Whenever I want to write something, I just start it even without planning or brainstorming the ideas. Usually, I try to finish things very fast and when it applies to writing, there are chances of mistakes. These are factors that I consider as weaknesses as a writer. I should always spare sometime for brainstorming and organizing the ideas. However, I don’t waste much time in planning my writing. I feel that one of my greatest strengths is that I am open to changes, because it helps me to improve weak points in my writing. Another issue in my writing is I think I sound dull and boring. I always want to make my essays more interesting to the reader but I’m not sure how to do that most of the time. Another strength I feel I have is my attention to detail, I feel that I can be very detailed in my writing.
Prewriting is what you do before you write a draft of your document. It includes thinking, taking notes, talking to others, brainstorming, outlining, and gathering information. Drafting occurs when you put your ideas into sentences and paragraphs. Here you concentrate upon explaining and supporting your thesis. In the drafting process you also begin to connect your thesis. Revision is the key to effective documents here you think more about your readers’ needs and expectations. At this stage you also refine your prose, making each sentence as concise and accurate as possible make connections between idea. In the editing process you check for such things as grammar, mechanics, and spelling. The last thing you should do before printing your document is to spell check it.
My first strategy is to develop the right attitude for writing. I should also learn to maintain the right attitude all through this course. Now, I realize that writing involves different stages. We should give attention to these stages such as planning, organizing, drafting, and proof reading of our writing. The second strategy is that I should follow some order whenever I write something. I must understand which order is most beneficial for me and then I should stick on to the order. I believe realizing the correct order and sticking on to it will be very beneficial for me. My third strategy is to make use of all available learning tools. Other than the course textbooks, we have online resources that Penn foster offers us. I can make use of online resources, dictionaries and informative websites to help me in my writing endeavors. I can make use of online referencing websites to help me in referencing. I can also seek the help of college writing center for getting guidance and tips. I think I can use the writing conferences to interact with my instructors.
I found that allowing time between drafting and revising allows my mind enough time to process the information without feeling like I’m rushing through it. Allowing time will also give me time to take a fresh look at the work I have accomplished. I think that looking for consistent problems in my writing would help me throughout this course by correcting the confusing organization and insufficient details. Making and outline of my draft essay will help me evaluate and organize the essay. By using an organizer or outline I can better evaluate my organizational skills. I feel like everything I have learned so far in this course has been helpful and will improve my writing skills.
