English majors spend as much time writing as they do reading. Writing assignments are usually diverse and based on the various writing styles. Writing also requires the student to brainstorm and explore different ideas upon which to write about. This may not be an easy task for students who struggle with brainstorming skills. There are pre-writing strategies that can help a student organize, explore, and plan ideas. One of them requires the use of idea organizers. Understanding online masters in education will take you one step closer towards your career.

When brainstorming, exploring, and organizing information, you may want to consider using clusters or webs. A cluster takes a central idea and then details are pulled from that idea. Clusters are usually in a circle graph; the main topic is encased in the center circle. From there, other circles, filled with detailed information about the main topic, are linked to the center circle. Additional circles are added, inclusive of details, about preceding circles.

Inverted triangles can help you narrow down topics that are too general. The organization format is in the form of an upside down triangle. The triangle includes four or five sections, with the main, broad topic at the top section. The second line sub-topic is derived from the main topic, while he third topic is derived from the sub-topic above, and so on. This form of organization can keep going until you get a focused topic. Take advantage of online schools to realize your dreams.

If you are writing a story, story maps help you gather details about various elements of story, including setting, characters, and the plot. The story map diagram starts with the name of the story at the top, circled. Lines from the circle are linked to three-square boxes below it – one for notes on setting, one for plot/conflict, and one for characters. The three boxes are linked to a rectangular box, which includes information about the various events within the story. This box is connected to the outcome/resolution box.

Observation charts organize sensory details. The five-column chart is used to list details that are associated with the five senses. This information helps when writing compositions that require a lot of imagery like short stores, plays, and other dramatic pieces. List details for your senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell) in separate columns. Organizing imagery information, by way of observation charts, helps the writer bring to life visual imagery in a story.

Comparing and contrasting two ideas can be organized by using T-charts. You can use T-charts to list details about a pair of people, places, or things. They are also used to show two sides of an argument or contrasting two points of views. The T-chart looks like the letter, “T” with subjects listed on the left and right sections. The columns hold detailed information about each subject.

Ideas that pertain to writing a speech or debate or formulating convincing arguments can be organized using persuasion maps. A goal, or action you want the audience to take, is written inside a square box. The goal box is linked to three separate boxes, whereby three different reasons why your audience should take action are listed in each box. Each of the “reason” boxes are linked to three boxes that details examples and/or facts that elaborate your reasons.

Idea organization is a valuable means to explore topics and narrow down ideas to help you plan your writing. If you find yourself confused about how to organize your ideas or struggling to select a main topic or idea, consider using graphic idea organizers as part of the writing process. Obtain online degrees to enter the workforce sooner. Find online universities that work around your schedule.