- Understanding a prompt and brainstorming
- Pre-draft writing
- Getting started on an assignment
- Developing a thesis
- Articulating motive for an essay
- Structuring an argument
- Revising a draft
- Outlining, before & after writing
- Polishing style
- Improving use of language
- Spotting errors
- Working with sources
- Integrating evidence into an argument
- Analyzing texts
- Any other writing issues you are having!
Writing Center Navigation
Writing Center
Writing Partnerships
A Writing Partner is an experienced tutor from the Writing Center who will meet with you one-on-one for an hour each week to talk about your writing.
At the beginning of the semester, you and your Writing Partner will work together to identify some goals to pursue over the course of the semester. You can work on any number of writing issues, from formulating a strong thesis to structuring a longer essay, using commas, or polishing your prose. You can consult with your Partner on writing from any of your classes, not just writing seminars.
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What can a writing partner help me with?
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Who are writing partners?
Writing partners are sophomores, juniors, and seniors who work at the Writing Center as tutors. While the writing tutors are trained to work with you on all kinds of writing, you may want to choose to work with someone who majors or minors in your discipline. Whatever their major, your writing partner will be a fellow student who can give you great advice about writing at Haverford.
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Is there a difference between a tutor and writing partner?
Writing Center tutors and writing partners are the same people: all of them work at the Writing Center and all of them are trained as writing tutors. They will work with you on the same kinds of things. But by meeting with a partner once a week, you’ll be able to pursue longer-term writing goals, things that you can’t achieve in one session with a tutor. Your partner will get to know your style of writing and thinking and can help you to become a more self-aware and confident writer.
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How often will I meet my writing partner?
Generally writing partners meet for one 50 minute session every week at a mutually convenient time.
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Are writing partners just for first-year students?
No! A writing Ppartner could help you with a section of your senior thesis, an essay you’re writing in a new discipline, or mastering the lingo of your particular major.
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How much does the program cost?
Nothing! It's free for Haverford students.
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If I have a writing partner, can I still go to the Writing Center?
Yes! You can make appointments with other tutors as often as you like.
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Do I have to meet my writing partner during Writing Center hours?
Not necessarily. You and your partner set a mutually convenient time.
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How should I prepare for a meeting?
Try to come to the meeting with an idea of what you’d like to focus on. Bring your ideas, syllabus, assignments, and drafts.
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Can I meet my partner if I haven't written anything yet?
Sure! You can discuss any stage of the writing process with your partner, from deciphering the assignment to polishing the revision.
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Can I choose my writing partner?
You can request a particular tutor when you apply for the program, but they may not necessarily have slots available.
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What if I have to miss an appointment?
If you know in advance that you can’t make one of your sessions, let your Partner know as early as you can. In case of emergency, your partner will of course understand your absence. If you miss two or more appointments, your writing partner may be assigned to another student.
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How do I apply for the writing partners program?
Contact Kristin Lindgren, Director of the Writing Center. In your email, please include a short explanation of why you’d like a writing partner.