When we read like a "reader" we are more passive and only notice how the text makes us feel. Reading as a "writer" is a more active endeavor, in which we notice how the text makes us think. More importantly, we analyze why the author included certain words or literary techniques in support of the tone, message, or structure of the composition. Nothing is an accident, when writing for effect, and reading like a writer will help you to improve your own vocabulary, writing, and critical thinking skills. More importantly, it will help you to form your own ideas and to see through propaganda or deception.

Here are some strategies for reading like a writer:

1- How does the author use specific figurative language and author's craft? Look for-

• Repetition
• Rhetorical Questions (Sometimes to suggest one sane answer... usually a "well, duh!" answer)
• Bias
• Analogy
• Allegory
• Sarcasm (rude but also meant to communicate how ridiculous an idea or question is)
• Irony
• Similes
• Metaphors
• Hyperbole
• Idioms
• Personification

2- How does the author use diction? Why was a certain word chosen to communicate a message, and what are some other words that could be substituted?

3- Consider the author's craft and diction. Why did the author include that? How does it support the tone, message, and structure of the composition? When looking at diction, consider the connotation of certain words (What ideas or emotions the word evokes, as opposed to just finding the dictionary definition).

4- How does it compare to other texts? What other styles of writing does it remind you of? Are there patterns among authors who write like this?

5- Envision these techniques in your own writing. How can you incorporate these techniques and vocabulary into your own writing and to what effect?

Activity: Read the following article below like a writer.

Notes: What literary techniques do you notice. Why does the author use them, and how do they support the message, tone, or structure? What words really stick out, what are their connotations, and how do they support the message or tone?

Click here for film-review article

Activity 2: Identify influential vocabulary in the article (between 10-20 words that affect the tone and/or message). Rewrite the article and replace influential vocabulary with synonyms you think would work. Re-read to see how it changes the article.