The Author's Note

In order to get the most out of an appointment with your writing tutor, it is important that you prepare for and reflect on your session. The Author’ s Note is a tool designed to help you do this. Simply write your answers to the first three sections before your appointment; these will help guide your conversation with your tutor. The last section is to be completed after your appointment; this section will give you the material you need to tackle your next draft. Note that a series of these documents can help you chart revisions from draft to draft, as well as help you write your self evaluation. So take a moment to consider your draft. Happy writing!

Before Your Session

History

Write the history of your draft: Why are you writing this piece? From where did the idea for this piece of writing come? How many drafts have you written? What has changed from draft to draft? Why did you make these choices/changes?

Strengths

Note the strengths of your draft: What areas seem particularly strong? What parts are you proud of? What about these parts strikes you as exemplary? What excites you about them?

Places for Improvement

Point out places for further revision: What areas are giving you trouble? Which seem confusing or out of place? Why? What questions do you have for your tutor?

After Your Session

Insights

Note knowledge you gained from your session: What feedback did you receive to aid your revision? What strategies will you use to approach writing your next draft? What questions did your tutor ask, and what were your answers? How might these answers guide you in your next draft? What is your plan for this draft, and why?