Process Analysis

Comprehension Quiz for “Shitty First Drafts”

Read “Shitty First Drafts” and check your comprehension by answering the following questions. Then “submit” your work.

1. What common misconception about successful writers does Lamott describe?

They all started writing at a very young age.

They all have excellent typing skills.

They all have a rich inner life.

They all find writing very easy.

Correct

Incorrect

2. What is it about her “shitty” first drafts that allows Lamott to write them?

She knows they are the best she can do at the time.

They are not as long as the final piece of writing will be.

No one else will read them.

They do not take very long to write.

Correct

Incorrect

3. As an example of her process, Lamott describes writing

short stories.

restaurant reviews.

op-ed columns.

all of the above

Correct

Incorrect

4. Lamott notes that when writing her first drafts

she doesn’t rein herself in.

she polishes the writing in her head.

she pays attention to her inner critic.

she often writes about anything other than her true subject.

Correct

Incorrect

5. What is Lamott’s final advice for writers at the start of a project?

Plan carefully before starting to write.

Don’t be afraid that someone will read your first draft.

Just get anything down on paper.

Look forward to the opportunity to write.

Correct

Incorrect