Assessment of My Writing Process

Writing requires a step by step process to construct an essay or paper, however, everyone has their own unique writing procedure. As for me, I write in my quiet room either on my desk or for the most part, in my bed where I find comfort and bigger space to move around. I usually start by having all the materials I need next to me such as books, notes, sources, etc. I read the instructions and the requirements that was given to me and make sure that I get the formatting correct. I like to clear my mind before I start to write by being completely away from any distractions so that ideas will flow through my mind.

If I have to choose a topic, I assure that it is something I can relate to or interests me. Also, I choose a topic that motivates me throughout, and I know I am putting my time and effort to something that excites me. However, if I was given an unfamiliar topic, for instance about Mozart, or the Civil Rights Movement of the twentieth century, I would familiarize myself with the topic. I like to go back through my notes, skim my books, do research and find reliable sources online to broaden my knowledge about the topic that was given. I sometimes make an outline about what I am going to write in my introduction, body, and conclusion; sometimes I just do it all in my head about how I want all my information to lay out.

The most difficult process for me is simply how I begin my essay. I think it is a crucial step in writing process because this is where I engage readers and grab their attention. I sit in front of my laptop for hours trying to gather my thoughts and when ideas comes to mind I immediately type them out. I start by brainstorming of what I already know and that gives me basic understanding about the topic before I begin to dig into my research. For the most part, it takes me a considerable amount of time to think about what to write. There are times where I cannot get my words out and I get so frustrated that I need to stop or else my writing will go into a different direction than I want it to be. When that happens I take a quick break, sometimes it can be longer and forget that I’m writing a paper. I try to take my mind off of it for a minute and let myself do something else; maybe grab some food, stretch, or go to my social medias. Once the desire to write takes over the frustration, I am ready to start again with a clear mind and that’s where ideas start to come once more.

After reading Composing Behaviors of One- and Multi-Drafts Writers by Muriel Harris, it is difficult for me to tell if I am one- or multi-draft writer. I think it depends on what I am writing about. If I am doing a big assignment, perhaps a research paper then I am probably not ready to write until I have a focus and organization in mind. I need to sit down for hours and mentally plan what I am going to write. There are other times where I need to re-read something and spend my time choosing a topic, or choosing the right appropriate word. By taking this Writing Research Papers course, I hope to find whether I am one- or multi-draft writer.

One metaphor I would use for my writing process is a spontaneous road trip. At first, I may not know where I am going or how long it will take me to get somewhere. As I mentioned before, I always have a hard time starting a paper and unsure of the time it will take me to finish, however, I always find my ways. Once I hit the road, it is scary and exciting at the same time. Throughout the journey, I enjoy the moments of this road trip. It is an opportunity to learn and explore new places. It also helps me broadens my thoughts and allows my mind to wander.