Draft papers are used extensively throughout the writing process to:
* Generate ideas and explore topics: Initial drafts are often messy and disorganized. They serve as a space to brainstorm, experiment with different approaches, and discover what you really want to say. You're not worried about grammar, style, or perfect organization at this stage.
* Organize thoughts: As you write, you can begin to structure your argument, organize your evidence, and see how your ideas connect (or don't connect). Drafting helps you identify gaps in your reasoning and areas needing further development.
* Refine arguments and develop points: Through successive drafts, you can strengthen your arguments, clarify your points, and add supporting evidence. You can move sections around, delete unnecessary material, and expand on weaker areas.
* Improve clarity and style: Later drafts focus on refining sentence structure, word choice, and overall style. This is where you polish your writing to make it more readable and engaging.
* Get feedback: Drafts are crucial for receiving feedback from others. Sharing a draft allows peers, instructors, or editors to identify weaknesses, offer suggestions, and help you improve your work.
In short, the draft paper is a working document, a tool for the writer to develop their ideas and refine their writing. It’s a process, not a product. Most writers go through multiple drafts before reaching a final version. Think of it as building a house: you wouldn't just erect the walls and roof without first laying the foundation. The draft is the foundation upon which the final, polished piece is built.