BRAINSTORMING

· Most of the time, we have more than one topic in mind when assigned an essay. Since we like each of them, our choice of which to focus on in the paper is a difficult one. To make the selection process easier we can brainstorm each topic, one at a time, and see--literally see on the paper in front of us--which topic has the most substance to it.

· To begin brainstorming, use only one topic at a time.

· Next, give yourself a specific time period in which to storm ideas down on paper. For a 300-500-word essay, two minutes should suffice.

· Then, on a blank sheet of paper place as many ideas on your topic as you can think of within the two minutes. Do not stop to edit or assess; simply put down whatever comes to your mind. Also, do not worry about form; write words, phrases, or clauses--however the idea comes to you.

· At the end of the two minutes, put down your pencil or pen (or crayon!) and walk away. When you return refreshed, look over what you have written. Some ideas will be gems and others will be stinkers--so what?! Physically cross out the ones you will not use, put a (?) by any that have possibility, and put a (*) by those that have merit.

· At this point copy the remaining ideas on the other side of the paper and begin separating the wheat from the chaff, the diamonds from the rough.

· What remains will be the support you will use in the essay. Now what you need to do is to number these ideas in order of importance and make an outline (follow this LINK to the outline page).

· If you have multiple topics from which to choose, brainstorm each idea separately--2 minutes each. Then compare the quantity and quality of ideas under each topic--your decision should be obvious: the "meatier" or "juicier" topic (i.e., the one with the longest and strongest list) will be the one to write on, simply because you have the most to say about it.