. Purpose/Main Idea
Before you can start writing, you need to have an idea to write about. If you haven't been assigned an idea, it's easier than you might think to come up with one of your own.
Your best essays will be about the things that light your fire. What do you feel passionate about? What topics do you find yourself arguing for or against? Choose the side of the topic you are "for" rather than "against," and your essay will be stronger.
Do you love gardening? sports? photography? volunteering? Are you an advocate for children? domestic peace? the hungry or homeless? These are clues to your best essays.
Put your idea into a single sentence. This is your thesis statement, your main idea.
We have some ideas to get you started: Writing Ideas
Check out Grace Fleming's How to Choose an Essay Topic.