International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) Practice Exam

Which stage involves gathering necessary data and information before drafting?

1. Editing

2. Proofreading

3. Prewriting

4. Finalizing

The correct answer is: Prewriting

The correct choice is prewriting, which is a crucial stage in the writing process. During prewriting, a writer gathers necessary data and information, which serves as the foundation for drafting the document. This stage typically involves brainstorming ideas, researching relevant subjects, organizing thoughts, and outlining the main points that will be included in the writing. By gathering information beforehand, the writer ensures that the content is well-supported and relevant, which enhances the clarity and effectiveness of the final product. Prewriting helps to clarify the purpose and audience of the document, laying the groundwork for a structured and coherent draft. In contrast, other stages like editing and proofreading focus on refining the content after the initial draft has been created, not on the groundwork needed before writing begins. Finalizing refers to the completion stage where the document is polished and prepared for submission or distribution, again occurring after the drafting phase. Thus, prewriting is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the material that informs the writing process.