2E - How I Write

While reading about, learning about, and observing many different ways to approach writing centers and the tutoring of writing it has become obvious to me that it is important to understand my individual writing process. I am sure that there will be times when I will find it necessary to discuss the writing process with a client in the center, and when that day comes I want to be able to have a thorough understanding of my own process.

Assignments for papers are generally given at least three weeks ahead of the due date. That being said I ponder of the question with a vague idea of what it is that I would like to write about in the back of my mind. When I first read the assignment some idea pops into my mind and it is that idea that remains for several days. Throughout these days the paper is always a nagging source of anxiety where I know I should be focusing more of my time and energy, but am not able, or willing, to sacrifice the time. After several days of passive anxiety I eventually re-read the assignment enough times and re-focus my thoughts thoroughly enough so that I have an idea of a thesis that I think is appropriate. By the time I am confident enough with my thesis and ready to approach my professor with it for discussion and advice it has been about two weeks since I got the assignment and a week before the assignment is do.

Generally speaking I leave the conversation with my professor feeling like my idea is “sufficient” although it could use a little more focus and refining. The last week I have to work on my paper I consistently have my paper at the bottom of my list of things to accomplish for every night because I am focusing on other assignments that are due sooner. Therefore, I typically start my paper the night before it is due. I do not enjoy this about my writing habits and would like to change it, but as of late, that is how my process unfolds. I always have a cup of coffee, a good pen, and my notebook with class notes and a rough outline sketched in it. I finish my paper while on a caffeine buzz and get a few hours of sleep.

I always wish that I could have more time to spend polishing and revising my paper. I would consult the help of other writers, but seldom have the time to. I do not know if I have ever turned in a paper in college where I have been completely satisfied with what I have written. While turning my paper in to my professor I usually say something like this to myself: It is what it is and that is good enough for now. Throughout this year I would like to follow a more lengthy process where I am able to consult the opinions of other writers and able to give myself the amount of time I need in order to construct a satisfying paper.