Tuesday, August 26, 2014
When writing anything from a simple "Thank You" note to a 20 page research paper, I struggle with the initial start. The first sentence is where I have the most trouble. Finding that first word, or topic or story just to grab the readers' attention is difficult. Another struggle for me is diction. Sometimes I feel as though the language I'm using is too "simple" or not "smart" enough. Writing a sufficient paper relies on a good variety of complication and simplicity. I also seem to struggle with making multiple drafts. Throughout high school I would write one draft and just turn it in sometimes without even a second glance or opinion. This caused many problems with my writings and did not allow me to reach my full potential.
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I also tend to struggle with beginning my papers, to have that attention-grabbing sentence or two to tell the reader to continue sometimes is the hardest. But having that detail allows you to eliminate your second problem, diction. If you can keep a reader enticed with detail and fluidity, there is no need for "smart" words and long sentences. That first sentence can be resolved with patience: if you plan your paper in advance, and give yourself time to think about everything that is going into a writing, knowing where to start will be the least of your worries.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the other comment. You don't need to worry about writing things that don't sound "smart" because the chances are that every person who will read your writing has the same fear about sounding dumb or like they don't know how to write, I know I do! Also, you shouldn't over think trying to make you're paper complicated yet simplistic. Having a simple paper can be just as compelling and well written as a paper that is complicated. A balance is good, but it could be a great writing either way.
ReplyDeleteThis is exactly another problem I have. Starting out is always the most intimidating for writing, as well as other things in life. It seems like every well-written, interesting piece has some catch, something I don't feel i am that strong with. I also have your same problem about whether or not I have used too simple of words or words that come across as "not smart enough", I'm never sure if what i do is enough.
ReplyDeleteGrabbing someone's attention anywhere is difficult, especially in writing/on paper, when the audience is basing your ideals and opinion and what you have written or put on the paper. Sometimes I decide on one topic and realize half way through that I have changed topics or am veering off the main point of the whole paper. For years, teachers and professors have told us, as students, that multiple drafts of your writing is necessary, but when your up at 2 in the morning still writing that paper, the last thing you want to do is write 2 more versions of that same paper! Now, as a student in college, organization in your life is inevitable so you can write those multiple drafts at the right times instead of 2 AM the day before it's due!
ReplyDeleteI can relate to this too. No matter the topic, the length of the assignment, or even a status on facebook, I always have to take time to think about where am I going to start. No type of writing comes natural to me. Another issue I run into, is turning in that one draft as your final draft. We all have done it. Looking back on it, I believe I did this because I waited till the last minute to write my essay and did not have time to reread the paper and write another draft. After reading these blogs and readings we were assigned, I am coming to conclude that all writers have to give themselves time to produce a quality final draft. Time is everything because then you have time to write that "shitty first draft" and have time to reread it and make corrections. As Leigh said above me, organization really is everything and planning when you are going to begin writing is crucial to the outcome of the final paper.
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