This chapter asks you to focus on several techniques for successful writing. Do you find it easy to compose a thesis statement? Are you able to stay focused on your paper’s argument throughout the entire paper? Do you ever change your thesis statement half way through your paper? Why? Do you write your first draft by freewriting or by following an outline? In your paper, are your main points clear and logical? Perhaps you are better at one thing than another; you might have excellent grammar skills while your logic is not always clear. What is your writing strength? Your ability to successfully write reflects your communication skills and may lead to success in college and beyond.

In the box below, identify briefly what your writing technique is, based on how you prepare, organize, work through, evaluate, and reflect on your papers. Explain the method you find most successful in your writing skills. Other students may profit from your knowledge and experience, or you may get some helpful ideas from other students as well.