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This index contains all of the questions available on this FAQ, divided by type. Some questions may be repeated in two or more sections. | This index contains all of the questions available on this FAQ, divided by type. Some questions may be repeated in two or more sections. | ||
{{TOC right}} | {{TOC right}} | ||
== | ==Primer Questions== | ||
Consider the following as a primer for first-year college writing. These are the {{c|Basics (FAQ)|basic concepts}} that you should master as soon as possible. | Consider the following as a primer for first-year college writing. These are the {{c|Basics (FAQ)|basic concepts}} that you should master as soon as possible. | ||
# [[CompFAQ/First-Year Composition|What writing knowledge should I already have coming into college?]] | # [[CompFAQ/First-Year Composition|What writing knowledge should I already have coming into college?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Getting Started|How do I get started writing?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Getting Started|How do I get started writing?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Questions|What questions do I need to ask as a writer?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Questions|What questions do I need to ask as a writer?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Critical Thinking|What is “critical | # [[CompFAQ/Critical Thinking|What is “critical thinking”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Thesis|What is a “thesis statement”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Thesis|What is a “thesis statement”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Persuasive Writing|How can my writing be more persuasive?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Persuasive Writing|How can my writing be more persuasive?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/AI|Is it cheating or unethical to use an AI to help with writing?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Lit Primer|How do I begin writing about literature?]] | |||
{{clr}} | {{clr}} | ||
{{CompFAQ Search}} | |||
==Foundational Questions== | ==Foundational Questions== | ||
| Line 22: | Line 26: | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Ideas|Where do I go for essay topic ideas?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Ideas|Where do I go for essay topic ideas?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Purpose|What is meant by “purpose” in an essay?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Purpose|What is meant by “purpose” in an essay?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Getting Started|What’s the best way to organize my thoughts before writing?]] | |||
{{div col end}} | |||
==Rhetorical Questions== | |||
{{c|Rhetoric (FAQ)|Rhetoric}} refers to the art of persuasion, using language to influence or persuade an audience to accept a particular point of view or take a specific action. Rhetoric involves the use of various strategies, including appeals to [[CompFAQ/Rhetoric/Ethos, Logos, Pathos|''ethos'', ''pathos'', and ''logos'']], as well as the use of rhetorical devices such as metaphor, simile, and hyperbole. | |||
{{div col|colwidth=20em}} | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Rhetoric|What is “rhetoric”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Audience|What is “audience”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Audience|What is “audience”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Audience/Needs|How do I access my audience’s needs and expectations?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Audience/Tailor|How do I tailor my writing for my audience?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Credibility|What is “credibility”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Credibility|What is “credibility”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/You|How do I use “you” strategically?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Argument|What is a “logical argument”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Development|How do I develop my argument?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Development|How do I develop my argument?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Counterarguments|How do I address counterarguments | # [[CompFAQ/Counterarguments|How do I address counterarguments?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Figurative Language|What is “figurative language”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Generalizations|What are “generalizations” and “stereotypes”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Inclusive Language|What is “inclusive language”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Hyperbole|What is “hyperbole”?]] | |||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
| Line 39: | Line 58: | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Organization/Conclusion|What is the conclusion of an essay?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Organization/Conclusion|What is the conclusion of an essay?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Call to Action|What is a “call to action” and how do I use one?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Call to Action|What is a “call to action” and how do I use one?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Topic Sentence|What is a “topic sentence”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Topic Sentence|What is a “topic sentence”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Unity|What is “unity”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Unity|What is “unity”?]] | ||
| Line 45: | Line 63: | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Transitions|What are “transitions”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Transitions|What are “transitions”?]] | ||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
==Mechanics Questions== | ==Mechanics Questions== | ||
{{c|Mechanics (FAQ)|Mechanics}} refers to the technical aspects of writing, such as spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and formatting. These details give writing clarity, readability, and professionalism. These questions do not cover all mechanical considerations, but those that seem to plague college writers, like proper conventions. | {{c|Mechanics (FAQ)|Mechanics}} refers to the technical aspects of writing, such as spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and formatting. These details give writing clarity, readability, and professionalism. These questions do not cover all mechanical considerations, but those that seem to plague college writers, like proper conventions. | ||
{{div col|colwidth=20em}} | |||
# How do I know when I need to use a comma? | # [[CompFAQ/Comma|How do I know when I need to use a comma?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Comma#Comma Splice|What is a “comma splice”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Oxford Comma|Is a comma really necessary after the last element in a list of three or more?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Oxford Comma|Is a comma really necessary after the last element in a list of three or more?]] | ||
# How do | # [[CompFAQ/Semicolon|How do I use a semicolon?]] | ||
# How do possessives differ from plurals? | # [[CompFAQ/Possessives|How do possessives differ from plurals?]] | ||
# What tense do I use when writing about texts? | # [[CompFAQ/Conventions|What tense do I use when writing about texts?]] | ||
# How do I present titles of poems, novels, etc. in my essay? | # [[CompFAQ/Conventions#Titles|How do I present titles of poems, novels, etc. in my essay?]] | ||
{{div col end}} | |||
==Stylistic Questions== | ==Stylistic Questions== | ||
| Line 69: | Line 81: | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Stylistic Strategies|What is “style” and how can I make it more effective?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Stylistic Strategies|What is “style” and how can I make it more effective?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Detail|What is “interesting detail” and how do I use it?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Detail|What is “interesting detail” and how do I use it?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Vague Language|What is “vague/weak” language and how do I avoid it?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Vague Language|What is “vague/weak” language and how do I avoid it?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Point of View|What is “point of view”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Tone|What is “tone”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Tone|What is “tone”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/It|What is wrong with “it” | # [[CompFAQ/It and This|What is wrong with “it” and “this”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Passive and Active Voice|What is the difference between “passive” and “active” voice?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Passive Voice|What is the | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Word Choice|What is “word choice”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Word Choice|What is “word choice”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Awkward Constructions|What is an “awkward sentence”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Awkward Constructions|What is an “awkward sentence”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Redundancy|What is “redundancy”? Is it the same as “repetition”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Redundancy|What is “redundancy”? Is it the same as “repetition”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Wordiness|What is “wordiness”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Wordiness|What is “wordiness”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Cliché|When is something “clichéd” or “trite”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Cliché|When is something “clichéd” or “trite”?]] | ||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
| Line 85: | Line 95: | ||
==Revision and Editing Questions== | ==Revision and Editing Questions== | ||
Copyediting and revision are crucial components in composition. When you think you’re finished writing, it’s time to really get to work. | Copyediting and revision are crucial components in composition. When you think you’re finished writing, it’s time to really get to work. | ||
# [[CompFAQ/ | # [[CompFAQ/Editing and Revision|What is “editing” and “revision”?]] | ||
# What are some basic editing strategies for new writers? | # [[CompFAQ/Editing and Revision|What are some basic editing and revision strategies for new writers?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/ | # [[CompFAQ/Proofreading|What is “proofreading”?]] | ||
# What | # [[CompFAQ/Reflection|What does it mean to “reflect” on my writing?]] | ||
==Reading Questions== | ==Reading Questions== | ||
When we {{c|Reading|read}} a text critically, we analyze, evaluate, and interpret. Analysis involves breaking down a text or subject matter into its component parts and examining how those parts work together to create meaning. Evaluation involves making a judgment or assessment about the value or quality of a text or subject matter. Interpretation involves examining a text or subject matter and offering an explanation or understanding of its meaning. | When we {{c|Reading|read}} a text critically, we analyze, evaluate, and interpret. Analysis involves breaking down a text or subject matter into its component parts and examining how those parts work together to create meaning. Evaluation involves making a judgment or assessment about the value or quality of a text or subject matter. Interpretation involves examining a text or subject matter and offering an explanation or understanding of its meaning. | ||
{{div col|colwidth=20em}} | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Critical Thinking|What is “critical thinking"?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Critical Thinking|What is “critical thinking"?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Analysis|What is “analysis”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Analysis|What is “analysis”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Interpretation|What is “interpretation”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Interpretation|What is “interpretation”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Evaluation|What does it mean to “evaluate” a text?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Evaluation|What does it mean to “evaluate” a text?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Difficult Reading|How do I read a difficult text without getting frustrated?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Reading Notes|What are some strategies for reading?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Close Reading|What is “close reading”?]] | |||
{{Div col end}} | |||
==Research Questions== | ==Research Questions== | ||
Literary critic Christopher Hitchens once quipped: “That which can be asserted without evidence can be dismissed without evidence.” Supporting your essay with evidence, examples, and {{c|Research (FAQ)|research}} increases your credibility and makes your argument more persuasive. Strong research is essential to most college writing. | Literary critic Christopher Hitchens once quipped: “That which can be asserted without evidence can be dismissed without evidence.” Supporting your essay with evidence, examples, and {{c|Research (FAQ)|research}} increases your credibility and makes your argument more persuasive. Strong research is essential to most college writing. | ||
{{div col|colwidth=20em}} | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Research|What is research and why is it important?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Support|How do I support my argument?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Evidence|How do I use strong evidence and examples?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Evidence|How do I use strong evidence and examples?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/ | # [[CompFAQ/Research/Primary Sources|What are “primary sources” and how do I use them?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Research| | # [[CompFAQ/Research/Secondary Sources|What are “secondary sources” and how do I use them?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Research/Strong Sources|What | # [[CompFAQ/Research/Strong Sources|How do I find strong, credible sources?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Research/ | # [[CompFAQ/Research/Synthesis|What is “synthesis” and why is it important?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Research/MLA| | # [[CompFAQ/Research/Strong Sources#Consulting or Citing Sources|Can I cite Wikipedia or Twitter in my essay?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Research/Quotations and Paraphrases|How do I integrate quotations and paraphrases?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Research/Citations|How do I correctly cite my sources?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Plagiarism|What is plagiarism and how can I avoid it?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Research/Notetaking|What’s the best way to take research notes?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Research/MLA|How do I cite a source using MLA citation style?]] | |||
{{div col end}} | |||
== | ==Literature Questions== | ||
When {{c|Literature|writing about literature}}, we are involved in a process called literary criticism. This involves careful readings of literary texts that form the basis of analysis and interpretation. Learning these skills is crucial for success in higher education. | When {{c|Literature (FAQ)|writing about literature}}, we are involved in a process called literary criticism. This involves careful readings of literary texts that form the basis of analysis and interpretation. Learning these skills is crucial for success in higher education. | ||
{{div col|colwidth=20em}} | {{div col|colwidth=20em}} | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Writing about Literature|I’m not an English major: why should I write about literature?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Writing about Literature|I’m not an English major: why should I write about literature?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Lit Primer|How do I begin writing about literature?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Literary Analysis|What are the basics of literary analysis?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Literary Analysis|What are the basics of literary analysis?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation|What are the basics of interpreting a literary text?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation|What are the basics of interpreting a literary text?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Conventions|What are the conventions and vocabulary necessary for writing about literature?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Close Reading|What is “close reading”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Close Reading|What is “close reading”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Narrative|What is “narrative”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Narrative|What is “narrative”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Theme|What is “theme”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Theme|What is “theme”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/ | # [[CompFAQ/Metaphor and Simile|What is “simile” and “metaphor”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Symbolism|What is “symbolism”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Symbolism|What is “symbolism”?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Allusion|What is “allusion”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Essay Exam|How do I write strong essay exam answers?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Essay Exam#Crafting Strong Short Answers|How do I write strong exam short answers?]] | |||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
=== | ===Literary Interpretation Questions=== | ||
{{div col|colwidth=20em}} | {{div col|colwidth=20em}} | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/Reader Response|What is “reader response”?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/Reader Response|What is “reader response”?]] | ||
| Line 126: | Line 155: | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/Ethical Criticism|What is an “ethical” approach to literature?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/Ethical Criticism|What is an “ethical” approach to literature?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/Feminist Criticism|What is a “feminist” approach to literature?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/Feminist Criticism|What is a “feminist” approach to literature?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/ | # [[CompFAQ/Literary Analysis|What is a “formalist” approach to literature?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/ | # [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/Marxist Criticism|What is a “Marxist” approach to literature?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/New Criticism|What is a “new critical” approach to literature?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/New Historicism|What is a “new historical” approach to literature?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/Post-Colonialism|What is a “post-colonial” approach to literature?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/Post-Colonialism|What is a “post-colonial” approach to literature?]] | ||
# [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/Psychoanalytic Criticism|What is a “psychoanalytical” approach to literature?]] | # [[CompFAQ/Literary Interpretation/Psychoanalytic Criticism|What is a “psychoanalytical” approach to literature?]] | ||
{{div col end}} | {{div col end}} | ||
==Digital Writing Questions== | |||
Writing for digital media involves crafting content tailored for consumption on various digital platforms, such as websites, social media, blogs, and mobile apps. This form of communication requires a combination of traditional writing skills and an understanding of digital tools and trends. The goal is to create clear, concise, and engaging content that resonates with users in the fast-paced, interconnected world of the digital age. | |||
{{div col|colwidth=20em}} | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Technical Writing|What is “technical writing”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing|What is “digital writing”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Tech Writing|What is “technical writing in the digital age”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Skills|Digital literacy requires what skills?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Style|Should digital writing use a particular style?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Documents|How do digital “documents” differ from paper ones?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Remediation|What is “remediation”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Design|What is “document design”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Design/Users|What is “user-centered design”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Design/Responsive|What is “responsive design”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Information Architecture|What is “information architecture”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Usability|What is “usability”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Personas|What are personas?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Credibility|How do I build and maintain “credibility”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Multimodal Approach|What is a “multimodal approach”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Actionable Content|What is a “actionable content”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Scannability|What is “scannability”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Accessibility|What is “accessibility”?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/SEO|What is “SEO” and how do I use it effectively?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Sourcing|How do I cite sources in digital documents?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Links|How do I use links effectively?]] | |||
{{div col end}} | |||
===Webmaster Questions=== | |||
Understanding webmaster skills is of paramount importance to excel as a digital writer. These skills enable writers to manage and optimize their online content, ensuring it is user-friendly and accessible to a global audience. Proficiency in webmaster skills bridges the gap between content creation and publication, enhancing the impact of their documentation in today's web-centric world. | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Skills/Development|What practical development skills should digital writers have?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Professional Domain|Why do I need a professional domain name?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Domain|How do I register a domain name?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Domain/Hosting|Why and how do I get hosting for my domain?]] | |||
# [[CompFAQ/Digital Writing/Blog|What is a “blog” and how do I use it?]] | |||
{{div col end}} | |||
{{CompFAQ-foot}} | {{CompFAQ-foot}} | ||
{{DEFAULTSORT:Index}} | {{DEFAULTSORT:Index}} | ||
[[Category: Index (FAQ)]] | [[Category: Index (FAQ)]] | ||
Latest revision as of 12:26, 19 October 2023
Composition FAQ Question Index
This index contains all of the questions available on this FAQ, divided by type. Some questions may be repeated in two or more sections.
Primer Questions
Consider the following as a primer for first-year college writing. These are the basic concepts that you should master as soon as possible.
- What writing knowledge should I already have coming into college?
- How do I get started writing?
- What questions do I need to ask as a writer?
- What is “critical thinking”?
- What is a “thesis statement”?
- How can my writing be more persuasive?
- Is it cheating or unethical to use an AI to help with writing?
- How do I begin writing about literature?
Foundational Questions
College writers should have some basic knowledge of essay writing, such as the purpose of an essay, the different types of essays, and the components of an essay. They should also have a basic understanding of grammar and mechanics, including sentence structure, punctuation, and spelling. Additionally, they should have some experience with research and the proper citation of sources.
Rhetorical Questions
Rhetoric refers to the art of persuasion, using language to influence or persuade an audience to accept a particular point of view or take a specific action. Rhetoric involves the use of various strategies, including appeals to ethos, pathos, and logos, as well as the use of rhetorical devices such as metaphor, simile, and hyperbole.
- What is “rhetoric”?
- What is “audience”?
- How do I access my audience’s needs and expectations?
- How do I tailor my writing for my audience?
- What is “credibility”?
- How do I use “you” strategically?
- What is a “logical argument”?
- How do I develop my argument?
- How do I address counterarguments?
- What is “figurative language”?
- What are “generalizations” and “stereotypes”?
- What is “inclusive language”?
- What is “hyperbole”?
Structural Questions
The basic structural elements of college essay writing are the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. The introduction should provide background information and a clear thesis statement. Body paragraphs should include supporting evidence and analysis of the thesis. The conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay and restate the thesis in a new way.
- How should an essay be organized?
- How do I write a strong title?
- How do I craft a strong opening sentence?
- What is an introduction of an essay?
- What is a “thesis statement”?
- What is the body of an essay?
- What is the conclusion of an essay?
- What is a “call to action” and how do I use one?
- What is a “topic sentence”?
- What is “unity”?
- What is “point of view”?
- What are “transitions”?
Mechanics Questions
Mechanics refers to the technical aspects of writing, such as spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and formatting. These details give writing clarity, readability, and professionalism. These questions do not cover all mechanical considerations, but those that seem to plague college writers, like proper conventions.
- How do I know when I need to use a comma?
- What is a “comma splice”?
- Is a comma really necessary after the last element in a list of three or more?
- How do I use a semicolon?
- How do possessives differ from plurals?
- What tense do I use when writing about texts?
- How do I present titles of poems, novels, etc. in my essay?
Stylistic Questions
Style refers to the way a writer uses language to convey his or her ideas and express his or her personality. Style encompasses the writer’s choice of words, sentence structure, tone, and even punctuation. A writer’s style can be formal, informal, persuasive, narrative, descriptive, or any combination of these. It is what makes a writer’s work unique and identifiable. Good style is clear, concise, and appropriate for the audience and purpose of the writing.
- What is “style” and how can I make it more effective?
- What is “interesting detail” and how do I use it?
- What is “vague/weak” language and how do I avoid it?
- What is “point of view”?
- What is “tone”?
- What is wrong with “it” and “this”?
- What is the difference between “passive” and “active” voice?
- What is “word choice”?
- What is an “awkward sentence”?
- What is “redundancy”? Is it the same as “repetition”?
- What is “wordiness”?
- When is something “clichéd” or “trite”?
Revision and Editing Questions
Copyediting and revision are crucial components in composition. When you think you’re finished writing, it’s time to really get to work.
- What is “editing” and “revision”?
- What are some basic editing and revision strategies for new writers?
- What is “proofreading”?
- What does it mean to “reflect” on my writing?
Reading Questions
When we read a text critically, we analyze, evaluate, and interpret. Analysis involves breaking down a text or subject matter into its component parts and examining how those parts work together to create meaning. Evaluation involves making a judgment or assessment about the value or quality of a text or subject matter. Interpretation involves examining a text or subject matter and offering an explanation or understanding of its meaning.
Research Questions
Literary critic Christopher Hitchens once quipped: “That which can be asserted without evidence can be dismissed without evidence.” Supporting your essay with evidence, examples, and research increases your credibility and makes your argument more persuasive. Strong research is essential to most college writing.
- What is research and why is it important?
- How do I support my argument?
- How do I use strong evidence and examples?
- What are “primary sources” and how do I use them?
- What are “secondary sources” and how do I use them?
- How do I find strong, credible sources?
- What is “synthesis” and why is it important?
- Can I cite Wikipedia or Twitter in my essay?
- How do I integrate quotations and paraphrases?
- How do I correctly cite my sources?
- What is plagiarism and how can I avoid it?
- What’s the best way to take research notes?
- How do I cite a source using MLA citation style?
Literature Questions
When writing about literature, we are involved in a process called literary criticism. This involves careful readings of literary texts that form the basis of analysis and interpretation. Learning these skills is crucial for success in higher education.
- I’m not an English major: why should I write about literature?
- How do I begin writing about literature?
- What are the basics of literary analysis?
- What are the basics of interpreting a literary text?
- What are the conventions and vocabulary necessary for writing about literature?
- What is “close reading”?
- What is “narrative”?
- What is “theme”?
- What is “simile” and “metaphor”?
- What is “symbolism”?
- What is “allusion”?
- How do I write strong essay exam answers?
- How do I write strong exam short answers?
Literary Interpretation Questions
- What is “reader response”?
- What is a “cultural” approach to literature?
- What is a “deconstructive” approach to literature?
- What is an “ethical” approach to literature?
- What is a “feminist” approach to literature?
- What is a “formalist” approach to literature?
- What is a “Marxist” approach to literature?
- What is a “new critical” approach to literature?
- What is a “new historical” approach to literature?
- What is a “post-colonial” approach to literature?
- What is a “psychoanalytical” approach to literature?
Digital Writing Questions
Writing for digital media involves crafting content tailored for consumption on various digital platforms, such as websites, social media, blogs, and mobile apps. This form of communication requires a combination of traditional writing skills and an understanding of digital tools and trends. The goal is to create clear, concise, and engaging content that resonates with users in the fast-paced, interconnected world of the digital age.
- What is “technical writing”?
- What is “digital writing”?
- What is “technical writing in the digital age”?
- Digital literacy requires what skills?
- Should digital writing use a particular style?
- How do digital “documents” differ from paper ones?
- What is “remediation”?
- What is “document design”?
- What is “user-centered design”?
- What is “responsive design”?
- What is “information architecture”?
- What is “usability”?
- What are personas?
- How do I build and maintain “credibility”?
- What is a “multimodal approach”?
- What is a “actionable content”?
- What is “scannability”?
- What is “accessibility”?
- What is “SEO” and how do I use it effectively?
- How do I cite sources in digital documents?
- How do I use links effectively?
Webmaster Questions
Understanding webmaster skills is of paramount importance to excel as a digital writer. These skills enable writers to manage and optimize their online content, ensuring it is user-friendly and accessible to a global audience. Proficiency in webmaster skills bridges the gap between content creation and publication, enhancing the impact of their documentation in today's web-centric world.
- What practical development skills should digital writers have?
- Why do I need a professional domain name?
- How do I register a domain name?
- Why and how do I get hosting for my domain?
- What is a “blog” and how do I use it?
| Written: 2002, 2022; Revised: 10-19-2023; Version: Beta 0.7 | 💬 |
