Think of the questions posed in the assignment while you are reading
and researching.
Determine
- how the author's views fit into the questions
- what you think of the author's argument
- your position in the argument
Focus on logical argument and avoid emotion/emotional reactions or recognize those you
have so that you may use them wisely.
Start writing!
- Start as close as possible to your reading/research
- "Jump in"; don't be afraid to start writing
- Jot down the succession of your thoughts
- Do not concerned yourself with grammar or spelling
When your first draft draft is finished:
- Put it away!
- Don't think about it
Review your notes and original material after some time has past.
Does your argument still "make sense"? Ask yourself:
- "Will my argument convince an objective reader?"
- "Will this paper ask someone to re-consider their position"?
Take up your paper again:
- Revise and edit the content to strengthen your argument
- Note where you use emotion to see that it doesn't interfere with the logic
- Correct for spelling and grammar
- Ask a friend to read it, and make suggestions for revision
Ask them if they are convinced