Weekly Writing Tip: Be Prepared

Summer break is nearly over. As you get ready for Fall quarter to start, take specific steps to prepare for your English classes (and other classes you expect to include writing assignments). Here is a list of supplies and resources that are helpful throughout the writing process:

• Access to a computer with Microsoft Word. Your local or college library is a great place to use Word for free. As a student, you can often get discounts on Microsoft products. If you plan to buy your own computer, check with your college bookstore to see if they offer Microsoft Office at a student price.
• A USB drive. USB drives are also called flash or thumb drives. They contain a certain amount of memory and can be easily moved from one computer to another. They also work well for backing up your assignments. Save your paper or project to two places - your computer and your USB drive - in case an issue arises with one of them.
• Paper and pen/pencil. Physically writing material is essential for many students. If you are a read/write learner or a kinesthetic learner, have good old-fashioned notebook paper and pens or pencils ready to go.
• A voice recorder. Check out this previous post for more information about how recording your thoughts can help with the writing process.
• Purdue OWL. Bookmark Purdue's Online Writing Lab: http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/. In addition to MLA and APA Guides (listed on the bottom left of the page under Suggested Resources), Purdue OWL offers tips for developing your thesis, creating an outline, checking your grammar and punctuation, and much more. Take some time to explore the site, so you know where to look for information when you need it.
• Information about your college's writing center. Check you college's website for the hours and location of the writing center, learning lab, drop-in tutoring, or other in-person writing resource available to you. The schedule for the Learning Lab for LWIT students is listed on the right. Review your class schedule and determine which days and times will work for you to visit the writing center.

Lastly, create a space where writing will come more easily to you. Do you need music to focus or silence? Do you prefer to sit at a desk or on your couch or not sit at all and walk around? Being prepared to write lessens anxiety and helps you focus on and hopefully even enjoy the writing process. Happy writing!