During the writing process, what is a key characteristic of the drafting stage?

The drafting stage of the writing process is fundamentally about generating the initial version of a piece of writing. It allows the writer to express their ideas and thoughts freely without the pressure of perfection or finality. During this stage, the focus is on getting the main concepts and arguments down on paper, even if they are not fully developed or articulated. This rough version serves as a foundation upon which the writer can build later in the process, allowing room for revisions and edits based on structure, content, and clarity.

The act of creating this rough draft is essential because it enables writers to explore different directions and potential points of view, which can significantly influence the final outcome. As the writer moves forward in the writing process, they can then refine and polish the text, seek feedback, and finalize the content, but the drafting stage is distinct in that it prioritizes the initial outpouring of ideas.