I get asked that question a lot. Mostly from stressed out students who don't want to do an assignment, but the question is a valid and a great one. What can writing do for you? It's not like learning to write an essay is a skill any employer has ever asked me about. In all of my 19 years teaching I have never needed to write a 5 paragraph essay for my job. In fact many jobs don't require essay writing. So does that mean we are only learning to write because state standards tell us we have too? My answer is a resounding no. Writing lets you learn how to dissect information. It teaches you to analyze what is important and what can be thrown away. Mastering all of the skills needed to be a great writer is like having a polygraph machine inside of your head because you have the skills to identify falsehoods and frauds. It makes you a better citizen, consumer, and person. So why should you learn to write? Because it can become your superpower!