What is an important first step in essay writing?

Reading the question carefully and planning main ideas is vital in essay writing because it forms the foundation of a successful piece. Understanding the question ensures that the writer addresses the prompt accurately and remains focused throughout the essay. Planning main ideas helps organize thoughts logically, guiding the writing process and ensuring that each point supports the overall thesis or argument. This preparation stage can streamline the writing process, making it easier to create a coherent and persuasive essay. By having a clear roadmap of what to discuss and how to structure the argument, the writer can provide a more compelling response that resonates with the audience.