How to Use the Writing Lab
We don’t “fix papers.”
We give you tools to fix it yourself!
Our Promise to You: We don’t judge you or your writing.
Rough drafts are welcomed! (that’s why they’re called “rough” drafts).
Do you speak other languages? We know it’s hard when you “can’t find the words.”
We’ve gotten confused by professors’ assignments too!
We’ve also had life events create barriers to our learning.
Before Your Tutoring Session
- Know Your Deadlines: Come early in your writing process! Bring your draft and the assignment requirements (and due date!) so we can make best use of the time.
- Set Your Goals: What do you want to do: clarify your thesis, develop ideas, or incorporate citations? Clear goals will make the session more effective.
- Bring Your Materials: Have your assignment instructions draft ready to share with tutor: paper copy, on your laptop, or saved online. We have computers in you don’t have one.
During Your Tutoring Session
- Share Your Goals: Your tutor will listen actively and empathetically to your goals and discuss strategies to meet them.
- Read your document out loud: You or the tutor can read–it’s a great proofreading strategy and you will know if the reader understands your ideas.
- Be Open to Feedback: The tutor will share strengths and growth areas in your writing. Be open to new suggestions. Ex: You’re worried about grammar, but the tutor will focus more on thesis or support details first.
- Ask Questions: There is no such thing as a bad question, we welcome them!
- Respond to Our Questions: Your answers to tutor questions can give you more clarity and can guide revisisions.
- Take Notes: Write down suggested feedback or skills learned (preferably by hand) to better remember them.
- Consider a Follow-Up: If needed, plan another session before your due date.
After Your Tutoring Session
- Make Time to Revise: Set aside time to make changes before the final draft is due.
- Review and Apply: Go over your notes, take the Next Steps, and use resources or practice skills learned.
- Check with Your Professor: If questions arose that tutor can not address.
Last Updated March 17, 2025
