Last Minute Essay Writing Survival Tips
Alright, you probably put off your essay longer than you should have. We’ve all been there. The important thing is not to panic because you’re not going to be able to think clearly if you do. Also, it’s time to focus on what really matters so that you can be as efficient as possible. Let’s do this.
Where to Start
For starters, you need to relax. Take a few deep breaths. Grab some coffee or tea, and use the restroom if you need to. Clear off your workspace, and don’t pay attention to any distractions. Close out of your email and avoid (or even block) websites you’ll be tempted to read or watch. It’s time to focus. If your room at home is not a place you can work quietly and stay focused, then maybe your favorite nook at the school library is the way to go. And since most university libraries close at midnight (which is the typical hour most papers are due), it’s extra incentive to get finished ASAP.
Write an Outline
If you don’t have an outline, stop and write one immediately. Use a bullet point list to decide what you will write about at the beginning, middle, and end. Mention points you want to touch on in sequence so that you have good transitions and a well thought out essay. Even if you know little about the topic, you can find what you need easier because you know the main points that you want to discuss. Don’t correct yourself as you write. You can go over what you have written after you are finished. Stopping in the middle of your outline or essay to read what you have written so far interrupts your train of thought and slows you down.
Use a Thesis You Can Defend
It’s a good idea to look up what you need to understand more about here and there, but it’s not necessary to write an entire essay on a subject that you know nothing about. You can use your own experience and knowledge in your essay. This will help you to write quicker. Additionally, including quotes, statistics and outside information gives credibility to what you have written.
Stop Cramming
Stress is not good for you. If you’re burning the wick at both ends, it’s time to slow down. Stress robs you of so much, and it causes intense headaches. Don’t rely on aspirin-related products or energy drinks. Sometimes over the counter medicine like aspirin and ibuprofen can have adverse effects after constant use. It is possible to treat chronic pain with natural alternatives, but you need to take time to rest. Use time management skills to get your work done on time and avoid making eleventh-hour essays a habit.
Overall, it’s best to avoid writing last minute essays. Instead, practice good time management skills and habits, in general. If you take the time to prepare for things, you’ll have a much better life.
