The Writing Process

Each writing assignment we complete will follow the same writing process that good writers know and use. There are many reasons why following a writing process will benefit us as we write. I want us to focus on improving our writing more than just the finished piece of writing. You will be surprised how much writing can improve by taking a second, third, fourth or even more look at it. Using the advice given by me or other peers will make your writing amazing! Also, when we use a few tricks that good writers know, the chance for writer's block is reduced so we can get right into our writing. 

So, what is the writing process? It is a 5-Step process that helps writers successfully finish a piece of writing. By following the process, your writing will be more organized, focused and flawless. 

1. Pre-writing: This is the planning phase of the writing process, when you brainstorm, research, gather and outline ideas, often using diagrams for mapping out your thoughts. Audience and purpose should be considered at this point, and for the older students, a working thesis statement needs to be started.
2. Drafting: Create your initial composition by writing down all your ideas in an organized way to convey a particular idea or present an argument. Audience and purpose need to be finalized.
3. Revising: Review, modify, and reorganize your work by rearranging, adding, or deleting content, and by making the tone, style, and content appropriate for the intended audience. The goal of this phase of the writing process is to improve the draft.
4. Editing: At this point in the writing process, writers proofread and correct errors in grammar and mechanics, and edit to improve style and clarity. Having another writer’s feedback in this stage is helpful.
5. Publishing: In this last step of the writing process, the final writing is shared with the group. Sharing can be accomplished in a variety of ways, and with the help of computers, it can even be printed or published online.

A Start-Up File for Writer's Workshop

adapted from time4writing

Writing Process Rationale