I came across this really cool prompt sheet from Dickie Bush. Really useful to those who struggle to write essays:

Write this headline as an Atomic Essay: {Headline} Atomic Essays are short essays 250 words or less. Here are a few guidelines:

1. Headline as H1
2. The first sentence of the essay must be short, to the point, and clearly tell the reader the “strong opinion” of the essay.
3. In 1 sentence, describe the problem and why it needs solving
4. The essay must be structured in a list of 3-7 Main Ideas. Use H2.
5. In 3-5 sentences, describe each Main Idea using 1 of the following methods. Mix it up. Avoid using the same one for each Main Point.
   • Reasons why this main idea is important
   • Mistakes people make when trying to implement this main idea
   • Tips to implement this main idea
   • Examples to follow for this main idea
   • Stats that prove this main idea
   • Steps to take to accomplish the main idea.
6. Do not use flowery language or vague examples. Be as specific as possible.
   Avoid labeling what you are talking about.