1. Writing is usually best taught by skilled English teachers, who have a background in the formal study of language and literature.
2. With practice and motivation, any normal person can learn to be a successful professional writer. You don't have to be born with a gift for language or creativity.
3. Good writers learn the rules of writing—grammar, punctuation, mechanics, document formatting—and apply these rules consistently for the sake of the reader.
4. Although following a strict writing process is an excellent suggestion and a good place to start, good writers don't follow a strict linear sequence of prewriting, drafting, revising, proofing.
5. Teachers do not have to thoroughly read and mark a student's paper in order to facilitate the student's learning.
6. Professional writers pretty much get it right the first time and rarely have to go through multiple drafts before a piece gets published.
7. Teaching grammar improves the quality of a student's writing.
8. To be a successful writer, read the great writers.
9. The primary purpose of writing is to communicate.
10. Writing is a silent, solitary activity.