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Write on target. We can even answer rhetorical questions. 458-1455 writingcenter.tamu.edu. Managing Group Writing Projects. Where Do I Start?. Remember: This is a GROUP assignment. Get everyone involved. Prepare yourself! It may be hard, but stick with it, and you’ll be fine.
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Write on target. We can even answer rhetorical questions. 458-1455 writingcenter.tamu.edu
Where Do I Start? Remember: This is a GROUP assignment. Get everyone involved. • Prepare yourself! It may be hard, but stick with it, and you’ll be fine.
Creating a Successful Collaborative Writing Project • Know your team. • Plan the timeline. • Brainstorm and outline. • Compose a first draft. • Compose a second draft. • Prepare a final version. • Proofread. • Revel in success.
Step 1: Know Your Team. Exchange contact information. Become acquainted with everyone. Set up your first meeting.
Your First Meeting • Review the assignment together. • Compare schedules and set a regular meeting time and place. • Delegate roles. Be honest about strengths, weaknesses, and experience when deciding on roles. • Define each role as a team. Roles might include Project Manager, Chief Editor, Secretary, etc. • Review and agree upon rules for group meetings.
Guidance for Group Meetings • Come prepared. Stay on topic–agendas can help here. Keep track of time and honor established limits. Take good notes on discussions. Respect team and class deadlines.
Step 2: Plan the timeline. • At your first meeting, create a basic plan for the whole project, including individual and group deadlines. • Establish expectations for the next step: brainstorming and outlining.
Step 3: Brainstorm and Outline • Each member needs to give input. • There are several ways to generate ideas, but we will focus on the group brainstorming session. Important: Choose a method and commit to it. Think Outside the Box
Brainstorming Techniques • Start by reviewing and identifying the type of writing, the audience, and the purpose of the document. • Members can list ideas individually. • Share your ideas. Don’t hold back, and don’t be judgmental. • Pick the strongest, and then discuss them more. Decide on your main points.
Group Outlining • Make a list of topics you decided to cover. • Develop sub-points for each topic. • Create an outline. • Divide the work into sections to write based on the outline and each member’s interests and strengths. • Make sure to divide the work equitably.
Step 4: Compose a First Draft Members should use the group outline to compose their individual sections. • This outline should clarify the expectations for the final product. • Members should give their sections to an editor who will combine them into one document.
Step 5: Compose a Second Draft • After the editor puts the document together, meet again to edit and revise. • Discuss the edits so each group member knows where the paper is going. • Based on this discussion, revamp the outline. Group members should improve their sections based on the new outline and re-submit them to the editor.
Step 6: Prepare a Final Version • It’s not done. You have to proofread. ALL of you. The editor (or a small editorial team) should piece revised sections together to create a final polished product. • The editor should work on developing a consistent voice and correct, consistent formatting and style. • This might be a good time to submit the paper to Turnitin.com.
Step 7: Proofread. • Everyone on the team is responsible for the final version, so everyone should check the final printed copy. • All members should look for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. • Carefully check the paper for proper documentation and citation. • Discuss and agree upon edits.
Stuck Along the Way? Schedule a group appointment with the UWC if desired. We can help you at any stage.
Step 8: You’re Done! Once the group has proofed the final version and the editor has made the last changes, you’re done! Reflect on what you have learned about your teammates’ strengths and weaknesses and how this will affect future work. Prepare for the inevitable next time!
Don’t Forget We are here to help with any of your writing concerns. Check us out on… 214 Evans Library | 205 West Campus Library writingcenter.tamu.edu | 979-458-1455