Make a realistic assessment of how you can be more efficient.
It is generally easier to revise than generate. So start writing early in the process and plan to revise and perfect the prose, bibliography, citations, etc. later.
Understand the parameters around the type and amount of research materials required. Know when to stop gathering material and focus on writing.
Use the SQ4R method to skim quickly and get the main points out of your reading. (See the Effective Reading Strategies module.)
If you’re going to take notes, use them as a form of pre-writing that you can later cut and paste directly into your paper. This means that you will write your notes in your own words as you think you would like them to appear in the paper. (See the Gathering & Noting Ideas module.)
Don’t spend time worrying about perfect introductions and segues; if you planned properly, you will have time later on to reflect and correct. (See the Revising Your Arguments module.)