Frequently asked questions

Who can use the Writing Center's services?

The Writing Center is for EVERYONE in the Prescott College community: undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and staff!

How do I request an appointment or email consultation?

You can fill out the form here.

What should I have for my session?

Whether you are meeting us in person, on Zoom, or via email, please have your assignment and any associated rubrics (if applicable) as well as your current draft of the assignment ready to share with your coach. If you have specific questions for your coach, it can help to have those written down as well.

Can I attend a Zoom session on my phone or tablet?

We can certainly make that work. However, note that you won't be able to share your screen unless you are on a PC or laptop. We use screen sharing to go over your paper and make suggestions during the session.

Will working with a writing coach get me better grades?

We cannot guarantee instant grade improvement, but we can work with you to improve your understanding of the writing process and develop your writing skills.

What kinds of help does the WC offer?

We can help you understand an assignment, brainstorm, organize and generate ideas, unpack the writing process, organize research, and of course, collaborate on strategies to strengthen your writing. We also help you with grammar, punctuation, and documentation styles. We work together so you’ll learn how to revise and edit your own work with time.

I think I'm a good/bad writer. Will the Writing Center be able to help me?

Though writing is often a solitary process, it doesn't need to be! Talking with other writers can help you clarify your ideas and improve your skills. From idea formation to one final check before turning a paper in, we can help you with any stage in the writing process:

• Choosing a topic

• Organizing and expanding on ideas

• Understanding your most common grammatical errors

• Verifying formating and citation styles

• Understanding the requirements of different writing forms

• Getting out of a writer's block slump

• Ensuring you are communicating your idea clearly

• Taking a good paper to the next level

I have an assignment to work on, but I just don't know where to start. Should I wait until I have a draft before I contact the Writing Center?

No! Don't wait! Sometimes the best way to get started is to talk the assignment over with someone. You do not need to have a draft ready before you contact the WC. We can help you get the ball rolling, no matter where you are in the (pre)writing process.