The Writing Process

Abraham Lincoln High SchoolEnglish DepartmentMr. Gallegos

Six Steps in the Writing Process

•Prewriting•Writing the First Draft•Revising•Editing and Proofreading•Publishing

Prewriting

• Find an interesting idea to write about.• Begin your subject search with a web, outline, or even free writing.

• Learn as much as you can about your subject.

• Search for dead ends. This is where you realize your topic will not make a good paper.

Writing your First Draft

• Write when your prewriting is fresh in your mind!

• Be sure to follow your outline!• Give your Introductory Paragraph special attention. It sets the tone for your paper.

• Don’t worry about making corrections yet. Just get your ideas down on paper.

• Remember that your first draft is your first look at a developing writing idea.

Revising

• Review your first draft to make sure you understand which parts work and which parts need to be changed.

• Add, cut, reword, or rearrange the ideas in your writing.

• Check your work for missed opportunities.• Make sure your Introductory and Conclusion paragraphs fit your paper.

Editing and Proofreading

• Check for errors in usage, punctuation, capitalization, spelling, and grammar.

• Read your draft aloud and test for voice.• Substitute phrases or words you think don’t fit your paper anymore.

• Ask a reliable editor to check your paper.• Prepare a neat final copy.• Proofread the final draft and check for errors.

Publishing

• Share your finished work with your friends and your teacher.

• Listen carefully to their reactions to your paper.

• Have pride in your work. Make it look professional.

• Have confidence! You are now an author.