I’d say that I am a varied writer, especially when it comes down to what exactly I am writing about. If it’s a topic that deeply interests me, like historical conflicts or interpersonal issues between two characters, then you won’t be able to pull me off my computer or piece of paper. But if it’s a topic I find utterly boring, like logistics or economics, I just won’t be able to concentrate, which leaves me to put off the assignment until last minute, a habit of which I succumb to more often than I’d like to admit. It’s about the same when it comes to reading, too. After reading the articles in “Ten Ways to Think About Writing”, a couple points really resonated with me, yet there are a couple I feel like I also still need to work on, to really hone my skills as a writer. I find that I do tend to adjust my voice and tone depending on who my audience is, especially if the essay will be viewed by a stricter, by-the-book teacher, or a more relaxed, go-with-the-flow teacher. The latter of which, I find my writing style becomes a more “stream of consciousness” technique, rather than a planned and well thought out essay of which the stricter teacher would expect of me. I also make certain that I vary my paragraph flow and size as to not bore the reader with too large of a wall of text, or too small of an un-detailed sentence. However, I could work on describing details better, and in more depth. I tend to rush to the next paragraph quickly; to not lose the thoughts and points I have in my head before I formulate their existence on my paper. I am hoping this class will help me refine my writing skills by giving me the skills to become a truly great writer.

 When I was younger, I would read books all the time. I loved the Secret Garden, by Frances Hodgson Burnett. I also love the Harry Potter series, which is still a source of great nostalgia for me, despite my now adult brain realizing the issues and controversies with the Harry Potter books and JK Rowling herself. But I think these early exposures to literacy helped form my love for reading and writing that I still have today, even within the constraints of time in my busy life. When I find myself writing, it’s usually late at night, when I can’t sleep because my brain just won’t turn off. Then, I turn my lamp on and jump into my journal to document whatever it is that I’m thinking about. I personally prefer writing with a pencil and paper, but I can write on my computer, or even on my phone, if I feel so inclined. When I read, I usually do so during a period of research or a hyper fixation on a random topic that interests me. During this semester, I would like to work on better organizing my thoughts into easily readable paragraphs and trying to prevent my “stream of consciousness” tendencies. I can’t wait to dive into the complexities of writing!