Professors from the University of New England were surveyed to find the most common problems in undergraduate writing. The inability to paraphrase ideas and the failure to express ones ideas were found to be common problems (Garret, n.d.). It is possible that these common problems are not being directly addressed. When I transitioned from high school to college, I also struggled with paraphrasing. I didn't really understand what paraphrasing was or how to paraphrase in an effective manner. Because of my struggles, my grades suffered and I believed that I was a terrible writer. My English Composition 101 professor encouraged me that I was an excellent writer, but I needed a better understanding of paraphrasing. She gave me the confidence boost that I needed. I tried to figure out an effective way to paraphrase. I graduated Summa cum Laude! I recently graduated with distinction with a Master of Science Degree in General Psychology. Now, I would like to share what I learned to help you paraphrase effectively. This course directly gives strategies to paraphrase ideas and also to express ideas in one's own voice and style.
After completing this course you will be able to:
Why is paraphrasing important?
References
Garret, J. M. (n.d.). Common problems in undergraduate writing.