Below, we've compiled some of the frequently asked questions that we receive from students. The "table of contents" links to your right can help you quickly navigate to the section you need. If your question is not answered below, please email us at indianapolis-writingcenter@ivytech.edu, and we will respond as quickly as possible.
What should I bring with me to a consultation?
Please bring your assignment prompt and any writing you've started (brainstorming notes, outline, draft, etc.). When working with research materials, you may also want to bring any sources that you need help citing.
How long are consultations? If I need more help after the session, can I keep working with my tutor or come back later in the day?
Writing consultations typically last 45 minutes and are limited to one visit per day. While we are unable to provide feedback on everything during that time, we try to focus on 2-3 of your primary concerns. Too much feedback at one time can overwhelm writers and limit our ability to focus on higher-priority parts of your writing. Instead, we aim to help you learn and apply strategies for revising your own work--thus empowering students to maintain their agency as writers. Because the Writing Center has a limited number of consultants available to work with students, this policy allows us to consult with more students each day. We encourage students to schedule a follow-up consultation when necessary, as it can be helpful to receive feedback at different points of the writing process.
Will you proofread/edit my paper for grammar mistakes?
No. The Writing Center is committed to supporting and empowering students by helping them develop and refine their own writing skills. Although we will not edit your paper for you, we will talk with you about writing patterns to look out for and strategies that you can use to revise your own work. It's also important to remember that there is more to writing than just grammar and punctuation. Depending on where you are at in your writing process, we may prioritize other concerns and return to questions about grammar during a follow-up consultation.
Can I drop off my paper and pick it up later?
No. The consultants in our Writing Center work one-on-one with students to help them grow as writers. We ask questions, offer feedback, and engage in dialogue surrounding a student's writing and revision plans. We believe this interactive discussion is an important part of the writing and learning process.
My professor said I'm required to visit the Writing Center (or offering extra credit if I visit). How do I let them know that I met with a writing tutor?
After your consultation, your tutor will send a brief email to your instructor to let them know that you visited the Writing Center and worked on an assignment for their class.
Can we look at my paper on a computer?
The Writing Center does have some computers available for use during consultations, so you do not need to print a copy of your paper. Whether your draft is saved on a portable flash drive or in Google Drive, we can utilize a computer to view your work during a consultation.
Is the Writing Center an open computer lab I can use to work on assignments?
Students may use the Writing Center for quiet, independent work on writing assignments. Tutors may or may not be available to assist students with occasional questions during their independent work time depending on availability.
Can I print my paper in the Writing Center?
Our computers are not currently connected to a printer in the Writing Center. However, the Library (which is just down the hall from us) has two commercial printers that you may print to. We recommend that if you plan to work from a printed copy of your draft, it is best to print the document prior to arriving at the Writing Center for your consultation.
Will tutors help me learn how to use my computer?
When working with specific programs like Microsoft Word or Google Docs, writing tutors can demonstrate how to utilize tools to help you format your writing. However, if you need additional computer technology support, we recommend calling the Ivy Line (1-888-489-5463) to talk with someone in IT.
What writing tutor services do you offer virtually online?
You can learn more about our online tutoring services by clicking here.
How do I share my paper virtually with a tutor?
If you schedule a synchronous Zoom consultation, your tutor can help you "screen share," which allows them to see the draft you are working on. If you would like to receive asynchronous written feedback from a writing tutor, please email your draft, along with the assignment prompt and the questions you have about your work to indianapolis-writingcenter@ivytech.edu.
I don't have a computer. Can I receive tutoring help using a tablet or phone?
Although it may be easier to screenshare and write using a computer, yes, you can download the free Zoom app that's available in the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. When your tutor sends the Zoom invitation link for your consultation, simply click on the link to connect with your writing tutor.
My computer does not have a webcam or mic. Can I still get help during a virtual Zoom consultation?
Yes! When you access the Zoom invitation link to join your writing consultation, you will also be provide a number that you can call. This allows you to "dial in" for audio. The Zoom invitation link will allow you to share screens, and calling in for audio will allow you and your tutor to communicate. Zoom also contains a chat tool, which allows you to type questions and comments to your tutor.
How to do I schedule a virtual writing consultation, and what do I do if I need to cancel the appointment?
You can learn how to schedule a virtual writing consultation or how to submit your work for written email feedback by clicking here.
How do I schedule a writing consultation?
You can learn how to schedule a writing consultation by clicking here.
Can I drop by the Writing Center to receive help without an appointment?
We always recommend scheduling an appointment for your writing consultation so you avoid potentially longer wait times, especially at busy points of the semester. If a tutor is not available when you stop by the Writing Center for drop-in tutoring, our receptionist will help schedule an appointment for you with the next available writing tutor.
What should I do if I'm running late for my appointment?
If possible, please email us at indianapolis-writingcenter@ivytech.edu so we can let your tutor know you'll be a few minutes late. Your tutor may have another appointment scheduled after you, which can limit your consultation time. If students are running more than 5-10 minutes late, we recommend rescheduling so they can utilize their entire appointment time. Our team will work with you to identify another available tutor who can help you or reschedule your session for a day and time that is more convenient.
What should I do if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
Sometimes students want to reschedule their consultation if they do not get as far as they had planned in their writing. The first thing to remember is that feedback is always helpful--even if that feedback is on a less complete draft. However, we understand that life happens and you may not be able to attend your scheduled consultation. When this happens, please email indianapolis-writingcenter@ivytech.edu to let us know so that we can make the appointment available for another student and work with you to reschedule for a day and time that is more convenient.