The writing process is not just focused on the act of writing. It involves writers in thinking, discussing, reading, planning, writing, editing and rewriting the writing. Writing is a process of repetitive writing and then rewriting until the writing is complete.
As we write the text we begin with a blank piece of paper towards a complete piece of writing. However, we have a problem with how and where to get the necessary information that will fill the pages. It is said that it is difficult to write, especially if we do not know what to write.
Getting the Topic
In writing, no one will try to write if there is no plan to write. The writing should be kept in mind and planned so that the collection of information related to the generated idea to be written is necessary. It should be noted in writing the effect the article will have on the reader.
It is not easy to start writing because you are facing a blank piece of paper. You are waiting for the flow of the mind or you really have nothing to think about. This is what writers usually find especially novices.
A writer can get ideas or topics in: (a) different types of literature such as magazines, newspapers, periodicals; (b), media - radio, television, internet; (c) films or documentaries; (d) visual arts; (e) dreams or memories; (f) discussion and exchange of views; (g) personification and dramatization; (h) research; (i) self or class interest.
Writing Stages
Not all writers make good writing in just one chair. A good piece of writing goes through several stages of development from draft to final paper.
Writing assignments are a challenge for students. There are students who have difficulty with this task because they are not used to it, are lazy, or do not like writing. These justifications can only be assumed. The truth is, we can do writing well if we follow writing as a process and not a task that is just a necessity.
As a process, according to Graves (1982), Murray (1985), and Arrogante (2000), writing consists of the following steps: (A) Before Writing; (B) Draft Writing; (C) Revision; (D) Editing; and (E) Publishing.
A. Before Writing (Prewriting)
This is a strategy towards formal writing. This is the first step to be taken in developing the topic to be written. This work can be done individually or in groups.
B. Draft Writing
- It is actually continuous writing without considering possible mistakes.
- Thoughts and thoughts about the topic being written are freely expressed by the student.
- The teacher is waiting for help or questions that the student may ask if the activity is in the classroom.
- After the performance, the student can go back and review the completed text to make the presentation neat and clear.
C. Revision
- It is a modification and rewriting in response to feedback and corrections from teachers, classmates, editors or reviewers.
- The main focus of the revision is the clarification of ideas. This is done to examine the text and content to ensure the accuracy, clarity and structure of the fiction that is easily understood by the reader.
- In this section, corrects suspected errors, changes what should be changed and replaces what should be replaced.
D. Editing
- This part is correcting grammar, spelling, sentence structure, correct word usage and writing mechanics.
- In this section the paper is polished to ensure that each word and sentence conveys the correct meaning. In editing, unrelated sentences are rewritten to better reflect related ideas.
E. Publishing
- Publishing is sharing of the generated writing with the target audience. This work includes the following:
1. Publication of selected writings in the campus newspaper
2. Reading in front of the class and listening to others read
3. Creating a booklet, album or portfolio of writings
4. Exhibit or display on the bulletin board of the writings
Types of Writing for Different Purposes
We write a variety of writings for different reasons or purposes and types of readers. It is useful for different times, places, ways and needs:
A. Writing to learn and understand
- Recording (note taking)
- Brainstorming and quickwriting
- Semantic mapping
- Venn diagram
- Graphic organizer
- Journal
B. Writing to communicate
- Letter
- Biography
- Report or report
C. Imaginative writing
- Literary works (stories, poems,
essays, etc.)
Example: Writing a Bionote
Biography Writing Method
Simple way of writing
1. First line: name
2. Second line: 2-4 adjectives describing self or the person being presented
3. Third line: parents
4. Fourth line: brothers and sisters
5. Fifth line: passions and likes
6. Sixth line: fears
7. Seventh line: dreams
8. Eighth line: residence
9. Ninth line: last name
Controversial writing style as an ordinary introduction orally.
1. First paragraph - name, date of birth, place of birth, address,
parents, siblings
2. Second paragraph - traits, passions, favorites, hobbies, things discovered
to oneself
3. Third paragraph - insights into things, dreams, ambitions, expectations
coming season, tasks to achieve success
We have different styles in writing, but setting these as a foundation will help you.