Do you feel as though your papers sound choppy? You may be in need of some transitions. Transitions are great, because they guide your reader from thought to thought within your paper. Relying on the same old transitions like next, first, second, third, and in conclusion can be very boring. Try spicing up your next composition with some real zingers such as moreover, likewise, or subsequently. Remember, your paper should not read like a grocery list of thoughts; guide your reader through your argument using strategically placed transitions!

For examples of transitions, and when to use them, please visit the following sites:

http://www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/transitions.html

http://www.wisc.edu/writing/Handbook/Transitions.html

http://www.ssdd.uce.ac.uk/learner/writing/transex.htm


posted by: Katie

It's the start of a new semester and maybe after relaxing the entire month of January, your ideas are coming a little slowly. What about that first paper you’ve been assigned? Coming up short on ideas or a plan of attack? Don’t panic. There is a way to get started that will make your job a little easier: Brainstorming. Brainstorming is when you sit down and just write down every idea that pops into your head. Don’t think, just write. Your notes don’t even have to be complete sentences or have proper grammar-just get your ideas out. Brainstorming works well for deciding on a topic, but it can also be an effective way of gathering ideas for the bulk of your paper.

For instance, if you are writing a paper about The Scarlet Letter in your lit class, and you want to analyze all the instances of symbolism, you can brainstorm every symbol that you remember from the book. You will be surprised by how many things that come to you if you take a moment to think before you begin writing.

So before you begin that paper, take a moment to write down some notes. You will thank yourself in the long run-the actual writing of the paper may move a little more quickly than normal.


posted by: Stacey

The Writing Center is open for the spring semester!! Come by to its location on the main level of the Frick Center to schedule an appointment or to just walk in for a tutoring session.

The Writing Center tutors will work with you to develop your writing skills!


posted by: Melina