Frequently Asked Questions
Nothing. Writing Center services are free.
Where is the Writing Center located?
There are locations all over the 1604 campus and one in the Frio Street Building downtown. Check out the website for a complete listing.
What is involved in a visit to the Writing Center?
You determine what happens in a visit. The tutors are there to help you. The following is a possible scenario. The tutor will read through your paper with you, answer your questions, and work with you to strengthen your paper and your skills as a writer. You and the tutor may discuss any aspect of your writing or your writing process.
What would a visit do for me?
Many instructors say that student writing improves after quality feedback. As a writer, you will notice when you visit the Writing Center the process of revision is more productive; you may find yourself paying much more attention to your writing, spending more time on your writing, and beginning to think more confidently of yourself as a writer.
Do I need to make an appointment with a tutor?
While you are welcome to walk-in at any of the locations during their open hours, you're also welcome to make an appointment. An appointment will often keep you from having to stand in a long line!
Can I request a particular tutor?
Yes. If you are making an appointment, just request the tutor by name.
What kind of help will I receive from a tutor?
Writing Center tutors will discuss your writing assignments with you and make suggestions on approaching a topic, organizing a paper, developing your style, or correcting recurring errors. Tutors may also direct you to other resources for further assistance. Tutors will not edit or proofread a paper or write any part of your paper for you. (Tutors will help you with grammar and punctuation, though.)
What do I need to bring with me?
Bring your questions, ideas, notes, doodles, and your assignment or writing task. The more information you give us about the task, the more focused our advice can be. Bring a hard copy of your essay or a first draft on disk or flash drive. Bring writing at any stage of your process. It is helpful if you also bring along a copy of the assignment, if possible.
Will my instructor know that I used The Writing Center?
Whether you inform your professor that you have visited The Writing Center is your decision. We will give you a form that shows you did go the The Writing Center. You may give it to your professor if you wish. The decision is entirely up to you. We do not notify the professor ourselves.
What if I just have a quick question about my writing?
You will find that we have more than one tutor at many hours. If someone is not busy, he or she can certainly answer your question on the spot.
What are the hours of The Writing Center?
Go to "Tutor Hours" on the right side of this page.
Who can get help at The Writing Center?
Students, faculty, and staff - anyone who wants help with UTSA-related writing - are welcome at The Writing Center.
Do I have to have a complete draft?
No, you may come into The Center with some brainstorming or with any stage of the writing process.