Friday, January 21, 2011

MY writing process

When I write I typically start thinking up ideas immediately after a prompt is introduced. I jot down the ideas in my head that seem relevant and/or interesting. I then just sit and try to start writing whatever comes to mind. Usually I end up with a paragraph that has no end, sentences here and there, and lots of things scratched out. In fact, most of this just becomes trash and I don't even use it in my papers.
I suppose that is my way of brainstorming. Some people like outlines and some like to use diagrams and all that fancy stuff, but I find that using organization methods like that make me feel trapped. I feel writing should be an adaptable process, one that can change often. Therefore, I don't like using methods that feel limiting and structured.
After my "brainstorming" routine, I then really start to think about what it is I am suppossed to be doing (who my audience is, what their expectations are, what kind of paper is it, etc.) and I go back and see what I've done thus far. If it is relevant, I consider keeping it, if it isn't I pitch it. Once I feel I have a good grasp on what my obligations are, I continue to work from there. Just writing and writing. At some point I go back and reread. I take notes about what I have written in certain spots (about it's content, grammer, relevance, maybe it would fit better somewhere else, etc.). Then, I again go over my obligations and do my best to make sure I have met them (because I have been known to stray). This is when I start to type up everything and that is when things change the most. I start thinking up new ideas and what not and I incorporate them and get rid of other things.
Finally, I let someone else read what I've written and provide input. Of course, this stage usually leads to more revision.

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