1. Select a Topic
Pick something you can handle well within your time and space limitations. Don't pick anything so broad you can't say anything significant, or so narrow that there is nothing much to say. Try picking one aspect of a broad topic in which you're interested.
Suggestion: If you have trouble thinking of a topic, reach out to your professor or take a look at this guide on developing topics. This is also a great time to schedule an appointment to brainstorm topics with a writing tutor at Seabrook Writing Center.