What are the 5 steps to essay writing that actually work? I need a system

I'm a very organized person. I like systems. I like checklists. I like knowing what comes next. So when my professor just said "write an essay" without giving any structure, I panicked a little.

I've been researching the "5 steps to essay writing" and I keep finding different versions. Some say: prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, publishing. Others say: analyze prompt, research, outline, write, proofread. Which one is right?

I need a system that actually works. Something I can follow every time so I don't have to reinvent the wheel with every assignment. Does anyone have a tried-and-true 5-step method that gets results?

I'm thinking of making a checklist and laminating it. Yes, I'm that person. Don't judge.

Please share your essay-writing systems! I need structure!

The version I learned in my writing class:

1. Prewriting (brainstorm, freewrite, mind map)
2. Drafting (get it down, don't edit yet)
3. Revising (big picture: structure, argument, evidence)
4. Editing (sentence level: grammar, word choice)
5. Publishing (submit!)

Revising vs editing is the key distinction most people miss!