While planning for what goes in the essay is the third step of the writing process, the entire process from step one till the end has to be planned. Students often make the mistake of starting to write their essays at the last minute, which leaves them with no time to pay attention to minute details or to dig other sources for better information. Customized writing professionals suggest, the ideal time that should be allotted to writing an essay is four weeks.
The first week should be utilized to understand the topic and figure out the relevant sources of information. So look through your textbooks, search the library or dig the internet for any relevant facts that could be used in your essay.
Once you have the sources, spend time in reading them and picking out only what you need, organizing the data and figuring out what all you will need to support your case. That is what will consume the second week of your essay writing process.
The third week should be spent making summaries and developing firm ideas as to how you would be supporting your case in answer to the topic.
The fourth week is for writing the introduction, conclusion and reference lists, which should be completed in the beginning of the week, so that you have ample time for spell checks, grammar, format specifications and a review.
Planning your essay is of utmost importance, especially when the matter is about your career. Give your essay due importance and respect and you will be rewarded for your hard work. Remember, the opportunity might not strike twice, so make full use of it at once and put in your best. You are sure to win and come out in flying colors.