FAQ - Online Writing Consultations
What can an online writing consultation do for me?
At the Online Academic Support Center, we believe that writers need readers. Why? Because writers write for readers. When you write, you participate in a conversation—a conversation between you and your reader. But unlike other kinds of conversations, your reader usually won’t have the opportunity to ask for more explanation, clarify meanings of words, or point out gaps in your logic. Working with an online writing consultant helps you identify potential questions about your text so you can make it clearer and more convincing—before you present your finished work to your audience.
More specifically, if you’re uncertain about how to begin, we can help you understand your assignment and brainstorm. If you have ideas but can’t get started, we can help you get some words on paper and make a plan. If you have a specific question about grammar or punctuation, we can help you find the answer. If you only want to talk through your ideas and test their logic or clarity, we’re excited about discussing them with you.
What is an online writing consultation?
An Online consultation offers you the opportunity to share your developing text with a trained reader. It’s a chance for you to share your writing with someone else and to get answers to questions that often trouble writers: “Does this idea make sense?” “Does my paper flow alright?” “Do I have enough support for this point?”
What exactly happens during an online consultation?
We don’t have a checklist of tasks to accomplish in each consultation; rather, we tailor each meeting to our online clients’ individual needs. When you submit your text to an online writing consultant, you should include a list of questions or concerns you have about your work. Your writing consultant will review your text and respond to the specific questions you present. In addition, your writing consultant will direct you to additional online support materials that will help you develop your critical thinking, analysis, and, composition skills.
Will my online writing consultant proofread my paper?
We can’t proofread your paper for you because our goal is not simply to help you turn in a better paper; it’s to help you become a better writer. If we proofread your paper, you won’t learn how to do that job on your own. Instead, we will help you acquire the skills that you need to proofread your paper for yourself. We will certainly answer any questions you have; we can help you get started proofreading and guide you through the process. In the end, though, proofreading is up to you.
When is an online writing consultant available?
Your online writing consultant is available 24/7. You can submit your draft or questions to an online writing consultant anytime during the week. Please allow 24 hours for your online consultant to respond to your inquiry.
How do I schedule an online writing consultation?
Find and select the online writing consultant that you wish to use. Attach your developing draft as a Word document in an email to your writing consultant. In your email, you should carefully list the questions or concerns you have about your draft. Please allow 24 hours for your consultant to respond.
How many online writing consultations may I have per week?
You may request 2 online consultations per week.
Will my professor know that I worked with an online writing consultant?
Yes. We will notify your instructor that you completed an online writing consultation. Throughout the semester, your instructor may encourage or ask you to work with an online consultant as well.
Are online writing consultations only for class assignments?
Yes. You should only submit a request for assistance for writing you are completing in one of your courses at Bryan College.
