Writing Center FAQ's
These Frequently Asked Questions were compiled by Mary Ann Peters, April 2004. You may download the entire set of questions as a single document [pdf, 58 KB] or select individual questions from the list below.
Starting, Organizing, and Writing How do I get started? How do I write an effective thesis statement? How do I organize my ideas? How do I make a formal outline? How do I put all my notes together? How do I overcome writer's block? What makes an effective written argument?
Revising, Editing, and Proofreading How do I revise my paper? How do I edit my paper? How do I proofread my paper?
Punctuation, Sentence Structure, Grammar, and Numbers How do I use the comma? How do I avoid comma splices? How do I use the semicolon and colon? How do I avoid the most common pronoun mistake? How do I avoid the most common subject-verb mistake? When do I spell out numbers?
Using Resources How do I avoid plagiarizing? How do I use direct quotations? How do I find sources on the Web? How do I document electronic sources?
Essay Exams How do I take an essay exam?