When the essay assignment is handed out, students approach the starting line. The deadline is the finish line. While some students are busy crossing the finish line, other students are stuck halfway. Some of them are unsure of how to take notes. Others are stuck trying to figure out how to turn an outline into a draft. Then, there are those fighting for the motivation to get things started.

Topics we will cover in class:

- Choosing interesting topics that meet the essay requirement (brainstorming techniques)
- Tips for getting motivated (adding interest, novelty, and challenge)
- Review the basic parts of an essay
- How to read/interpret essay assignments to make sure you don't miss anything
- Setting deadlines
- How to break down each essay part to an easy to-do list

Students will receive a 19-page essay planner that includes:
- Tips discussed in class for task initiation
- Form to organize essay assignments
- In-depth, broken down assignment checklist
- Word association brainstorming worksheet
- Cluster mapping brainstorming worksheet
- Outline templates
- Revision and editing checklist
- And more...