Being able to write quickly is undeniably a sought after skill. It allows us to save a lot of time which can be particularly helpful when writing a test. Although everyone wants to be able to write as rapidly as possible, many people find it very difficult to write any faster than they already do. The problems most people have is that they spend to much time worrying about the quality of their writing, how the reader will perceive your writing, and difficulties when organizing information or thoughts. Thankfully, these are obstacles that can be avoided with these tips!
1.Notes, notes, notes
When faced with a deadline for your writing, it’s not uncommon for the writer to just start writing their assignment. This, although occasionally less time demanding, is not the best way to maximize your writing. Getting down notes of any kind will greatly increase your ability to have ideas flow from one to the other. With the information in front of you, the pressure to make your first attempt at ideas perfect and allows for the writer to gain some perspective on what they are trying to convey in their piece.
2. Research
This may seem similar to the previous point however, research is very important when writing and deserves extra attention. The key is to do your research BEFORE you begin to write as trying to multitask will simultaneously slow down both processes. Find as much information as you feel you need before you sit down to right, but be sure to keep your resources on hand as you may require additional information. By doing the majority of your research first, you reduce the risk of begin distracted by your surrounding and the resources you are gather from (especially the internet).
3. Distractions be gone!
In order to write quickly, you need to get into a good writing groove or “get into the zone”. This will allow you flow much more effectively. The key to this is to not get distracted. Start of by eliminating all distractions in your immediate vicinity. That means closing all other browser pages on your computer, turning off your cell phone, shutting off the television, and any other attention grabbing sources. The next step is to eliminate potential future distractions before they even happen. This could mean letting your family, peers, or coworkers know that you will be unavailable to talk for the duration of your writing period or even just closing your door and putting a sign on it informing anyone who reads it that you are busy and cannot be disturbed.
4. 3, 2, 1, go!
Now that you have your notes, research, and are free of distractions, get to it! Start writing while being sure to let your words just flow onto the paper or screen. The key here is to just write and get your ideas out there. Don’t worry about how it sounds, structure, or how it comes across to the reader. This time is meant for writing and that alone should be your only concern.. Don’t concern yourself with editing as you write, You can always revise your work later.
5. Be nice to yourself
It’s important not to be so hard on yourself when writing. Even if you aren’t going as fast as you’d like, beating yourself up won’t speed you up. Just remember that writing is not as simple as just putting words on paper; it’s a difficult process that professionals even struggle with from time to time. If you find yourself frustrated or panicked, just take a step back (literally) and just put what you are doing into perspective and remind yourself that this is difficult and you shouldn’t feel bad about taking a little longer than you had intended. Give yourself a bit more time and get back to it.
This article was written for you by Troy, one of the tutors with Test Prep Academy.