Cordell Taylor

Professor Howard Lytle

RHET 1312
02/04/16
Reading Response To Beth L. Hewett
In drafting and revising, my approach is much different than Hewett's methods. When I receive a
writing assignment, I begin writing immediately. In a way it is similar to brainstorming, because I simply
let my thoughts guide my writing as they appear. However they take the format of several paragraphs (a
rough/zero draft) in place of a vague list. I see no reason to wait until later to check for things so simple as
sentence structure, grammar, punctuation, etc. These elements are basic, crucial, and should be
incorporated into any rhetoric indefinitely. Waiting until later results in writing 2,000 words to produce a
250 word essay, and is a waste of time and effort. The one element that I do save for last, is the
organization of these thoughts. After completing my zero draft I rearrange the paragraphs, the sentences
within them, and change the structure of these sentences accordingly. I may add ideas sparked by my
revision process. Most writers, including Hewett, seem to look down on anything other than
brainstorming and multiple drafts. The bottom line is that what I developed for myself works for me.
As far as feedback from readers, of course I am open to and will always consider any suggestions.
In giving feedback, I've learned not to focus so much on small errors, but more on ideas that are unclear
or that I would like more details about. Next time I give feedback I wont be as picky with spelling and
sentence structure, and concentrate instead on what would do more for me as a reader.

Works Cited
Hewett, Beth From Topic to Presentation: Making Choices to Develop Your Writing 2010