Category: Writing

A Powerful Productivity Tool: A Notebook

Published on by Sandy Davis

The Surprising Productivity Power of a Paper Notebook

Now that the weather has cooled off, I have taken to writing outside at work. For those of you who don’t know, I work at a university, and there are plenty of tables and benches and trees. I got the advice years ago from Cal Newport that changing up your environment can make you more productive, and writing outside can really help me focus.

But that’s another post. What I want to write about today is that what I’ve noticed has an impact on my productivity more than writing outside is writing in a paper notebook. For me, writing in a notbeook with no digitial tools or devices on hand, can exponentially increase my producvity.

In a world filled with digital productivity tools, the humble paper notebook might seem old-fashioned. Yet many creators, professionals, and thinkers continue to swear by it for good reason. A notebook isn’t just a place to store notes; it’s a tool for focus, creativity, and clarity. Writing by hand slows you down in the best possible way, helping you process ideas more deeply and stay present in your work.

Thinking Better by Writing Slower

One of the biggest advantages of a paper notebook is the way it engages your brain. When you write by hand, you activate more areas of the brain responsible for memory and comprehension. This deeper cognitive processing helps you remember information longer and understand it more clearly. The slower pace also encourages you to think about what truly matters, forcing you to summarize ideas rather than transcribe them word for word.

Beyond memory, the act of writing fosters creativity. There’s something about the feel of pen on paper that invites experimentation: you can doodle in the margins, connect ideas with arrows, or sketch diagrams that might never happen on a screen. Paper offers the freedom of imperfection; you’re not deleting or formatting but exploring.

Clarity, Focus, and Emotional Calm

Using a paper notebook can transform how you manage your time and energy. Without the constant ping of notifications or temptation of open tabs, you’re free to focus on the task in front of you. Many people find that writing a to-do list or journaling by hand clears their mind, helping them prioritize and stay grounded throughout the day.

The physicality of a notebook also makes your progress visible. Watching the pages fill up is deeply satisfying and a tangible record of your thinking and effort. This visual reinforcement builds motivation and a sense of control. It also creates space for reflection: flipping through old pages can reveal patterns in your goals, habits, or moods that you might otherwise miss.

Why Analog Still Wins

A paper notebook makes you an active participant in your own thinking. Each word, line, and scribble reflects a decision, a moment of presence. Whether you’re mapping out a new idea, journaling through a problem, or just capturing the day’s to-dos, that act of writing by hand invites focus, creativity, and calm; it’s a reminder that sometimes, productivity is about slowing down.

Welcome to Spooky Season

Published on by Sandy Davis

Happy Fall Season Everyone!

Rainy season has begun, after a long, hot summer. I went shopping yesterday with my teenage daughter for Halloween costume supplies (I’ve always sewn my children’s halloween costumes, and this year my daughter wants to learn how to sew). We call this “spooky season,” and it’s a time to embrace the best qualities of fall, like the colors and cozy settings.

I did not get as much writing done this summer as I would have liked, and I’m working on trying to create a writing habit. I’ve done a lot of research and reading about the writing process (I also teach writing process at the university so this wasn’t a total waste of time, ha ha), and I plan to not only put these ideas into practice, but share them with my readers.

Strategies to get “unstuck” are useful for writers, teachers, and content creators. These include the usual strategies such as setting micro-goals and doing Pomodoros and word sprints, but also some new strategies I’ve learned such as changing up your environment (perfect for ppooky season), and also, something called “scaffolding your writing” which means writing ABOUT what you want to write, which takes the pressure off and helps build momentum.

Try these three tips for getting out of a writing rut:

  1. Change the context: this can mean changing your location (try writing in the library, in a different room, sitting on the floor or in bed if you usually write at a desk, or sitting at the kitchen table if you usually write on the couch, OR try a coffee shop or library.

    You can also change the context by writing in a different medium. Try writing long hand, or even writing on index cards or post-it notes. Buy a fun notebook for this purpose! 🙂

  2. Write about your writing: try sitting down and writing out what you want to write about. For example, I’m currently stuck on a scene that takes place in Ancient Greece, and I’m intimidated by the research required to get this right, so for now I’m going to write about how I want the scene to feel.

  3. Set a micro-goal. I need to write 2,000 words, but I’m going to start by just encouraging myself to write 250 words this weekend. You can even so smaller. Write a paragraph, or a sentence! Or, set a timer just 5 minutes and tell yourself you can stop writing after that.

Have a wonderful weekend and enjoy all that the fall season has to offer.

Discovery Writing & the Art of Process

Published on by Sandy Davis

As writers, we often think of our craft as a means to an end. Whether it’s finishing a novel, completing a research paper, or submitting a blog post, the focus is usually on the final product. But writing is so much more than the polished piece we send out into the world. It’s an act of discovery, reflection, and growth. Writing isn’t just about what we produce—it’s about the journey we take to get there.

This idea of writing to discover is at the heart of what makes the creative process so fulfilling. When we sit down with a blank page or screen, we may have only the faintest glimmer of an idea. It’s through the act of writing—the messy, circuitous, sometimes frustrating act—that we find clarity, have epiphanies, and learn not only about our subject but also about ourselves.

Writing as a Tool for Learning and Reflection

Writing is one of the most powerful tools we have for learning and reflection. When we write, we’re forced to slow down and engage deeply with our thoughts. This deliberate act allows us to explore ideas, connect seemingly unrelated concepts, and arrive at insights we might not have discovered otherwise.

For students, this process is especially valuable. In an age where instant answers are just a Google search away, writing teaches patience and critical thinking. It encourages them to wrestle with complex ideas and come to their own conclusions, fostering a deeper understanding of the material. Writing to learn isn’t about regurgitating facts; it’s about grappling with them until they become meaningful.

Embracing the Struggle

Let’s be honest: writing is hard. It’s messy, it’s unpredictable, and it rarely goes as planned. But that’s exactly why it’s so valuable. The struggle is where growth happens. When we’re stuck, when we don’t know what to say, when our ideas feel like an incoherent jumble—those are the moments when we’re forced to dig deep and push through. And in doing so, we often discover something unexpected and profound.

As teachers, it’s crucial to help students embrace this struggle. Too often, students are focused solely on the end result: the grade, the word count, the “perfect” essay. But if we can shift their mindset to see writing as a process of discovery, we can help them find joy and meaning in the act itself. The best writing doesn’t come from avoiding the struggle; it comes from working through it.

Why Shortcuts Undermine the Process

In today’s world, shortcuts are everywhere. AI tools can generate essays, rephrase sentences, and even mimic a writer’s voice. While these technologies can be helpful in certain contexts, they also risk undermining the very essence of writing. When we rely too heavily on shortcuts, we cheat ourselves out of the opportunity to think deeply, to wrestle with our ideas, and to grow as writers.

This isn’t to say that AI tools have no place in the writing process. Used thoughtfully, they can assist with tasks like brainstorming or editing. But they should never replace the creative act of writing itself. For students especially, it’s important to resist the temptation to outsource their thinking. Writing is about more than producing words on a page; it’s about learning, reflecting, and discovering who they are as thinkers and creators.

Writing to Have Epiphanies

Some of the most rewarding moments in writing come when we have a sudden epiphany—when an idea clicks into place or we see a connection we hadn’t noticed before. These moments can’t be forced, and they certainly can’t be generated by a machine. They arise organically, often when we’re deep in the flow of writing, fully engaged with our thoughts.

For me, these moments are a reminder of why I write. They’re a testament to the power of the process—a process that is often messy, frustrating, and slow but ultimately transformative. And it’s this transformative power that we, as teachers and writers, must nurture in ourselves and our students.

Encouraging Discovery Writing in the Classroom

So how can we foster this mindset of writing to discover in our classrooms? Here are a few strategies:

  1. Emphasize Process Over Product: Build time for brainstorming, drafting, and revising into your assignments. Celebrate progress and effort, not just the final submission.

  2. Incorporate Reflective Writing: Use journals, freewrites, and personal reflections to encourage students to explore their thoughts without worrying about perfection.

  3. Teach Writing as Thinking: Frame writing as a way to work through ideas, solve problems, and make connections. Encourage students to write even when they’re unsure of what they want to say.

  4. Model the Struggle: Share your own experiences with the challenges of writing. Let students see that struggle is a normal and necessary part of the process.

  5. Discuss the Role of AI Thoughtfully: Help students understand both the potential and the limitations of AI tools. Teach them to use technology as a support, not a substitute, for their own thinking and creativity.

Writing is a journey, not a destination. It’s about the process of discovering, learning, and growing—a process that is deeply human and profoundly rewarding. As writers and teachers, we have the privilege of engaging with this process and helping others do the same. So let’s embrace the messiness, celebrate the struggle, and remind ourselves that the true value of writing lies not in the product but in the act itself.

The Profound Benefits of Prioritizing the Learning Process over the Final Product

Published on by Sandy Davis

In a world driven by outcomes and results, there is a growing need to shift our perspective from the end goal to the journey itself. Focusing on the process of learning or creation, rather than fixating solely on the final product, brings about a multitude of benefits. This shift not only fosters a healthier learning environment but also helps to mitigate issues such as cheating, plagiarism, overreliance on AI, anxiety, and procrastination.

  1. Encourages Genuine Understanding: Prioritizing the learning process promotes a deeper and more genuine understanding of the subject matter. Instead of seeking shortcuts to achieve a polished final product, individuals engage with the material, grapple with challenges, and develop a comprehensive comprehension that goes beyond mere surface-level knowledge.

  2. Cultivates Critical Thinking Skills: The journey of learning involves navigating through complexities, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Focusing on the process encourages individuals to analyze information, connect concepts, and apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. This cultivation of critical thinking skills is essential for personal and professional growth.

  3. Reduces the Temptation of Cheating and Plagiarism: When emphasis is placed on the process, the need for shortcuts diminishes. Cheating and plagiarism often stem from a fixation on the final product, pushing individuals to cut corners to meet deadlines or expectations. By valuing the journey, the pressure to resort to unethical practices decreases, promoting academic integrity.

  4. Mitigates Overreliance on AI: While AI, such as ChatGPT, can be a valuable tool, an overreliance on it can hinder individual cognitive development. Focusing on the learning process allows individuals to grapple with challenges independently, enhancing their problem-solving skills and reducing dependency on external sources.

  5. Alleviates Anxiety: The pursuit of perfection in the final product can lead to heightened anxiety. Shifting the focus to the process eases the burden of unrealistic expectations, allowing individuals to embrace mistakes as opportunities for learning. This shift in mindset fosters a healthier relationship with learning and creativity.

  6. Combats Procrastination: The overwhelming pressure associated with producing a flawless final product can often lead to procrastination. By breaking down tasks into manageable steps and valuing the learning process, individuals are more likely to approach their work with a sense of curiosity and enthusiasm, reducing procrastination tendencies.

  7. Fosters a Growth Mindset: Emphasizing the learning process aligns with the principles of a growth mindset. Individuals with a growth mindset view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. This mindset shift promotes resilience, adaptability, and a positive attitude towards learning and creativity.

In a society that often prioritizes outcomes, it is crucial to recognize the profound benefits of focusing on the process of learning or creation. By embracing the journey, individuals can develop a deeper understanding, cultivate critical thinking skills, and mitigate issues such as cheating, plagiarism, overreliance on AI, anxiety, and procrastination. This shift not only enhances individual development but also contributes to the creation of a more ethical, resilient, and creative society.

NaNoWriMo is Coming!

Published on by Sandy Davis

If you’re not already familiar with NaNoWriMo, it stands for National Novel Writing Month, which takes place every November, in which writers from around the world try to write 50,000 words in 30 days. It’s incredibly fun and inspiring, and is a great way to get to know a community of writers.

As I was sitting down to think about what I might write this November (I have participated almost every year since it started in 1999), I realized that although November might seem a long way away, it’s really only 7 weeks away, which means it’s time to begin planning.

I have two courses that I’m going to run this year. One is a free mini course for prepping in October (you’re not supposed to start writing until November 1st, but there is plenty you can do ahead of time to get ready), and other is a 30-Day writing intensive that runs during the entire month of November.

If you think you might be interested in either course, be sure to follow this blog for updates. I’ll be posting more info about how to sign up for NaNoWriMo and the courses in the next week or so. I’ll also be sharing information on how to do NaNoWriMo with your students.

If you have any interest in writing, I highly encourage you to follow this blog for updates. My immersive writing courses will transform your writing and your creative process. This is an amazing experience, and all kinds of writers can participate. People have used this time to write novels, but also nonfiction books, ebooks, poetry, blog posts, essays, and screenplays.

Hope to see you here in November! Be sure to subscribe below for updates.

Tips for Engaging Any Audience

Published on by Sandy Davis

Engaging an audience, whether they are students in a classroom, an online audience for your content creation, or readers of your written work; is a skill that can make a significant difference in how effectively your message is received. It’s not just about delivering information; it’s about creating a connection and sparking interest. Here are some tips to help you engage your audience and keep them captivated:

  1. Know Your Audience:
    • Before you can engage your audience, you need to understand them. Consider their age, background, interests, and prior knowledge. Tailor your content and approach to meet their specific needs and expectations.
  2. Start with a Hook:
    • Begin your presentation or writing with a compelling hook. This could be an interesting fact, a thought-provoking question, a relevant anecdote, or a surprising statistic. A strong start grabs your audience’s attention right from the beginning.
  3. Tell a Story:
    • People love stories. Whether you’re teaching a lesson or writing an article, use storytelling to illustrate your points. Stories are relatable, memorable, and help to humanize your content.
  4. Use Visuals:
    • Visual aids like images, charts, and graphs can enhance understanding and engagement. Visuals break up text and make your content more visually appealing. Use them to support your message, not overwhelm it.
  5. Interact and Involve:
    • Engage your audience actively. Ask questions, encourage participation, and create opportunities for discussion or reflection. In the classroom, this might involve group activities or class discussions. In writing, it could mean including interactive elements like polls or quizzes.
  6. Be Passionate:
    • Enthusiasm is contagious. If you’re excited about your subject matter, your audience is more likely to be engaged. Show your passion through your tone of voice, body language, and choice of words.
  7. Keep It Clear and Concise:
    • Avoid jargon and complex language unless it’s necessary. Clear, concise communication is more likely to be understood and retained. Break down complex concepts into digestible pieces.
  8. Use Humor (Appropriately):
    • A well-timed joke or a touch of humor can lighten the mood and make your content more enjoyable. However, be mindful of your audience and the context, ensuring your humor is appropriate and doesn’t offend anyone.
  9. Connect Emotionally:
    • Appeal to your audience’s emotions. Share stories or examples that elicit empathy, excitement, or curiosity. Emotions help create a deeper connection with your audience.
  10. Be Responsive:
    • Listen to your audience’s feedback and adapt accordingly. If you notice confusion or disinterest, adjust your approach. Encourage questions and address concerns.
  11. Provide Value:
    • Ensure that your content is valuable and relevant to your audience. They should feel that they are gaining knowledge, insight, or entertainment from your presentation or writing.
  12. Practice, Practice, Practice:
    • Whether you’re giving a presentation or writing an article, practice is essential. Rehearse your delivery, refine your content, and be prepared to adapt as needed.

Engaging an audience takes effort and creativity, but the rewards are worth it. When you successfully capture your audience’s attention and keep them engaged, you not only convey your message effectively but also create a positive and memorable experience for your students or readers. So, go ahead and apply these tips to captivate and connect with your audience in your next endeavor.

The Power of Consistency: Unlocking Success in Content Creation

Published on by Sandy Davis

Content creators of all types (blogging, YouTube, social media, etc.) face the ever-evolving challenge of capturing and maintaining their audience’s attention. With countless blogs, videos, and social media posts competing for the spotlight, how can you stand out and build a loyal following? The answer lies in one key principle: consistency.

There are numerous benefits to consistency when creating content, and this should be the cornerstone of your content strategy.

Here’s why. Consistency helps with:

1. Establishing a Brand Identity

Consistency in content creation helps you build a strong brand identity. Whether you’re an individual blogger, a small business, or a large corporation, presenting a consistent image and message to your audience is essential. It creates a sense of trust and reliability. When your audience knows what to expect from you, they are more likely to engage with your content and return for more.

2. Building Trust and Credibility

Consistency goes hand in hand with trust and credibility. When you consistently deliver valuable, high-quality content, your audience begins to see you as an authority in your niche. They trust that you will provide reliable information and insights, which can lead to increased brand loyalty and customer retention.

3. Retaining and Growing Your Audience

Imagine tuning in to your favorite TV show, only to find it airs at irregular and unpredictable times. Frustrating, right? The same principle applies to content creation. Consistency in posting schedules, whether it’s daily, weekly, or monthly, keeps your audience engaged and coming back for more. It also makes it easier for new followers to discover and join your community.

4. Enhancing SEO and Discoverability

Search engines love fresh, consistent content. When you regularly update your blog or website with relevant content, search engines like Google are more likely to rank your site higher in search results. This, in turn, makes it easier for people searching for topics in your niche to find your content.

5. Content Planning and Efficiency

Consistency in content creation encourages you to plan ahead and stay organized. You’ll be more likely to create content calendars, set deadlines, and streamline your content creation process. This efficiency not only saves time but also ensures that your content aligns with your long-term goals and messaging.

6. Engaging Your Audience

Consistency extends beyond the frequency of your posts. It also relates to the style, tone, and voice of your content. When your audience becomes familiar with your unique voice and style, they feel a deeper connection to your content. This connection can lead to more meaningful interactions and discussions in comments and social media.

7. Monetization Opportunities

If you’re looking to monetize your content through advertising, sponsorships, or affiliate marketing, consistency is key. Brands and advertisers are more likely to partner with content creators who consistently produce high-quality content and have an engaged audience. Your reliability and track record can open doors to lucrative opportunities.

Conclusion

In the world of content creation, consistency is a powerful tool that can propel your success to new heights. It builds trust, fosters audience growth, and enhances your overall brand image. Whether you’re a seasoned content creator or just starting out, make consistency a priority in your content strategy. The benefits it brings will be well worth the effort, helping you achieve your goals and connect with your audience on a deeper level. So, stay consistent, stay true to your voice, and watch your content thrive.

ELA Source Blog Metrics for August

Published on by Sandy Davis

This is a screenshot of the metrics I track for my blog. This shows the past four months of activity, ending in August. I will share an updated version at the beginning of each month showing the last month (I will post my stats for September at the beginning of October). I’m doing this for two reasons. First of all, I love it when content creators are transparant about their stats, showing views and subscribers and income for things like blogs, YouTube, etc. The other reason is that I thought it might be interesting for my readers to see a blog grow from scratch in real time. Most of the time when I follow a blog they already have thousands of subscribers.

I have no goals except consistency. As I mentioned yesterday, I plan to post at least once per day during the entire month of September, partly as a personal challenge to create a blogging habit, and party to measure the impact of consistent posting on my stats.

You may have also noticed that I’m posting a mix of content, which varies from articles about teaching to articles about content creation. I plan to continue with both topics until I figure out whether I can sustain 2 niches, or if my stats reflect a reader preference for one niche or another.

I hope you’ll join me on this journey!

The Essential Guide to Writing a Thesis Statement

Published on by Sandy Davis

Why is teaching students to write an effective thesis statement is so important?

In the realm of academic writing, the thesis statement is the compass that guides an essay’s direction and purpose. It serves as a roadmap for both the writer and the reader, ensuring that the argument remains focused and coherent throughout. Teaching students to craft an effective thesis statement is not just a pedagogical formality; it is a foundational skill that equips them with the tools necessary for clear and persuasive communication. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of teaching students how to write an effective thesis statement and its far-reaching implications.

  1. Clarity and Focus

An effective thesis statement is a concise declaration of the central argument or main point of an essay. It sets the tone for the entire piece of writing and helps students maintain clarity and focus in their work. When students learn how to formulate a clear thesis statement, they are better equipped to stay on track and avoid wandering off-topic. This not only makes their writing more coherent but also enhances their ability to convey complex ideas succinctly.

  1. Critical Thinking

Crafting a thesis statement requires students to engage in critical thinking. They must analyze the topic, identify the key components of their argument, and decide on the most compelling way to present it. This process encourages students to develop and refine their analytical skills, enabling them to approach problems and topics in a more systematic and thoughtful manner.

  1. Structure and Organization

An effective thesis statement serves as the backbone of an essay’s structure. It dictates the organization of the paper and helps students structure their thoughts logically. When students understand how to write a strong thesis statement, they are better equipped to create well-organized essays with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. This skill is invaluable not only in academic writing but also in various professional contexts.

  1. Persuasive Writing

A well-crafted thesis statement is essential for persuasive writing. It allows students to present their arguments with conviction and authority, making it more likely that readers will be persuaded by their ideas. Teaching students how to develop a strong thesis statement empowers them to be more persuasive writers, a skill that is valuable in debates, speeches, and any situation where one must advocate for a particular viewpoint.

  1. Research Skills

Effective thesis statements often require research and evidence to support the argument. Teaching students to write a thesis statement encourages them to delve into research, evaluate sources, and incorporate relevant information into their essays. This fosters a habit of critical inquiry and resourcefulness, skills that are crucial in the information age.

  1. Adaptability

The ability to create an effective thesis statement is a transferable skill that extends beyond the classroom. Whether students are crafting essays, reports, business proposals, or even social media posts, the ability to concisely articulate a central point is invaluable. Teaching this skill prepares students for success in a wide range of personal and professional endeavors.

The Creator Mindset

Published on by Sandy Davis

The Creator Mindset is the embodiment of innovation, curiosity, and boundless potential. It is an approach to life that nurtures the belief that we are not passive bystanders, but active creators of our reality. When we embrace this mindset, we tap into our full potential and find a limitless well of possibilities awaiting us.

1. Embrace Curiosity and Continuous Learning

At the heart of the Creator Mindset lies an insatiable curiosity. Creators are always eager to explore, discover, and learn new things. They don’t shy away from challenges but see them as opportunities for growth and expansion. Every setback is viewed as a chance to gain valuable insights, not as a sign of failure. This curiosity-driven approach opens doors to unexplored territories and fuels the drive to seek knowledge beyond conventional boundaries.

2. Embrace Failure as a Stepping Stone

Creators understand that failure is an integral part of the journey toward success. They see it as a stepping stone, not a stumbling block. Instead of being discouraged by setbacks, they learn from them, iterate, and improve. This resilience allows creators to push the boundaries of what is possible and brings them closer to breakthroughs that could transform their lives and the world around them.

3. Cultivate Imagination and Vision

Imagination is the key that unlocks the doors of innovation. Creators dare to dream big, envisioning possibilities beyond the current state of affairs. They don’t limit themselves to what is readily visible; rather, they paint vivid pictures of what they wish to create. This clarity of vision acts as a guiding star, illuminating their path and motivating them to manifest their dreams into reality.

4. Collaborate and Empower Others

Creators understand that they don’t have to go it alone. Collaboration with like-minded individuals amplifies their creativity and multiplies the impact of their endeavors. They foster an environment where ideas are shared freely, and constructive feedback is welcomed. In doing so, they empower others to embrace their own creator mindset and create a collective force of innovation and change.

5. Take Inspired Action

While imagination and vision are essential, the Creator Mindset doesn’t dwell solely in the realm of ideas. Creators take inspired action to turn their dreams into tangible results. They understand that an idea without action remains just that – an idea. By taking the first step, no matter how small, they set in motion a chain reaction that can lead to astonishing accomplishments.

6. Embrace Adaptability and Evolution

The world is ever-changing, and creators are not afraid to adapt and evolve along with it. They understand that clinging to the status quo may hinder progress and limit potential. Embracing change allows creators to stay at the forefront of innovation and ride the waves of transformation, rather than being swept away by them.

7. Find Joy in the Process

Finally, the Creator Mindset thrives on finding joy in the journey, not just the destination. Creators relish the process of creation itself, enjoying the challenges, the ups and downs, and the continuous growth. It is the journey that shapes them and allows them to savor every moment along the way.

In conclusion, the Creator Mindset is not reserved for a select few; it is within the grasp of each one of us. By embracing curiosity, learning from failures, cultivating imagination, collaborating with others, taking action, and adapting to change, we can unlock the creative forces within ourselves. So, let’s dare to be dreamers, innovators, and creators – for it is with this mindset that we can leave an indelible mark on the world and inspire others to do the same.

Edit: This post has been so popular that I’ve created a Creator Mindset Course to be launched in January 2024.