This document provides a 4-step process for drafting an essay: 1) Preparing to write using brainstorming techniques like mind maps, lists, and freewriting. 2) Creating an outline with a solid thesis statement and formal or informal outline. 3) Writing a first draft following the outline without stopping to correct. 4) Revising the draft through major revisions of organization, minor revisions at the paragraph level, editing for grammar/mechanics, and proofreading for final details. Tips are given to shorten rather than lengthen drafts and to take time and stay organized during the writing process.

1. ENG 101 – QVCC Fall 2010 Drafting your essay

2. Step One: Preparing to write Brainstorm Mind maps Sketches scribbles List Lists of related topics, ideas, words, etc. Scrapbooking/Journal Collect related items or write about related topics Freewrite Timed writing on what you already know/think about our topic

3. Mindmaps Photo Courtesy of Hello, Creative Studies

4. Formal Mindmaps Photo Courtesy of mymindmaps.net

5. Step Two: Outline Thesis Do not move on until this is solid Outline Formal or informal Remember this may change; that’s okay! Can be as detailed as you like or just cover basic points

6. Step Three: First Draft Follow your outline Don’t stop to correct yourself – just write

7. Step Four: Revise Major Revision Organization, section arrangement, essay as a whole Minor Revision Focus on passages/paragraphs Editing Grammar, spelling, mechanics, punctuation Proofreading Details and final appearance Spelling, typographical errors, format

8. Tips for writing Easier to shorten than to lengthen No more than 2 drafts Take your time Stay organized