(of a traditional essay-type book report)

Now that you've talked about the book a bit, it's time to fill in all the pieces.

Open your pre-outline in your word processor. Add any other ideas you got from your "chat" about the book.

If you get stuck trying to think of a way to start your writing, first type what happened in the book and what you did and didn't like about it. Just follow your pre-outline. Then go back and add an introduction.

It helps if you say what you are going to type first and then type it. Read it out loud from the computer screen. If it doesn't sound right, fix it.

If you suffer from writer's block and you just don't know what to write, reread sections of the book. Use one of your favorite quotes or passages from the book to help you get started.

When you're done, you are ready for some tips for revising.