Benefits:
- Helps structure thoughts: Creates an outline with main arguments and supporting evidence, making it easier to organize later.
- Clarifies positions: Provides clarity by putting initial arguments into writing, aiding self-clarification and identifying gaps or confusions.
- Feedback and collaboration: Allows others to provide feedback early, enabling more collaborative development of ideas.
- Builds momentum: Starting on paper helps keep projects moving and builds motivation to continue working.
- Time-effectiveness: Can lead to more efficient writing when ideas are already outlined.
While important, it's important to remember that draft position papers are just a starting point. Significant revision and refinement may be necessary to finalize a formal position paper.