Brainstorming involves making a list of ideas as they occur to you. This list should not consist of complete sentences — in fact, brainstorming is most successful when you avoid censoring yourself. Although you’ll end up using only a few of the ideas you generate during brainstorming, don’t worry about weeding out the less promising ideas until later.

Brainstorming sessions usually respond to a specific question, such as “What interests me personally about this project?” or “Why would anyone care about ______?” For example, Bob Miller, a student in the same writing course as Mia Jackson, had recently returned from serving a year-long tour of duty in Afghanistan and had used his GI benefits to enroll in college. He drew on his experience as a returning veteran as he brainstormed the following list in response to the question “What factors have helped me return to civilian life?”

Getting healthy, starting running again

Taking my dog on long hikes in the hills outside of town

Working with a career counselor to figure out my career plan

This brainstorming list helped Bob recognize that he might take a reflective approach to the assignment, contemplating his own experiences alongside other sources that address his topic.