Writing Center FAQ
How long does a face-to-face consultation take?
We have two appointment lengths, 25 minutes and 50 minutes. Twenty-five minute appointments are perfect for ENGL 101, most lab reports, and anyone who just needs a quick refresher on MLA or APA formatting. For everyone else, we strongly suggest a 50-minute appointment, if available. You can schedule a 50-minute appointment by changing the “to” time (the ending time) on the appointment screen or by scheduling two back to back time slots with the same consultant.
What is an on-line consultation by chat?
An on-line consultation by chat is a real-time conversation with a Writing Center consultant using the Writing Center’s private chat feature. During a chat consultation, you can share documents with your consultant, ask questions and get feedback about your draft, and even work collaboratively on revision. To make a real-time chat appointment, go to http://pittstate.mywconline.com, pick an open appointment time that works for you, and fill out the reservation form. When you get to “What kind of appointment is this?” choose “on-line consultation by chat.” At the bottom of the screen, choose “Yes, meet on-line.” Then click “Save Appointment.”
You can submit your draft and the instructions for the assignment from the confirmation screen immediately after scheduling your appointment by clicking on “click here” in the Success! box. Or you import your draft into the text area of the Writing Center chat when you log in to start your appointment.
What is an on-line consultation by e-mail?
An on-line consultation by e-mail is a chance for you to get personalized feedback on your writing at a time that works for you. To use this service, go to the on-line appointment schedule at http://pittstate.mywconline.com and select any available appointment. Then open your e-mail browser and e-mail your draft to us at writingcenter@pittstate.edu, along with the instructions for the assignment, if you have them. In the body of your e-mail, tell us what your concerns are with the paper and ask one or two specific questions to give the consultant a clear idea of what kind of help you want. That’s it. That’s all you have to do. A consultant will respond to the issues you’ve identified, and you will have the consultant’s feedback within 60 minutes of the scheduled appointment time.
Should I make an appointment?
Yes. The Writing Center @ PSU does walk-in consultations when time permits, but we encourage you to make an appointment. Our schedule fills up quickly, so plan ahead.
How can I make an appointment?
You can make an appointment online at http://pittstate.mywconline.com. If you need help making an appointment, please drop by in person. We will be happy to help.
What if I can’t get an appointment when I need one?
If you can’t find an open appointment on the day you need one, add yourself to the waiting list by clicking on the clock at the top lefthand corner of the day’s schedule. You may receive notification by text or email if an appointment in your timeslot opens up.
Is there a charge for using the Writing Center?
No. The Writing Center @ PSU provides all services free of charge to students, staff, and faculty.
How many assignments can I bring to my consultation?
We find that writers get best results by working with one assignment per visit. Please make a separate appointment for each document.
What kinds of assignments can the Writing Center help with?
The Writing Center @ PSU works with any writing project at any stage in the writing process. We welcome any kind of writing.
Will the Writing Center edit my paper for me?
Our consultants will work with you as you revise and edit your paper, but we do not offer an editing service. Our goal is to help you become a better writer, and that won't happen if we "fix" your paper for you!
Will my teacher know that I went to the Writing Center?
We date stamp each draft you bring to the Writing Center. If you would like an email notification to be sent to your teacher, let us know and we can do that too!