Part 1: Situation and Analysis

The process of preparing to write is as important as the drafting process itself; in many cases, it’s more important. Yet this is the process that most of us will skip when in a rush, preferring to dive directly into the writing part of any given writing assignment.

Here, through a few excellent readings, we’ll look at the value of starting early; of considering a college writing assignment thoroughly to avoid the misunderstandings that lead to costly rewrites and failing grades; and of considering your audience and final purpose before pen (or keyboard) connects to paper.

Our first section on pre-writing also serves as a review of active reading, the most critical skill for college (and daily life) survival that we teach.