Strategies for improving the writing process and implications for design of support tools Master Thesis

The writing process is a demanding and complex task. Many problems are experienced in the initial stages of the writing process. At the same time, the writing process is considerably influenced by technologies. In order to understand how support tools can improve the writing process, this thesis investigates literature on the writing process, writing problems, and writing strategies, and discusses implications for system design. According to the literature findings in this thesis, the writing process can be improved by supporting the planning process, the writer’s expressive goals, and affective aspects of the writing process. Support tools should integrate generating, organizing, and explorative strategies (such as brainstorming, keeping a journal, nutshelling, and conceptual mapping) and establish better flow routines (implement a clear and logical process structure, propose a specific order of the writing strategies, separate conflicting writing goals, and provide feedback). The system prototype proposed in this thesis illustrates how to implement these strategies in computer-supported writing tools. It is based on journal interface and implements five views (Brainstorm, Nutshell, Mind Map, Outline, and Draft). The system enables the writer to apply fluently different writing strategies, to maintain focus on the content of the writing material, and to develop the writing topic from brainstorming notes to the outlined draft text. 1 This thesis corresponds to 20 weeks of full-time work. Martin Rimka Strategies for improving the writing process and 2004-10-20 implications for design of support tools