Writing in Class

Hey-O readers! Don't you all look dashing today!

Just a reminder: for the next ten weeks, you won't be hearing from me here, but on Deanna Leah's blog, Dancing on the Keys. Instead, in Writing, Editing, and All Things Rani you'll be treated to the lovely work of Ms. Leah! Together, we're doing a little series on writer hacks and helps, and we hope you all enjoy what we have to say. 

[love]

{RD}

~

Life tends to be a busy mess, especially as a writer.

ESPECIALLY as a writer in college. 

You will know if this describes you. You probably are pulling your hair out right now just thinking about that battle between your homework and your next chapter to outline. Only one can win… right?

What if you could do both without staying up ‘til an ungodly hour?

Well a good friend of mine {*cough* this is her *cough* blog *cough*} gave me a tip.

What if you tried writing during class? Then you would have time for homework, sleep, and all the other jazz you have to “juggle”. (See: Dancing on the Keys)

How do you do this while A. not getting caught and B. still learning what you need to learn?

The point of A is easy to handle. If your class allows computers use your computer. If it doesn’t, write in your notebook. You don’t need to worry about looking like you’re taking too many notes. In fact it may even flatter your teacher. Just act natural, and get that concentrated grimace off your face. You’ll do just fine and get a LOT done.

Point B will take a little more dedication and quite a lot of “b.s.-ing” when it comes to class discussion and homework.

Ask yourself the following:

          1.   How much does writing mean to me?

Is it important enough to you that it should be displacing school in this way? Is it your love? Does it flow through your veins like blood? Furthermore, do you intend to go places with it? If not, then maybe school needs to be your focus right now. If the answer to all of the above is yes, see below.

          2.   How hard is the particular class?

Does this class need your utter focus? Do you tend to find yourself breezing through the homework and grasping the concepts or do you tend find yourself having to talk to your professor after class? The level of difficulty determines if this class would be an ideal writing environment. The ideal being writing while still making good grades.

          3.   Apart from how hard it is, how important is this class to your future?

Will you really need this class in the next few years or is it more of a filler class?

In answer to B you can still learn what you need to learn to pass while writing in class. If you find yourself with an uninteresting or extra easy class I would recommend you take advantage of it by writing in class! It will make good use of that time and your homework won’t suffer from it. If all your classes are too hard or important, that’s going to mean some sleepless nights or extra busy weekends.

You can do it!

-        Deanna Leah <3