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Resources for Writing

These resources were collected or created by the Tutors at the Kent State University Writing Commons.

Organizing/Starting to Write

Assignment Calculator
Are you prone to procrastination or not sure where to start with your paper? Put in your due dates and assignment type into this calculator and it will give you a detailed calendar of the steps you need to complete your paper and smaller due dates to finish different parts of the project. Created by the University of Minnesota.
Using Outlines
This resource explains how to create both an informal and formal outline before you draft your paper.
Using Thesis Statements
This resource explains what a thesis statement is, the difference between a working thesis and a final thesis, and the difference between your topic and your argument.
Introductions
Strategies for writing an effective introduction, and some examples of less effective introductions.
UNC Chapel Hill
Paragraphing
Explains how to write a cohesive paragraph, and also talks about topic sentences, and paragraph breaks.
Texas A&M
Creating Parallelism
This resource explains creating paralellism insentences and lists.
Summarizing and Paraphrasing Strategies
This resource persents detailed strategies for both summarizing and paraphrasing your resources
Transitions
This resource describes ways to create transitions in your writing. Created by hte University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Conclusions
Strategies for writing an effective conclusion and some suggestions on what to avoid.
UNC Chapel Hill
Using Quotations
When and how to quote, and how to emphasize a quote.
UNC Chapel Hill
Reverse Outlining
Some people like to organize their writing after they create a rough draft. If that sounds like you, try this technique to organize your work.
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Created by the University of Wisconsin-Madison Writing Center.

Learning about Specific Genres of Essay Writing

Argumentative Essays
Goes over tips for writing an argumentative essay, as well as the different parts of the essay.
Purdue OWL
Cause and Effect Essays
Explains what a cause and effect essay is, what it looks like in practice, and tips to help you write it.
Excelsior Online Writing Lab
Compare and Contrast Essays
Has tips to help you brainstorm how the topics for your essay are similar and different, along with tips on how to organize and write your compare and contrast essay.
UNC Chapel Hill

Writing References

Writer's Handbook
Produced by the Writing Center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, this site offers an excellent collection of concise instructional materials for university students and instructors.
Poetry Writing Help and Tips
Guide with books on poetry and resources on meter, rhyme, syntax, diction, and more.