My favorite and most widely used writing tool is the WRITING
PROCESS. I teach it in every English
class I teach. I usually spend a whole
lesson, if not class period on it. This is
the most essential tool a writer can have in their arsenal.
The writing process is… prewriting, drafting, editing,
revising, and publishing.
The writing process breaks the writing down into bite size
pieces that can ease a writer’s anxiety, as well as ensure that they complete
the writing assignment in a timely manner.
It also guarantees that all areas of writing will be covered.
I use this tool regularly whenever I write something. From start to finish, I cover all five
steps. There are times when I combine
some steps, but I cover all of them.
Prewriting is a fun step for me. It has changed since I worked on Master’s
Degree because I now include research in all of the writing I do, instead of
just academic writing. I never
considered doing research for non-fiction writing, but after working on my Capstone,
I realize how important and effective it is.
I’m a big believer in outlining. It’s
where I figure out my story. I probably
go too deep with my outlines, but they work for me. I have had to revisit my outlines on a couple
of occasions, but they are still helpful.
Drafting is a hard step for me. It requires me to focus, think, drain myself,
and turn off my inner editor. It’s the
part of the process that provides a sense of accomplishment for me.
Editing and revising (they should be done separately, but I tend
to combine them) are tedious because they require me to reread what I wrote, dissect
it, and tear it down to make it better. It’s
hard work annihilating my writing in a way that will make it sound and read
better. Yes, annihilating is a harsh
word, but that’s how I feel about editing and revising.
Publishing is enjoyable.
I like having people read my work.
That’s why I write. One of these
days, I’m going to make money from my writing. J
In every profession, there are tools of the trade. These tools are valuable and should be
used. In writing, there are many tools
that can be used. The Writing Process is
a valuable tool to know and use.
