Prewriting Techniques

Prewriting Definition

• Prewriting is the initial step in the writing process, preceding the first draft.
• It involves gathering initial thoughts in response to a writing prompt or trigger.
• It uses various methods to generate ideas, from brainstorming to looping.

Purpose of Prewriting

• Prewriting prepares writers for drafting by helping to gather and refine thoughts.
• It helps writers understand the writing prompt and what is required of them.
• Writers can narrow down ideas and establish a clear direction for their piece.
• It is more productive to establish direction in advance

Prewriting Techniques

• Techniques includes brainstorming, freewriting, list-making, mapping, and looping.
• These methods help writers develop ideas and determine the best content for their writing.

Brainstorming

• Brainstorming involves jotting down thoughts and ideas related to a core concept.
• All relevant ideas are noted without concern for organization.
• Webs or visual aids can help writers develop ideas for drafting.
• Writers generate ideas in response to a prompt to use in future drafts

Freewriting

• Freewriting allows writers to write without structure or specific intent.
• Ideas are recorded in a stream-of-consciousness manner, without regard for grammar or organization.
• Ideas can be directly transposed or inform the piece without being specifically quoted.

List-Making

• List-making involves jotting down thoughts stimulated by a prompt or idea.
• Ideas are listed sequentially in response to the original stimulus.

Mapping

• Mapping helps writers develop a series of ideas to help plot the flow between ideas.
• Writers can plan the movement of the piece from idea to idea.
• Unlike brainstorming, mapping focuses on how ideas logically connect.
• Writers stay on track by following a set of guidelines to say what they want to say, how they want to say it, and in what order they want to say it.
• Mapping aids in organization by outlining points for a stronger draft.

Looping

• Looping is an extended form of freewriting.
• After freewriting, the writer identifies a main idea and conducts another round of freewriting.
• This is repeated to narrow the writer's focus.

Prewriting Examples

• A list of uses for wood in response to a prompt about the lumber industry.
• A map detailing burial rites of Ancient Egyptians.
• Freewriting about memories.

Importance of Prewriting

• Prewriting is essential to the writing process.
• Writers can explore different approaches to a topic or prompt.
• It helps writers decide what content to explore further, based on interest and knowledge.
• Writing becomes stronger due to the focus and intent from prewriting.