Based on my last paper, I am focusing a lot on making my thesis more developed and more specific. I brainstormed a lot in order to try to find a thesis that was not broad like my last essay. I wanted to try and find a topic that allowed me to construct new ideas. Additionally, I didn’t want to just put a bunch of words down without a purpose. I tried to ensure that my sentences all correlated to my thesis, and in the process of revision, I will focus a lot on this.
In revising my paper, I want to ensure that I flush out all of the “fluff” in my paper. I want every word to have a purpose and not just be fillers in order to meet the word requirement. Additionally, during my revision process, I will need to ensure that all of my thoughts connect back to my thesis. Currently, I have one paragraph that I think should make my argument really strong, but I haven’t properly connected to the rest of my paper.
In order to achieve my goals, I will:
- I need to connect all of my ideas to my argument. Whether I add to my thesis, remove some parts of my essay, or add more explanation, I need to ensure that everything that I have written strengthens my central claim.
- I need to remove all the “fluff.” I will delete sentences that don’t support my argument and remove words and phrases that are repetitive.
- Finalize my works cited page.
- I need to carefully comb through my conclusion. My current conclusion was rushed and not thoroughly thought through. I will not only read through it but ensure that it connect and wraps up my ideas in a new way.
- I will polish my piece by fixing grammatical and spelling issues throughout the text, ensuring that it is easy to read from a fundamental standpoint.
My biggest challenge will be removing the repetitive and extra text, that does not relate to my arguments. Since I put so much time into writing this first draft, it is always hard deleting phrases and thoughts that I spent energy on, although I know it is a necessary part of the revision process. As the author, it always tends to be harder to see what doesn’t strengthen my piece, but it is a skill that I know I can get better at.
If obstacles arise that are too hard for me to solve on my own, I will as my friends and classmates to read over my piece and give advice on my dilemma. Additionally, I can utilize the Little Seagull, and They Say, I Say, and exercises that they have to try to overcome the obstacle.
