Rough Draft
Definition | Methods
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What is a rough draft?
The rough draft is typically the second step in the
writing process. Once prewriting is completed, the writer draws on
these ideas to create a written work. His or her ideas are composed
on paper, focusing on content rather than grammar and mechanics.
How do I write a rough
draft?
When writing a rough draft, the main focus is to turn your
ideas into sentences and paragraphs. Try to begin
your work by writing an introduction, then proceed through each main
point one at a time, adding details to support the main points you
gathered during prewriting. Remember that your rough draft is just
that, rough. Don't worry if you feel like your ideas are somewhat
disconnected- you can go back and clean them up during the next step
in the writing process.
Tips for Writing
a Rough Draft

Microsoft Word Connections
Using Microsoft Word when writing your rough draft will save a lot
of time when you move on to the revise and edit steps in the writing
process. With word processing software, you will only need to type
your work once; you will then use editing functions to revise and
edit the parts of your writing that need changes. You can also use your Word generated prewriting diagram to help you when writing.
Print Microsoft Word Handbook for Rough Drafts
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