The Writing Company · The Mayor

Write to explain

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Step 1 · Pick a prompt

Pick one prompt. You are the guide, so pick a trip you can actually lead.

Step 2 · Plan it

Plan first. Fill in the four parts of the Tour in short notes. A good route on paper is a trip the reader can take.

Where we are going (my topic, in one sentence)

The stops, in order (at least three)

What to notice at each stop (one line each)

Leave them knowing the way (my ending)

Step 3 · Pick one goal

One goal, chosen before you write, beats ten wishes after. Pick exactly one.

After you write, look for the proof in your own sentences.

Step 4 · Write your explanation

Keep your stops in order, and pour it on where the reader needs more. A good guide never skips a stop and never doubles back.

Linking words you can borrow: firstnextbecauseso thatfinallyuntil

Step 5 · Sum it up

One more thing, once you have written. One sentence: what will your reader be able to do or understand now that they could not before? If your explanation and your sentence disagree, believe the sentence.

Step 6 · Before you turn it in

Read your explanation once, out loud if you can. Then check.

My topic is clear in one sentence.
My steps or details are in an order a reader can follow.
Each step says what to notice or why it matters.
A reader who did not know this could follow it without me.
My ending leaves the reader knowing how to do it.
I used linking words so the reader never loses the trail.
My sentences vary, and my words are exact.

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