Taking ENG301 was once of the most practical courses I have taken in the years of studying at the University of British Columbia. I have always struggled with limited vocabulary choices, use of passive voice, overuse of lengthy words/phrases, and lack of coherence in writing. I had many areas to improve and strengthen my writing styles.
Peer reviewing was the most significant process out of all. At the beginning of the course, I felt quite uncomfortable showing others my writing. I was not confident in my own writing styles because I knew I had lots of weakness with English being my second language. However, the feedbacks and suggestions from peer reviewers/team members allowed me to read my writing objectively and consider different factors of the audience. Thus, getting feedback enhances my ability to reach a wide audience.
I was also afraid to criticize other people’s writings, but the process rather encouraged me to reflect back on my own work. I made sure my work conveys what I intend to deliver so that the readers understand the process well enough to replicate it themselves. Overall, editing someone else’s work was one of the best ways to learn how to edit my own.
One of the most effective writing techniques I have acquired was writing with YOU-attitude. Firstly, the writing technique establishes a respectful relationship between the reader and the writer. Secondly, it allows you to look at a situation from the reader’s perspective and emphasize what the reader wants to know.
To conclude, I would like to give thanks to Dr. Patterson who provided informative guidelines that enhanced my personal, academic, and professional growth.