Writing Processes

To successfully manage a writing project, experts need to fully understand the process involved. Successful writers never view drafting as the sum total of the writing process. Dr. Kim highlights the principles behind the process used by plain language consultants. The principles are the focus of practice in The Expert’s Writing Toolkit, an e-learning course. A writer can only ensure readers get what they need by planning before they draft. Successful writers always incorporate evaluation. A writer ensures the information readers need is findable by evaluating their drafted message. A writer ensures readers understand and can use information by evaluating what draft messages. Sometimes that means interactive testing with representative readers. Other times it means review by internal stakeholders and the use of editing tools or technology. Finally,  a writer uses the results of evaluation to identify potential issues and revise their drafts. The ultimate focus on readers is why the process for writing high quality messages requires so many activities before and after drafting a message. It’s also why high quality messages require more than a single writer. Writing collaboration is the topic in another video.  The Toolkit is in the testing phase, with plans for a full release in 2024. Visit proswrite.com/toolkit/ to learn more.