Chapter fourteen

Chapter fourteen: Drafting

Chapter 14 talks about the process of creating a draft. It is divided into five questions.

The first question deals with the use of an outline to draft a document whether the draft is formal or informal. The formal draft for instance can use main points in the outline to form topic sentences for a paragraph and also use sub points to form supporting sentences.

The second question deals with the elements of an effective draft including a focus on the central idea, organized pattern, use of details, integrated information and transitions between paragraphs.

Each paragraph should have a central idea (the main argument, observation or question) in the form of topic sentence. The rest of the sentences are concentrated on the broader topic display.

Paragraphs should follow an organized pattern such as chronology, description, definition, cause/effect, process explanation, pro/con, multiple perspectives, comparison/contrast, strengths/weaknesses, costs/benefits and problem/solution in order to present the  information in the order the reader anticipates; this will help the reader to focus better on ideas and arguments.

The use of details in paragraphs is very important. Details provide better and more concrete understanding of the issue.

The writer uses information from sources to gain more strength for his argument and expand on the central idea by use of quotations, paraphrases and summaries.

Transitions are words and phrases used within and between paragraphs and they link information and ideas.  They can help readers i.e. follow a sequence: furthermore, in addition; to contrast: however, although; to introduce a conclusion: as a result, for this reason etc.  It is always best to refer to previously introduced information and ideas and then to introduce new information and ideas at the end of a sentence.

The third question in composing the draft is in what way the writer should frame the introduction. By framing the introduction the writer can highlight specific situations, particular questions and convey a chosen set of details to lead the readers to view his argument in a particular way.

The writer can use different strategies to write the introduction. To state a topic is one of them, and means to bring up the issue the writer is focusing on. Another strategy would be to establish the context which is basically providing background information about the subject. An alternate approach is stating the thesis. Defining a problem is another strategy for the introduction, where the author proposes a solution to a problem or defines the problem. The surprise statement method implies providing new or unusual information about the issue. Asking a question is another strategy that will involve readers into the conversation. Another approach is to tell a story and make the point. The historical account strategy provides the reader with historical background. Draw a contrast is a method of comparing and contrasting a topic to invite the reader into the conversation. Lastly, the method of leading with a quotation lends credibility to the writer’s topic.

The fourth question is how to make the document easy to follow. The document that is well organized and designed will help the readers move smoothly through its content. The strategies of this style are providing maps, use of headings and subheadings, providing forecasts and cross-references as well as use of the menu and design principles.

The fifth question is about drafting the conclusion. The conclusion is used to reinforce the main points for the readers. There are several strategies to choose from such as offer additional analysis, speculate about the future, close with a quote, or a story, or a question. Furthermore, the writer can call the reader to action. Lastly the conclusion can link to the introduction by mirroring the elements used in the introduction or expanding the ideas of the introduction.