1. Break the essay down into smaller, more manageable (and less overwhelming) chunks, ie, (1) research and planning, (2) first draft, (3) proofreading, (4) final draft. It will be a lot easier that way! This is especially important since you expressed that you really aren’t very happy with how it turned out. Could you backtrack a little and make some exciting changes?

2. Make a rule and promise yourself to stick to it: For every 45 minutes you work on your essay, you will give yourself a 15 minute break. If you do this faithfully, you will be done in NO TIME! Keep a clock or timer handy!

3. When you are on a 15-minute break, HAVE FUN!!! You can go outside and enjoy the fresh air and get some exercise, or just veg in front of the TV. You don’t have to feel guilty, because you know you have the situation completely under control.

4. If you get stuck on the computer a lot playing games or IM’ing with your friends, set a time limit (see the 15-minute rule). This is a really big problem for a lot of students.

5. Some people need more movement when they work. You might be able to finish your paper more easily if you are swinging on a swing or riding an exercise bike while scribbling those last 150 words. Even jumping up and stretching every 15 minutes might help you to stay more focused.

6. Certain foods will help you concentrate. They are called “brain foods” for that reason! Brain foods include: salads, raw vegetables, and meat. Things that make you sleepy: simple carbs such as chips, pasta, rice, bread, french fries, and sugary foods. Ice water is a great pick-me-up, and if you add a little lemon or lime juice to it, it’s very zingy!

Best of luck to you! I know you will do FABULOUSLY!

PS..sometimes it helps me to change environments. Write in the other room. I write in the bathtub..Is that a weird over share? Oh well.