Top-Down Writing Guide
Outline the Big Picture
This initial step involves conceptualizing the overall message or argument you want to convey. It’s about understanding your purpose for writing and the key message you want your readers to take away. Creating an outline at this stage helps organize thoughts and ensures all parts of the writing serve the main objective.
What is the central message or argument you wish to convey in your paper? What is your purpose for writing, and what do you want your readers to remember?
Construct the Main Sections
Here, you break down the outline into manageable chunks, each representing a core component of your argument or narrative. These sections are like chapters in a book, where each one builds upon the other to strengthen the overall piece. It’s important to ensure that each section flows logically into the next, maintaining coherence throughout the writing.
What are the main components of your argument or narrative? How will each section build upon the other to strengthen your paper?
Add Details
Once the framework is set, you start adding substance by elaborating on each section with supporting details, evidence, and analysis. This is akin to filling a house with furniture and amenities – it’s what makes the structure functional and livable. The details should be relevant and enrich the section, providing depth and clarity to your points.
What supporting details, evidence, and analysis will you add to each section?
Refine and Decorate
The final touches involve revising and editing your work to enhance readability and impact. This could include choosing more precise words, varying sentence structure, and correcting grammar and spelling errors. Just as you would decorate a house to make it aesthetically pleasing, this step polishes your writing to make it engaging and enjoyable for the reader.