The Writing Process

What is a writing process, and how can you make yours work for you?

Has anyone ever told you that writing is a talent that you either have or you don’t? We don’t mean to be blunt, but they’re wrong. Anyone can be a good writer with practice and a process. 

The idea of the author who sits alone with beautiful words pouring onto a page is a myth 99% of the time. 

All writers have processes they use. Writing processes are a series of events that happen before, during, and after you begin a writing project. Writing processes are unique to the writer, and can even evolve or change as time goes on. There’s no one or “right” way to have a writing process. 

So, how can you find a process that works for you? A process that allows you to write what you already know you can (and maybe even some things you didn’t know you could)?

Here are some helpful links, videos, and tips to get you started. 

The Writing Center Can Help You with Your Writing Process

If you feel anxious before you begin writing, it’s likely anxiety has become a part of your writing process. But your writing process doesn’t have to include anxiety. Excitement or calmness can also be a part of your writing process. 

If you feel like you can’t start writing until the night before it’s due, it’s likely procrastination has become a part of your writing process. But, procrastination doesn’t have to be a part of your writing process. Preparation and starting your project ahead can be a part of your writing process, too. 

Want to talk to one of our consultants about writing processes and see if there’s a way to make your process work for you?

Helpful Links on the Writing Process

Helpful Documents on Writing Processes

The Writing Center staff has created a web page of helpful resources. It covers everything from advice for young writers to proofreading for common errors. 

 

How to Use Microsoft Word For Sentence Editing

This is a web page with a downloadable resource that walks you through how to turn an essay into a list of sentences for editing. 

 

Why Visit Your Campus Writing Center?

The Writing Center can become a part of your writing process and can help you establish writing habits that work for you… like starting your assignment early! Learn more about why you should schedule an appointment. 

 

Group Writing Best Practices

Writing a group assignment may have you wondering, “Where do we even start?” You can start here to explore some best practices when group writing. And yes, the Writing Center can help you with group assignments!