Stages of the Writing Process

Overview

The writing process consists of four main stages:

1. Prewriting
2. Writing (Drafting)
3. Revising
4. Editing

1. Prewriting

Key Considerations

• Choose or Narrow Your Topic

  • Ask:
    • Does it interest me?
    • Do I have something to say about it?
    • Is the topic specific?

• Determine Your Audience

  • Consider:
    • Who are my readers?
    • What do they know about my topic?
    • What do they need to know?
    • How do they feel about my topic?

• Define Your Purpose

  • Understand the reason for writing:
    • Expressive
    • Informative
    • Persuasive

• Establish Tone

  • Tone is the mood/attitude in writing.

• Explore Your Topic

  • Techniques include:
    • Freewriting
    • Brainstorming
    • Listing
    • Clustering/Mapping
    • Questioning
    • Discussing/Outlining

• Make a Plan

  • Create a roadmap:
    • Review ideas from prewriting
    • Develop a thesis statement
    • Structure your essay

2. Writing (Drafting)

Drafting Essentials

• Create your essay by composing a draft.
• A draft is the first complete version of your ideas.

Key Components of a Draft

• Fully developed introduction and conclusion
• Fully developed body paragraphs including:
  • Topic sentences
  • Supporting examples and details
• Follow standard structures and use complete sentences.

Writing the Introduction

• Minimum of 4-6 sentences.
• State what readers can expect.
• Move from general to specific with the thesis at the end.
• Capture the reader's attention.

3. Revising

Revising Process

• Correct problems in the draft.
• Focus on:
  • Clarity
  • Strength
  • Persuasiveness

Revision Strategies

• Ensure unity, detail, and coherence:
  • Unity: Does everything relate to the main point?
  • Detail and Support: Each point should have supporting details.
  • Coherence: Ensure all points connect well with transitions.

Revision Tips

• Take a break before revising.
• Read the draft out loud to catch errors.
• Seek feedback from peers.

4. Editing

Editing Essentials

• Focus on:
  • Word choice
  • Usage
  • Punctuation

Editing Strategies

• Work with printed copies, double-spaced for corrections.
• Review backwards to catch errors.
• Utilize spell check and grammar check.
• Read the essay out loud for errors.
• Get feedback from peers for additional insights.

Conclusion

The four stages of the writing process are:

1. Prewriting
2. Writing
3. Revising
4. Editing

These stages are essential for effective writing.