I'm just about finished my masters, and I know how tough large papers can be. I have written lots of big ones recently and my strategy is:
Open a new word document and save it...yes even that makes you feel better.
Start writing down the assigmnent requirements
Start brainstorming ideas and create headings
Do research and then copy/paste research under your headings. Create the bibliography entry at that point so you don't have to do it at the end.
Tackle each section at a time and start re-reading all the research to get a feel for the big picture.
Think, think, think and write stuff. Give yourself a lot of thinking time.
Write an introduction so you can create a contention or argument.
Write each section under your headings in a methodical way with the argument strongly present (I work after kids go to bed).
Always reference as you go, so you don't have to do it at the end.
Send it to someone else to copyedit, i.e. read for sense and repeated words.
Submit and don't think about it again.
I have an HD average and have written 4 assignments with a total of 16k words combined since March, so this method is tried and tested LOL!
What about student support at your uni? I know at ours we can get assistance through the entire essay writing process- including having someone read our finished draft.
Also there are loads of resources on the net about how to write effective essays- I "brainstorm" to begin with and have enjoyed using mindmapping Learning Resources: Mind Mapping
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