Students who have trouble expressing themselves through writing can find many aspects of school frustrating, from homework assignments to note-taking in class to tests. Writing troubles can make many subjects difficult for the student since so many subjects require essays or short answers. Finding ways to cope with writing problems are very important for future student success.

Students must learn that good writing isn’t entirely dependent on grammar skills. Many students with writing disabilities can get frustrated when they see so many red marks on their papers. While mechanical skills are important to writing, teachers must help the students understand that writing is also about understanding concepts. Making this connection early in a students’ writing assessment is key to future improvements.

Students should also have a broader audience in mind for their writing. Most school writing is done with one person in mind – the teacher. Teachers must make an effort to help students understand that writing is important in many aspects of the real world, especially in work environments. Helping students understand real-world implications of writing can help them take writing more seriously instead of giving up in frustration.

Students must also understand that writing is a process and should not be done at the last minute. Many college professors see students who have great potential, but don’t properly plan their writing. Learning the writing process early can help students who struggle with writing develop good habits for approaching their essays. This starts with brainstorming, drafting, and ultimately writing and revising. If students learn these good habits early enough, they’ll spend more time thinking about the work and planning the essay and less time frustrated over a rushed assignment.

Working to develop good writing skills takes patience, but the benefits will help students throughout their academic career. They’ll feel more confident and prepared to take on assignments in all of their subject areas.