Online Guide to Writing and Research

Chapter 2: The Writing Process

Rewriting

Getting Feedback

A writer seeks feedback to begin the revising process. Once you have a draft on paper, you can get feedback from others on whether you have met your stated goals and whether what you have written is suitable. Although many students are reluctant to take the time to get feedback, getting an objective opinion about your draft gives you valuable information you can use in revision. A way to get especially valuable feedback is to give your teacher, classmates, or even your work colleagues a checklist of items you particularly want feedback on.

You may use a checklist similar to the one presented here to solicit specific feedback in particular areas or a modified, shorter list.

Checklist for Feedback on Your Writing Assignments

Planning and Researching

____	Is the thesis statement clear and focused on one major idea?
____	Are the intent and purpose expressed clearly?
____	Is the target audience clearly defined?
____	Does the scope seem appropriate for this writing project?
____	Is sufficient information provided?
____	Does the author of the paper or assignment consider other perspectives or address possible questions?
____	Are facts and opinions explained and supported in convincing detail?

Organizing and Drafting

____	Is the controlling idea sufficiently developed?
____	Are the major ideas defined clearly and sequenced logically to fit the purpose?
____	Do the minor ideas clearly support the major ideas?
____	Does the introduction clearly set the stage by announcing the thesis and controlling idea?
____	Does the conclusion return to the controlling idea and review the major ideas?

Revising

____	Do the transitions clearly act as verbal signals?
____	Does the author use logical connections and summarize when necessary?
____	Are there mechanical errors the author should correct?
____	Does the format of the paper promote quick, clear understanding?
____	Do the graphics clarify the text?

Print Checklist

As you develop as a writer, you will adopt a positive attitude toward feedback and solicit it whenever possible. Three ways of gaining feedback are

Requesting your teacher to approve the wording of your thesis and the general direction and tone of the paper you are writing.
Asking knowledgeable classmates and colleagues to read your writing so that you know how others familiar with your subject will receive it.
Soliciting feedback from people who are unfamiliar with your work and the subject you are writing about. This kind of feedback is especially helpful if you are writing for a general audience because it enables others to tell you when you are not making your points crystal clear.

Getting feedback is a precursor to revising your draft, which you may do several times. The comments of others and your own assessment of your work can become the basis for your revision.

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