In this method, the writer does not use an outline, but simply begins to write, steadily and quickly, until all the ideas have taken rough shape on the page. It often works when the papers are short, when the subject is narrow in scope (a speech from a play, a painting, a controversial political document, a treaty, etc.) and the writer feels confident and familiar with the material. 

This method works best (in fact, it only works best) if the writer plans in advance to put in some time re-drafting. That way, he feels more free when he roughs out ideas and less burdened by having to get it right the first time.

After completing the rough writing, the writer then goes back and marks (with numbers, underlining or brackets) the important points, and arranges them in a logical order. Putting these points in a sequence and then reviewing them to see what the whole thing looks like will help control the wayward drifts of the rough writing, and lead to a careful rewrite.

It is often wise to take breaks between the rough writing and the reorganizing (short breaks if you're running out of time), in order to get a measure of distance. Re-charged after a brisk walk, a talk with friends, some recreation, the writer will have more energy to put into transforming the sow's ear into a silk purse.

   Using The Paper Topic
   Rough Magic
   Grocery Lists
   Up Against The Wall
   Paragraph Outline
   Building On Evidence
   Traditional Outlines
   Starting With Last Paragraph