The foremost step in getting started is the formulation of a rough draft for the essay. The rough draft refers to the essay outline and is an outcome of thoughtful planning. The draft usually includes notes about the topic of concern including potential questions that will be answered through the essay. The draft acts as the skeleton of the essay. It demarcates the different sequences through which the writing will flow. The draft outlines the different parts of the essay beginning from the introductory paragraph to the conclusion.

Once the draft has been formulated the next step includes definition of the subject and the topic. While the subject defines the broad scope of argument, the topic is specific in explaining what exactly the essay will be talking about. The writer needs to be very clear in distinguishing the two. The choice of subject helps in identification of the secondary data sources for the literature review, while the topic illustrates the argument based upon the secondary research. The topic needs to define the outline earlier discussed in the rough draft. It will allow grouping of thoughts so that they can be assembled in the body. The grouping allows ideas to be developed into narratives that are presented in different paragraphs.

After laying the base for the writing, the process of execution is initiated. The grouped ideas form a single point each. These points should be viewed in totality to help in development of a thesis statement. This forms the main argument that supports the stance of the topic that is chosen for the essay writing. The thesis statement has multiple roles: fore mostly it helps the reader to understand the subject and consequently the topic of the essay. Secondly it gives a brief overview of the ideas that will be highlighted during the course of the essay reading. Thirdly the statement presents a how the different ideas are inter linked and are pertinent to the topic. And lastly the thesis statement presents the overall idea of the essay, in the case where opinions are being elicited.

At all times the writer needs to be aware of his thesis statement and the way it is swinging in the case when an argument needs to presented from a viewpoint. It is a good idea to write the statement at the top of the page and then begin on arranging ideas according to the statement. Getting started with an essay is about focus. The thesis statement does just that. It limits the writers from wandering wild in all directions and gives a single minded approach to the topic. Therefore, the awareness of the thesis statement is crucial to the development of the essay.

Once the basics are covered the writer needs to assess the tone and presentation of the essay. Though these facts may seem minor to the larger skeleton of the essay they play a pivotal role in setting the mood of the essay. Once all these aspects have been identified, you are ready to begin writing.