University of Chicago's Writing Program: Top-Down Approach to Writing

Introduction to the Writing Program

• Unique 'top-down' approach vs. common 'bottom-up' approach at other universities.
• Most universities focus on freshman writing courses; UChicago focuses on helping faculty, graduate students, and other high-level academics.
• The program helps faculty members who struggle with writing despite being experts in their fields.

Misconceptions About Writing

• Writing is seen globally as a basic skill learned early in education.
• UChicago's program challenges the notion that needing help with writing is remedial.
• The program is not about learning or adhering to rules but about focusing on readers.

Expert Writers vs. Basic Writers

• Expert writers are those writing about their field of expertise, not beginners learning a new topic.
• Experts often use writing to think rather than just to communicate.
• This creates distinct challenges because experts usually need to use writing to develop complex ideas.

Understanding the Reader

• Faculty and advanced writers often write in ways that confuse readers, leading to slow reading, misunderstanding, and ultimately stopping.
• The program emphasizes understanding and engaging the reader rather than adhering to strict writing rules.
• Professional writing aims to change readers' ideas, not just convey the writer’s thoughts.

Moving Beyond Academic Training

• Traditional academic training emphasizes explaining and adhering to rules, which can be counterproductive at higher levels of writing.
• Examples provided to show how expert writing should focus on creating value, addressing inconsistencies and presenting important analyses.

Practical Advice for Expert Writers

• Emphasize problem construction and understanding your readers' needs and expectations.
• Transition words and phrases like 'but,' 'however,' 'nonetheless' create instability which engages the reader.
• Writing should focus on creating value—establishing significance and addressing problems relevant to the community of readers.

Overcoming Writing Challenges

• Understanding that value lies in the perception of the readers, not just in the originality or clarity of the writing.
• Encouraging writers to challenge existing notions and create valuable contributions to their fields.
• Using community language and coding to enhance the value perceived by the readers.

Conclusion and Invitation for Help

• The importance of focusing on reader engagement and problem construction over formal writing rules.
• My office is open to anyone who needs help with writing, and I encourage you to reach out to discuss your writing challenges.