Throughout the course of my education I have attended nine different schools in five states. Causing me to encounter a number of writing styles and techniques from my many teachers. To fit the expectations of each new teacher I was forced to adapt my style of writing. As a result of the numerous requirements I have had to meet, my writing style is basically a collaboration of the many methods I have learned.
I begin the process of writing by thinking about the topic. This may include brainstorming and collecting data to expand my knowledge of the subject. When I brainstorm I get a paper and pen to write down any ideas that come to mind. I then develop the jumbled mass of thoughts into a list of more complete ideas or points that I wish to address. After gathering my thoughts, I begin to think about the paper's format. I attempt to understand my audience and what I want them to grasp from my paper. Depending on the purpose of the writing, I mentally choose a format that helps me best arrange my thoughts. After organizing my thoughts and developing an understanding of the paper as a whole, I write a thesis statement, which acts basically as the topic sentence of my paper. I then begin to mold my list of points and thesis statement into a more organized outline. .
After prewriting, I take a break to clear my mind before beginning my first draft. I turn off the radio or television and clean up around the room to remove any clutter that might inhibit my concentration. After creating a peaceful environment, I begin writing my essay. In the first sentence I attempt to grab the reader's attention. In a personal essay I may use examples from my life. If I am writing a critical essay I sometimes use allusions or references. The last sentence of my introduction is the thesis statement. My introduction is always a broad set-up for the body of the essay. .
After completing the introduction I begin on the body of the paper.
