Reading Response 4

After reading “How to Read Like a Writer” and “Introduction to Primary Research,” I feel I’ve gained a better understanding on how to read more effectively, and how to use research and reading in ways to better my own writing. An example that helped me understand the important relationship between reading and writing (in terms of using reading to better writing) was in the “How to Read Like a Writer” excerpt where Bunn explained that when you RLW, instead of reading for knowledge on the topic of whatever you’re reading, you’re trying to get knowledge and an understanding about the ‘writerly techniques’ used by the writer. The text itself—along with the decisions made by the writer that made the piece what it is—are what we’re not only reading, but trying to understand.

I still find it kind of confusing, but this week’s readings helped me get a better understanding of the concept. I definitely do understand the benefits of being able to read like a writer, and I understand how that can easily translate to becoming a better writer overall. Also, it helped me to realize that reading like a writer also means thinking about decisions I would make had it been me writing the piece. Also, knowing the context of the writing and what it’s about helps to gain a better understanding of some of the choices the writer makes.

Driscoll’s excerpt was very informative as well, but I would have to say I got more out of the Bunn’s. The information about sources and about how to effectively conduct surveys and interviews were great to read about before our actual interviews take place!