Overview

We might not think much about our process for creating text, but each of us has cultivated our own methods since we could hold a crayon. Writing is steeped in so much of what we do, especially our digital world of social media, instant messaging, email, and texting.

Our ability to share what we write to anyone with an Internet connection and computer device is quite remarkable.  Even though it might not seem like writing, each of the little “masterpieces” we create and then share with the click of a Send or Publish button celebrates how far we’ve come from the days of publishing with the printing press.

Unfortunately, many students would admit they do not enjoy academic writing—and some would even say they hate it! But you have many more college papers left to write, and likely will continue writing beyond college and into the workplace. There are strategies that can help you improve your academic writing skills and this module will explore the processes proficient writers use to develop academic writing. You may even find some joy in it!

Learning Objectives

After successfully completing this module, you should be able to:

  1. Apply prewriting strategies for identifying ideas for writing.
  2. Utilize drafting for organizing and developing ideas more fully.
  3. Improve summary writing using feedback.