1. Idea Generation & Refinement:
* Brainstorming: Generating a plethora of ideas, even if they seem unrelated, is crucial for finding the core concept. Techniques like freewriting, mind mapping, or using prompts can help.
* Focusing: After brainstorming, you need to identify the most promising idea and refine it. This involves asking questions like: What is the central theme? What message do I want to convey? What is the purpose of this writing?
* Research: Depending on the topic, you might need to gather information, conduct interviews, or explore relevant resources to solidify your understanding and support your ideas.
2. Structure & Organization:
* Outline: A clear outline provides a framework for your writing, ensuring logical flow and coherence. It helps you organize your thoughts into a clear beginning, middle, and end.
* Paragraphing: Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea and support it with evidence and examples. Transitions between paragraphs are essential to maintain the flow of thought.
* Logical Sequencing: Ideas should be presented in a logical order, making it easy for the reader to follow your reasoning.
3. Language & Style:
* Vocabulary & Diction: Choose words that are precise, vivid, and appropriate for your audience and purpose.
* Sentence Structure: Vary sentence length and structure to avoid monotony and create rhythm.
* Clarity & Conciseness: Write in clear, concise language, avoiding jargon and unnecessary embellishment.
4. Revision & Editing:
* Proofreading: Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
* Editing for Clarity: Read your work aloud to identify areas where meaning is unclear or sentences are awkward.
* Feedback: Seek feedback from others to get an objective perspective on your writing.
It's also important to:
* Know Your Audience: Consider who you are writing for and tailor your language and style accordingly.
* Define Your Purpose: What is the goal of your writing? Is it to inform, persuade, entertain, or something else?
* Be Patient: Writing is a process, and it takes time to develop your skills. Don't be discouraged if your first drafts aren't perfect.
Instead of just two "basic skills," it's more accurate to think of writing as a multi-faceted skill that requires practice, dedication, and a willingness to learn.