Your First Draft

Last modified by Steve Custer 19 October 2006

First-Draft Hints

Time to get your ideas down on paper.  There are a couple of tricks you may find helpful.  First, consider writing the introduction last. Simply put the position statement in the introduction position and write the body of the paper, and then the conclusion, and finally the introduction.   The reason for this is that introductions are at the root of great procrastination.  You may find the introduction easier to write after you have developed the arguments required to support your position.

Second, write down your position statement and hang it up next to your computer or writing pad.  When you find yourself staring into space, ask, "Am I really writing about the position I planned?"  If not is the position the right one?  (If not change it.)

Third, don't get hung up on the outline.  Form a general outline and write.  When you are done write the outline you used and modify the outline and the paragraph order to improve the flow.   The outline will not be static.  You might look at the outline section before writing your paper for additional perspective about outlines.

Fourth, be sure you support your position and your paragraphs with data as well as references.

Assignment:

  1. Read the First-Draft Hints section above regarding your first draft.
  2. We will not meet today in class.  You are writing.  Your instructor will be in  his office and will answer questions.
  3. Write your first draft.  (The position statement must be bolded; see grading criteria below for guidance on expectations.)
  4. Turn your first draft in a two pocket folder outside your instructors office by 17:00 h (5:00 PM).


Time Commitment:

4-6 hours writing paper; 1 hour writing outline
 

Grading

    10% for the first draft

Grading Criteria for First Draft

10% for the first draft
    Existence
    Quality including references cited in correct format, bolded position, citations in correct format, figures and tables in correct format, good topic sentences, good concluding sentences, and data used to support position.