Does Creative Writing Help Improve Argumentative and Expository Essays?

When we google the differences among various forms of writing, it's easy to fall into the trap of seeing them as entirely distinct and separate entities. This can lead to the impression that writing a creative short story is vastly different from working on an argumentative essay or an expository essay. However, this oversimplification is misleading. At the core, all forms of writing share the fundamental task of conveying ideas coherently on paper.

Writing is Writing, Not Just a Task

Despite the variety in content and purpose, writing remains a process of putting words on paper to make sense and convey a coherent argument or story. Just as the rules of the road and the mechanics of a car are universal whether you’re driving an automatic or a manual, writing fundamentals are consistent across genres. This means that the skills developed through creative writing can significantly enhance your proficiency in other forms of writing.

A Portable Skillset: From Creative to Academic Writing

Consider the experience of a student I tutored. They found writing in all forms extremely challenging and were reluctant to engage in it. One day, their sister reached out, suggesting they try creative writing. Eager to find a solution, they agreed to give it a try. We chose a prompt about being a passenger in a car driven by a madman. Over the next 2-3 weeks, the student enjoyed the process, finding it less daunting than academic writing.

When we revisited academic assignments, the student felt it was easier and less scary than before. This was a significant improvement, reinforcing the idea that gaining experience in one form of writing can spill over into others. This experience highlighted the importance of diversifying your writing practice.

The Benefits of Cross-Genre Practice

Across genres, the process of writing involves several critical skills:

Creative Thinking: Developing a narrative, supporting it with compelling arguments, or conveying information in a clear and engaging manner. Editing and Proofreading: Ensuring that your writing is free of errors and aligns with the intended message. Structure and Organization: Structuring your ideas logically and presenting them in a way that is easy to follow. Vocabulary and Grammar: Using language effectively to enhance your writing.

Practicing these skills in a creative context can help you refine these abilities, making it easier to apply them in other forms of writing. Additionally, the enjoyment derived from engaging in creative writing can reduce the fear and anxiety associated with academic writing, leading to increased confidence and better results.

Embracing Writing, Regardless of Genres

The primary goal of writing should be to communicate effectively and enjoy the process. Whether you’re writing a short story or an essay, the core process remains the same. By practicing regularly, you will improve your skills and confidence, making you a better writer in all aspects.

So, whether you’re working on an argumentative essay or an expository essay, remember that improving your creative writing skills can help. Engage in diverse forms of writing, and enjoy the journey as much as you can. You won't regret it, and your writing skills will undoubtedly grow stronger.