As students, a common scenario that you face once you get started with your essay writing assignment is this: you have done your research and have taken down notes and references you want to include in your essay. You have also taken note of the thesis and essay outline you want to complete.

You are all set to write your essay and yet, you do not know where to start or how to start it. And since you want your essay to have a very high mark, you hesitate on writing anything for fear that what you have thought may not be enough to get you to pass.

The solution to scenarios like this is simple: you can choose any part of the essay where you feel confident to write well—may it be the introduction, the body or the conclusion—and write that paragraph you have in mind. Once you start with the parts that you feel more confident about, you will be able to develop a positive momentum and be encouraged enough to continue your essay on the more difficult parts as well.

The secret of an outstanding essay—or any written work—is not the writing but the rewriting process. Once you have written all your notes and ideas, you can now organise them into an order that will make your essay have more impact on your readers. Continue rewriting your draft until you feel satisfied that it is good enough to be handed in. You can also ask your colleagues for feedback – an extra pair of eyes might help track mistakes you have not seen yourself.