Research on the Composing Process

Abstract

Writing research has undergone a transformation: Research techniques have expanded beyond the classical experimental paradigm. The methodologies employed in recent research on the composing process are discussed. These methodologies include laboratory case studies of the composing process, naturalistic studies, quasi-product studies that interpret results in terms of the process, and studies that use unique procedures. The results of the research are presented in terms of the process and of the subprocesses of writing (planning, translating, renewing, and revising). Limitations of the methodologies are explored, and conclusions about the results are presented.