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What can I expect at the Writing Center?

We believe that all writers, at all stages of writing, need readers. Our consultants are trained to help you engage deeply with your own ideas and to consider new ways to move forward with your writing projects.

Writing Center Consultations

How do consultations work?

Because we work with you at all stages of the writing process, you can expect a variety of things from our individualized sessions. We might help you…

  • Interpret writing assignments
  • Understand complex readings attached to writing projects
  • Brainstorm ideas to get you started or unstuck
  • Ask questions about your ideas
  • Craft a strong central idea or thesis
  • Incorporate sources effectively
  • Adhere to a specific style guide (MLA, APA, Chicago)
  • Organize your ideas
  • Revise drafts (early, late, or final drafts)
  • Write special projects like resumes, cover letters, proposals, graduate school applications

and more!

How do I prepare for a writing consultation?

Here are a few things to consider to make your visit to the Writing Center productive:

  • Bring your writing assignment with you. It would be helpful for us to see a description of the assignment, the criteria or rubric, or the prompt, etc.
  • Bring your draft with you. We have computers for you to use, but you can bring your own device or a printed copy. We do not have printers, so make use of the many printing labs on campus.
  • You may schedule an appointment with one of our writing consultants for 1 hour (usually the right amount of time for a paper that is 5-10 pages in length). For significantly longer papers, 10 pages or more, we recommend making multiple appointments as necessary for a full review of the work.
  • You can visit the Writing Center for up to 2 hours per week.
  • Walk-ins are welcome! Keep in mind that during midterms and finals the Writing Center is extra busy, so we suggest setting up an appointment during those times.
  • We do not accept papers dropped off for comments/edits. But we do have online asynchronous consultations available!