ABSTRACT
Close writers understand that revision is where possibilities become realities for authors. Revising requires writers to recognize when the ideas in their mind begin to differ from the words that represent them on the paper and to make adjustments to align them. Learning to write in a second language is hard work. Knowing that there will be opportunities to revisit, reflect, and revise their work can relieve the pressure of getting it right the first time. It can free students from the perception that their writing needs to be perfect and help them focus on a few areas at a time that need work. Delaying revision on some drafts might make revision easier for students by removing some of the familiarity and immediacy of the work that can get in the way of noticing. Close writing does not require a constant closeness to each piece of writing. It includes an awareness of when distance might better serve the writing.
