This provides the essay with a solid structure upon which to build the paragraphs. The writer is now ready to begin the first draft of the essay. When the first draft has been completed, the writer is ready to begin the first of several revisions. These are important, as the writing process involves much more than only creating the first draft (Princeton Writing Program). The first revision focuses on eradicating any minor grammatical mistakes. During this revision, the writer uses her considerable expertise in diction and expression to enhance the essay. She also uses her proofreading skills in order to correct any minor grammatical mistakes.

The second revision focuses on general cohesiveness. Here the writer identifies any further shortcomings in terms of connections between paragraphs, sentences, and between the topic sentences and thesis statement. The introductory paragraph is edited for the way in which it introduces the topic, and for its connection to the rest of the essay. Connective words and sentences are inserted where necessary.

The third revision focuses on length and wordiness. For this, the writer follows an outside-in approach. First, the length of the essay itself is checked for appropriateness in terms of the subject matter and assignment requirements. After this, each paragraph is checked. If any sentences or statements appear redundant, these are eliminated. Paragraphs are also fine-tuned in terms of expressive excellence and cohesion. Finally, sentences are checked for consistency in length and appropriate expression. Here the focus is specifically on the necessity of the words comprising...

If sentences appear long or difficult to read, they are adjusted accordingly.
The fourth and final revision will focus on the essay as a whole. In this step, the writer reads through her work critically, determining whether the essay flows as planned. Any further adjustments are made according to her estimations of necessity.

By following the above steps, the writer ensures that her weaknesses and challenges are addressed from the planning stages of her writing. Going through various revisions ensures that she identifies both major and minor weaknesses in her writing. The above therefore appears to be a viable plan not only to eliminate current challenges and create stronger writing, but also to enhance existing strengths. During her revisions, the writer for example uses her talent for diction and expression to enhance her writing while also eliminating any weaknesses.

The plan is evidence that the writer understands the importance of both planning and revision in optimizing the writing process. When beginning their careers, few students understand that the greatest part of writing is not the writing itself, but the actions that occur before and after the first draft (Princeton Writing Program).

Sources

Calder, Alan. "Mind Mapping." James Cook University, 1999-2006.

Princeton Writing Program. "Revision." 1999. http://web.princeton.edu/sites/writing/Writing_Center/handouts/html/Revision.htm

Waid, Julie Ann. "Five Ways to Strengthen your Business Writing." 2007. http://www.eslteachersboard.com/cgi-bin/writing/index.pl-noframes;read=73