Chapter 10.1: Collaborative Writing

Collaborative Writing Planning

When you are assigned a written task that requires the input of multiple people, how do you usually approach the task? Often, we do so reflexively, without considering what methods might be most appropriate for the group, for the task, and for the topic. This chapter will provide you with an overview of some of the common techniques and tips for collaborative writing so you can make more informed choices when you complete such tasks.

Collaborative writing is not only something that happens in academic settings. It is actually quite common in many career fields. You will find that a short planning session before you begin a collaborative writing assignment can go a long way toward preventing big problems throughout the process.

Types of Collaborative Writing

There are four primary types of collaborative writing. Each might be more appropriate for different group dynamics, for different task requirements, and for different topics of writing. The first is called sequential integrating writing or lead writing. In this type, a lead author produces an initial draft of the document, and the other group members propose and discuss modifications to it. The paper is edited and added to only once a first draft has been completed by a primary author. An advantage to this form of writing is that it requires the least communication and coordination between participants. It also provides a consistent writing style. However, it encourages less participation and cognitive contribution from the majority of the collaborators. An alternative to this sequential integrating writing method is to assign different roles to each group member, such as lead author, copy editor, style editor, etc. and then pass the paper through each group member with specific tasks in mind.

The second type of collaborative writing is called sequential single writing or take-a-turn-and-pass-it-on writing. In this case, each writer is assigned a section of the document. The participants take turns completing their part so each writer can see what the previous participant did before adding their own part. As each group member takes a turn with the document, they review the previous work, add theirs, and then pass it along to the next participant. At the end of the process, the group works together to edit and harmonize the style. This process is more time consuming but has the benefit of greater intellectual contribution and participation by all group members. It also allows the group to minimize final editing by harmonizing style through each stage.

The next collaborative writing type is called parallel simultaneous writing or jigsaw. For this method, each member takes responsibility for preparing different parts or sections of the paper. Each writer works independently on their part. The group meets to put all the pieces together (like a puzzle) and then works to add transitions and harmonize the style. Each group member becomes an expert on a particular part of the paper. However, there is less overall coordination of the ideas or of the big picture. This method is best undertaken with big picture planning from the start and small detail editing and adjustment at the end.

The final primary method of collaborative writing is called reactive integrating writing or side-by-side writing. Using this method, the team writes the paper by collaborative, synchronous effort. They negotiate all content as it is written, perhaps with one person typing and others commenting or with several members typing at the same time. Group members can react instantaneously to proposed modifications and can make adjustments at the same time. This method provides the best opportunity for full cognitive participation of all group members and for the full group to have ownership of the intellectual content. However, it requires far more commitment of time for the full group to be present and communicating together effectively. While this process may not need a final editing session to harmonize style, it is always still a good practice to smooth the style of multiple authors in a final read through.  A variation of this method could also be done asynchronously without instantaneous feedback.

Advice for Writing Collaboratively

Begin with up-front planning. It is common for groups to make a quick strategy for how they will create the written content of the paper, but not really for how the group with coordinate ideas or what communication methods will be prioritized. Be sure you fully understand the requirements for the written task. Agree on writing style standards from the start. Different work places, different academic traditions use different styles. For communication classes, academic writing is usually done in APA style. A style guide does more than determine how you cite your sources. Style guides also set standards for formatting, punctuation, and even some grammar.

Once you have the big picture, decide how your group will approach the task. Discuss what skills and abilities group members have. Discuss the current time commitments and other obligations group members are currently facing. Practice active listening, watching for both verbal and nonverbal cues to fully understand meaning. It is always a good idea to designate a team coordinator who is ultimately responsible for the overall task, even when you are not using a lead writer. This person does not need to be a group leader. Discuss the different collaborative writing methods and select the one that best fits your current situation. Be sure everyone leaves the planning meeting knowing exactly what is expected of them, including both content and timelines.

Be proactive working with your peer collaborators. Seek to foster a spirit of cooperation. Look for ways to contribute. Don’t try to take over the whole task simply because it seems easier to just do it yourself. Remember that your team members have their own experiences and expertise. Don’t rob your project of the potential strength you could have through shared input.

Use technology to overcome constraints of physical location. Resources such as Google Docs allow you to create shared documents everyone can access, even remotely. These resources can facilitate all collaborative writing methods but only if everyone in the group knows and understands them well. Before adopting a means of technological facilitation, it is worth a short conversation discussing everyone’s familiarity with a particular digital tool. Many word processing programs such as Microsoft Word of Google Docs allow users to track changes and to approve individual or all changes. These affordances are commonly used in professional collaborative writing. Even if the tools are unfamiliar to you, it may be worth the time to practice and master them. Most word processing programs also allow you to add comments to sections of the paper. This can be useful during review and editing. Remember to resolve all comments before generating the final version. You don’t want your final paper to look like a work in progress.

Harmonize the writing style. Adding effective transitions between sections can improve organization and flow. Be sure the verb tense is consistent throughout the paper. Seek to minimize differences between the writing style of different contributors in the work. Plan the final editing session to smooth out contrasting writing styles and make certain everyone agrees with the content.

Writing Under Pressure

First of all, plan ahead. Collaborative writing requires more time than individual writing, by necessity. Allocate your time. Be sure to schedule the pre-planning time and the final overview collaborative time. As you work and discuss, keep distractions to a minimum. Seek to get the most benefit from the technological resources available to you. Plan your structure in advance and stick to the plan. Keep your reader in mind from the beginning to the end. Go with the flow. Remember when you are writing that the first draft is not the final draft. Don’t get so caught up in changing and correcting your peers that you stifle thinking or prevent the free flow of ideas. Leave room for refinements in the revision process, not in the content creation process. Be patient with each other but hold each other accountable for commitments and timelines.