THE FIVE STEPS OF THE WRITING PROCESS

STEP 1:  PREWRITING

                   THINK

• Decide on a topic to write about.
• Consider who will read or listen to your written work.
• Brainstorm ideas about the subject.
• List places where you can research information.
• Do your research.

STEP 2:  DRAFTING

                   WRITE

• Put the information you researched into your own words.
• Write sentences and paragraphs even if they are not perfect.
• Read what you have written and judge if it says what you mean.
• Show it to others and ask for suggestions.

STEP 3:  REVISING

                   MAKE IT BETTER

• Read what you have written again.
• Think about what others said about it.
• Rearrange words or sentences.
• Take out or add parts.
• Replace overused or unclear words.
• Read your writing aloud to be sure it flows smoothly.

STEP 4:  PROOFREADING

                   MAKE IT CORRECT

• Be sure all sentences are complete.
• Correct spelling, capitalization, and punctuation.
• Change words that are not used correctly.
• Have someone check your work.
• Recopy it correctly and neatly.

STEP 5:  PUBLISHING

                   SHARE THE FINISHED PRODUCT

• Read your writing aloud to a group.
• Create a book of your work.
• Send a copy to a friend or relative.
• Put your writing on display.
• Illustrate, perform, or set your creation to music.
• Congratulate yourself on a job well done!