Why have a writing accountability appointment at the Writing Center?
Because no one has to write alone! Writing is a social process, and it’s a myth that it has to be only you and your writing implement of choice. Many people find it useful to commit to setting that time aside to work on their writing—if it’s an appointment, you know you’ll stick to it!—and many neurodivergent people find “body doubling” useful.
How do accountability appointments work?
Basically, this works however you’d like it to! The consultant will begin by asking what your writing goals are. What do you want to accomplish during the 40 minutes of your appointment? Do you want to chat about your progress along the way, just talk when a question comes up, or simply write quietly with someone next to you? All of these are viable options! Whatever you choose, the consultant will sit by you and work on something of their own during the appointment time, in solidarity with you.
Near the end of the appointment time, the consultant will check in with you and help you “park downhill”—that is, name what you’ve done (and celebrate that with you!) and figure out a plan so that next time you sit down with your piece of writing, you know where to start and can roll right into your plan.
How do I sign up for an accountability appointment?
Simply schedule an appointment as you normally would on WCOnline. When the appointment form asks, "Is this an accountability appointment?" please select the "Yes" option!
Our thanks to the UMN Center for Writing for the inspiration.