Writing Center FAQ's

I am a good writer. Why should I go to the Center?

Since two heads are better than one, even experienced writers benefit from talking with our trained peer readers, especially those in the field. In the 2011-2012 academic year, we held over 2,700 face-to-face conferences, and evaluations indicated widespread satisfaction.

Can I drop off my paper to be corrected?

No. WAs will assist you and make suggestions for improvement, but they will not do the work for you. The Writing Center is built around conversations - not copyediting. That's because good writing is mostly just clear thinking. It often helps to verbalize your plans before returning to the page.

My professor required the entire class to come to the Center. Why?

Professors like to read papers with clear, organized ideas. Also, some students may need assistance understanding particular grammar concerns.

I do not even understand the assignment. What should I do?

Students can come in at any hitch in the writing process: from not understanding the assignment, to needing a brainstorming partner, to desiring better strategies for a final draft. Bring the professor's assignment instructions to your session.

What should I do if I cannot schedule a conference with the Writing Assistant for the discipline of the assignment?

Any WA at the Writing Center should be able to assist you, as all have had training in writing across the disciplines. But if you want a WA most familiar with the discipline, try emailing the WA, as special conference times may sometimes be arranged.

I have one question about grammar, style, or mechanics. Should I sign up for a conference?

No. For small, simple questions of grammar or style e-mail our hotline (writing@up.edu). Allow 24 hours during the school week for a response.

What if all online appointment slots are full?

Email the hotline (writing@up.edu) with your availability & the course the assignment is from, and a WA will try to get back to you with a possible alternate meeting time.