A thesis is not your paper’s topic, but rather your interpretation of the question or subject.

When you write, it is helpful when your ideas are presented in an order that makes sense. The writing you complete in all your courses exposes how analytically and critically your mind works. In some courses, the only direct contact you may have with your instructor is through the assignments you write for the course.

Prewriting is the stage of the writing process where you transfer your abstract thoughts into more concrete ideas in ink on paper (or in type on a computer screen).

Her current writing process is different and reflects years of experience

Prewriting is the first stage of the writing process, typically followed by drafting, revision, editing, and publishing. For a more detailed look at the prewriting process, check out the chapter on Drafting Strategies.

No matter what type of assignment you are writing, it will be important for you to follow a writing process: a series of steps a writer takes to complete a writing task.

How does this assignment relate to other course readings or to concepts discussed in class?

How deeply do I need to understand the reading?

determining your rhetorical situation

It can be difficult to feel excited about an intro writing course when you are eager to begin the coursework in your major (and if you are an English major, let your teacher know so you can talk about your future education plans). Regardless of your field of study, honing your writing skills—plus your reading and critical-thinking skills—will help you build a solid academic foundation.