The Writing/ Composition Process

I imagine the ideal writing/composing process to be a series of steps that involve brainstorming, critical thinking, drafting, editing, and revising towards a final product. When I am first given an assignment, my first step is to spend some time brainstorming potential topics/ideas that could work for the given assignment. This is usually the hardest part for me because I do not consider myself to be that creative. Once I have an idea in mind, the rest of the process goes a lot smoother. I will usually begin drafting my work, editing, and revising until I am satisfied with the final product. I consider this process to be ‘ideal’ because it gives me a place to begin where I can gather and organize my ideas before I begin the actual essay or writing assignemnt. The idea of brainstorming first before I delve into an essay is less daunting and makes the work more manageable. This is why it is important for me to begin a writing assignemnt well before the due date because it is hard for me to come up with creative and interesting ideas on the spot. The other reason why I find my writing process ‘ideal’ is because I like following a series of steps to accomplish my goals. Having steps is almost like having a map or guide, which is very helpful in any assignemnt.

When I picture a professional writer, I expect them to write multiple drafts and to revise their work. According to Reader’s Digest, the 5-Step Writing Process consists of Prewriting, Writing, Revision, Editing, and Publishing. Even though this process seems concrete, a lot of professional writers follow their own writing plans. I assume this is because writing can be very personal, and no one does it the exact same way. I expect that these professional writers confer with other professional writers and have them proofread each other’s writing to make sure that there are no mistakes or holes in their arguments.