- Blocking an Argument
- Mind Mapping
- Free Writing
- T-Charts
- Formal Outline
- Outline Template: Worksheet
- Outline Checklist
Prewriting involves any writing or work that you do before you attempt a formal draft of your paper. Some pre-writing strategies help you to develop your thesis or to refine it; others help you find the best way to organize your ideas. While prewriting activities take some time up-front, they can save you time and agony when you write your draft.
There are different prewriting strategies; experiment with different approaches to see which ones work best for you.
Blocking an Argument
While no one-size fits all model exists for blocking an argument, different prewriting activities can help you to separate main points from examples and determine the best order in which to present your arguments.
Mind Mapping
Free-Writing
- Begin free-writing by giving yourself a specific time period, ten minutes or so, and write on your subject for the whole time. It helps to focus on a specific aspect of your topic.
- Write whatever comes into your mind; do not stop to review what you have written, and do not lift your pen from the paper or your fingers from the keyboard. The idea is to keep yourself writing so that your internal editor does not have the opportunity to make you self-conscious or faint of heart.
- Review what you have written and look for patterns, repeated words, or ideas that develop through writing. The free write can help you to refine your argument and determine a possible structure for your ideas.
T-Charts
Formal Outlining
Example of a Formal Outline
Blocking Supporting Arguments - Example
Outline Template: Worksheet
Download this outline template worksheet to use as a guide while you block your argument and organize your paragraphs.
Outline Checklist
Do a simple visual check of your outline for three main qualities: motion, analysis, and substance.
- Motion: Do the main divisions of your thesis move somewhere? You should take mental steps from section to section, not inch your way along.
- Analysis: Is the thesis clearly supported by the main sections? Does each sub-section of the paper support its main section? Does the blocking of the argument logically fit with the argument?
- Substance. Are your assertions backed up by evidence? Look at the level of detail in your outline. Is there sufficient and convincing evidence that backs up your assertions? Without this, you may write a witty, insightful and even elegant essay, but if you do not show your reader how your insights illuminate the material itself, you will not be rewarded for your efforts.