Chapter 15: Process Writing

CHAPTER 15: PROCESS WRITING

This chapter goes over writing an essay on a process. Your goal is to analyze a process and break it down into steps; then write about it as a description, explanation, or instructions on how to do the process.

Keys for success

· Think logically. Study the process and understand it and write clearly.

· Know your purpose and your audience. Inform a broad audience how something happens. Let the reader know how something is made or done. Show readers how to do a process themselves.

· Consider all your readers. Make your writing accessible to all readers, include all information, and use understandable language

Topics to consider

· A course-related process

· A process that keeps you healthy

· A process that you’ve mastered

· A process in the news

· A process that helps you get a job

· A process your planned occupation

Guidelines to writing about a process

1. Select a topic.

2. Review the process. Make an organized: subject on top, list the steps, and outcome on the bottom. Review and look for issues.

3. Research as needed. Look for information that shows what the process is, the required steps, order of steps, out come, and possible safety precautions.

4. Organize information. Revise organizer by adding steps and/ reordering the steps. Create and outline that includes steps and supporting details.

5. Draft the document

a. Describing a process

i. Opening: introduces the topic, states the importance, and an overview of the steps.

ii. Middle: describe each step links the steps, and describes out come.

iii. Closing: describe the process as a whole and restate key points.

b. Explaining a process

i. Opening: introduce topic and an overview of the process

ii. Middle: explain each step, how to do it, use transitions, and explain outcome.

iii. Closing: explain follow-up activity, and restate key points.

c. Writing instructions

i. Opening: name process in title; summarize process, and list materials and tools needed.

ii. Middle: number each step, present each step separately and use commands directed to reader.

iii. Closing: short paragraph describe follow-up action.

6. Revise the writing. Check for clear opening identifying process and clear steps in correct order. Check that explanations and instructions have clear details of each step, closing includes follow-up activity and safety precautions.

7. Test the writing. Read and check organization and completion on process. Perform the process yourself using the instructions and explanations. Revise as needed.

8. Get feedback. Get a peer reviewer who is unfamiliar with the process. Have them check for clarity, completeness, correctness and have them perform the process.

9. Edit writing by checking for word choice, clear transitions, consistent verb tense, verbs that give clear commands, correct terminology, informed and respectable voice, and proper format.

10. Publish essay.