Chapter 2 focuses on writing as a multi-stage, recursive, fluid process. What is your writing process? Do you use the same process for every writing task? What do you do that others might not do?
I don't use the same process for every writing task, but for my academic writing (dissertation, articles) I find the white page on the computer screen stifling. If I open a Word document I cannot talk myself into starting to write. I like spreading out notebook pages, printed notes, handwritten paragraphs, etc and then starting from this pile. Usually, my process starts with research and notes (either hand-scribbled or typed) and I free write an spatial idea map to organize the general sections/ideas I think the piece will address. I use this to define my question/argument and then start to fill in specific quotes/sources that I can use in each of the parts. I then use a new sheet of paper to make a first outline and then write my first draft from this (sometimes I need to handwrite a first-draft, sometimes I type them). I do some editing as I as write this draft, but my primary goal is to get it down as quickly as possible. Then I re-draft (type if the first is handwritten, print it out if it's typed and cut/rearrange/edit/flesh out in pen), and this is where I make global revisions or refocus the essay if I realize it's not about what I first thought it would be. Often the second draft little resembles the first. I'll usually revise/edit this draft substantially and then do a final polishing read through. Then I have someone read it and based on what the comments are, I go back through the revision and editing process until I'm sick of looking at it.
I don't use the same process for every writing task, but for my academic writing (dissertation, articles) I find the white page on the computer screen stifling. If I open a Word document I cannot talk myself into starting to write. I like spreading out notebook pages, printed notes, handwritten paragraphs, etc and then starting from this pile. Usually, my process starts with research and notes (either hand-scribbled or typed) and I free write an spatial idea map to organize the general sections/ideas I think the piece will address. I use this to define my question/argument and then start to fill in specific quotes/sources that I can use in each of the parts. I then use a new sheet of paper to make a first outline and then write my first draft from this (sometimes I need to handwrite a first-draft, sometimes I type them). I do some editing as I as write this draft, but my primary goal is to get it down as quickly as possible. Then I re-draft (type if the first is handwritten, print it out if it's typed and cut/rearrange/edit/flesh out in pen), and this is where I make global revisions or refocus the essay if I realize it's not about what I first thought it would be. Often the second draft little resembles the first. I'll usually revise/edit this draft substantially and then do a final polishing read through. Then I have someone read it and based on what the comments are, I go back through the revision and editing process until I'm sick of looking at it.
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