) Make spelling and grammar corrections (go to Help me with my grammar!!!) Type up a good copy (see Format for official presentation)