Welcome to Writing@UW! On this site we centralize information and resources about writing across UW’s campuses. Whether you are an incoming student looking for a Composition or Additional Writing course, or an instructor who wants to teach (with) writing, there is information here for you.

As writing teachers we have encountered hundreds of people who declare that they hate, fear, or are "bad at" writing. We have even heard of many who have pursued certain majors or careers because they thought they would be exempt from having to write too much. It is true that writing can be hard, even painfully hard, because it is used for communicating complex ideas and, at times, difficult truths.

However, no area of study and no profession is off the hook from writing. In fact, in some highly technical fields (e.g., medicine, engineering), effective written communication can be a matter of fairness and justice, or even life and death. 

We are all writers.

Because of its foundational importance at all levels of learning and professional practice, we want to make it easier for everyone at UW to connect with resources that support their writing. We recommend that everyone start by reading the UW Principles of Writing, which define writing and its value throughout study and life. 

Then, depending on your roles and goals, explore the site to find information for:

Student-Writers:

  • Learn about the Composition (“C”) and Additional Writing (“W”) requirements

  • Find centers and programs on campus that can help you with your writing

  • Use the Writing Pathways tool, particularly if you are an incoming student, to find the courses and resources that best fit your interests

Teacher-Writers: