Facebook Pixel Online Writing Lab | Western Kentucky University

Online Writing Lab


The Writing Process

Effective Writing Habits

Effective writing habits set the stage for success!  It's true that some people are more comfortable writing, but good writing habits appeal to our natural senses, as long as we keep an open-mind.

Here are a few things you can do to stay on the right track, and avoid pitfalls:

  • Do your homework! Research your ideas, both formally and informally, and think critically! One of the most important things we can do as writers (and individuals) is sharpen our critical thinking skills. Question yourself, your opinions, beliefs, and your sources, One technique that I love to use when I'm struggling is "5 Whys." This technique is normally used in industry for root-cause analysis, but it's also an amazing tool to expand writing, deepen analysis and critical thought. It can also help you get over the hump when you don't really know what to say or how to expand on a particular idea or thought, which happens to all of us! Best of all, it's simple! In fact, it's likely something you're already doing. Begin with your basic statement/argument, then ask yourself the simple question of "why" you have that opinion (what is it based on). Once you answer the first "why," you ask "why" to your answer, and so on.
  • Keep the writing process separate from the editing process: Write freely, enjoy! It's okay if your first draft is unconnected, and even a bit random. It's a draft! No one will see it, except you. Writing a draft without worrying about flow, structure, spelling, and punctuation, allows you to discover your main theme and explore possibilities without a lot of pressure. It also gets you in "writing mode." Remember, quality comes later! 
  • Writing is recursive (and that's how it should be): Writing does not happen in a linear fashion. The process involves researching, drafting, editing, revising, editing, perhaps more research or collaboration, and more revising before you reach your final destination. Don't get discouraged or trapped in the mindset that it should be a linear, well-defined process. While the nuts and bolts of the writing process ring true for each of us, the details differ, the steps are repeated in no particular order ... and that is true for even the best writer! 
  • Practice: If writing is not one of your favorite things to do, you likely avoid it, but as with anything, practice makes perfect! If you really want to improve your writing skills, you should exercise them daily. Journal, write in small bursts, read the work of others through a different lens. Rather than reading simply for enjoyment or to learn specific information, read with a focus on their writing style, use of metaphors, research, personal stories, flow, etc. 

Some of the links on this page may require additional software to view.

 Last Modified 3/23/18