Brainstorming

Clustering/Mapping

A way to generate ideas using words & shapes & lines that show connections between them

Freewriting

Also known as stream-of-consciousness writing or free association; simplest brainstorming technique

Brainstorming Strategies

Clustering/Mapping Lists Freewriting Five Ws Directed Writing

Lists

Present thoughts in a more structured way than clustering Tend toward hierarchical arrangement, as first ideas are placed higher Useful for generating thoughts related to a topic, question, or problem

Topic

The overarching focus of an essay or other written work

Brainstorming

The use of a variety of techniques to generate ideas and/or clarify thinking Enables writers to discover what they know or believe about a topic

Five Ws

Who, what, when, where, why Ask these questions about your topic, or in response to a question or problem you've been asked to write about

Directed Writing

Writing in response to an assignment Often include a topic & related questions/prompts designed to encourage open-minded thinking involved in brainstorming May be thesis statement in it

Brainstorming is particularly helpful when

you need to find a topic to write about