Writing often demands that the writer venture into new territory,

• so the writer is often an explorer—like Lewis and Clark exploring the Lousiana Purchase.

Just like Lewis and Clark followed rivers whenever possible, the writer may have a method that guides his or her research.

• Of course, having a method of exploration does not mean that one knows where they are going.

Being an explorer also involves writing for self, usually in the form of drafting or sketching a record of the things you discover while exploring (or researching).