How to write an essay in 2 hours and still get an A?

[MaryGoo]

I work 30 hours a week and go to school full-time. By the time I get to my essay, I have maybe two hours before I collapse from exhaustion. My friends say "start earlier" but I literally cannot. Every hour is already filled.

I need a strategy. Not motivation, not "just plan ahead." Actual steps for when you have two hours and a deadline.

What's the fastest way to get a decent grade? Do I outline first? Write the conclusion first? Skip the fancy introduction and come back? I've heard different things but I need a system that actually works for speed.

Please help a tired working student.

 

[DerekLae]

Mary, two hours is tight but doable. Here's my breakdown:

• First 20 min: understand the prompt, brainstorm, write a thesis
• Next 10 min: quick outline (3 main points, evidence for each)
• Next 60 min: write body paragraphs (20 min each)
• Next 20 min: write intro and conclusion
• Last 10 min: proofread (read aloud if you can)

Don't stop to edit while writing. Just write. Editing is for the last 10 minutes. Good luck!