Objective: You will write an explanatory text about a skill or technique that contributes to a successful project. Follow the steps below to complete your assignment in manageable chunks.

Question

Step 1: Choose a Skill or Technique- Think about skills or techniques that help in completing projects.
Task: Write down your chosen skill or technique.

Step 2: Create a Thesis Statement- A thesis statement is a sentence expressing the main idea of your text.
Task: Write your thesis statement based on the skill or technique you chose.
Example: [Skill] is essential for successful projects because [reason 1], [reason 2], and [reason 3]

Step 3: Research Your Topic
Find 2-3 reliable sources that provide information on your chosen skill or technique.
Sources can include books, articles, or reputable websites.
Task: List the sources you found and make sure they are relevant to your topic.

Step 4: Use a template to organize your thoughts.
Task: Fill out the template with the main points you want to cover in your paper. Brainstorming Template and MLA Essay Format Template

Step 5: Write Your Introduction- Introduce your topic and include your thesis statement.
Task: Write a draft of your introduction.

Step 6: Write the Body Paragraphs (2-3)
Each body paragraph should focus on a specific point related to your thesis statement.
Task: For each body paragraph, include:
A topic sentence that states the main idea.
At least 3 pieces of evidence that support your main idea.
An explanation of how each piece of evidence supports your thesis.

Step 7: Write Your Conclusion- Summarize the main points you made in your body paragraphs. Restate your thesis statement in a new way.
Task: Write your conclusion.

Step 8: Review Your Paper- Check for clarity, coherence, and organization.
Ensure that your paper is written in a formal style and maintains an objective tone.
Click HERE for the rubric (you must be logged in to connexus to access the rubric)

Step 9: Format Your Paper in MLA Style: MLA Paper Template
A header with your name, instructor's name, course, and date.
A title that reflects your topic.
Proper in-text citations and a works cited page for your sources.
Task: Format your final paper according to MLA style guidelines.

Reminder: Take your time with each step and ask for help if you need it. Remember to proofread your work before submitting it. Good luck!

Click for a SAMPLE PORTFOLIO This will show you what your completed portfolio should look like. Be sure that the ideas in this sample do not make their way into your writing. This is meant to help you, not create the ideas for you:)

Possible topics:
Time management
Note-taking
Active listening
Goal setting
Collaboration and teamwork
Effective communication
Critical thinking
Problem-solving
Study techniques (e.g., flashcards, summarization)
Organizational skills
Patience

Answer 1

Step 1: Choose a Skill or Technique

Task: Write down your chosen skill or technique.
Chosen Skill: Effective Communication

Step 2: Create a Thesis Statement

Task: Write your thesis statement based on the skill or technique you chose.
Thesis Statement: Effective communication is essential for successful projects because it fosters clarity, enhances collaboration, and minimizes misunderstandings.

Step 3: Research Your Topic

Task: List the sources you found and make sure they are relevant to your topic.

• The Art of Communicating by Thich Nhat Hanh – A book that explores the nuances of effective communication in personal and professional contexts.
• “Communication Skills for Project Success” by Linda A. Hill, published in the Harvard Business Review – An article that discusses the role of communication in project management.
• “The Importance of Effective Communication in Project Management” from Project Management Institute (PMI) – A reputable website that outlines communication strategies for successful projects.

Step 4: Use a template to organize your thoughts.

Task: Fill out the template with the main points you want to cover in your paper.

Brainstorming Template:

1. Introduction

   • Define effective communication
   • Introduce thesis statement

2. Body Paragraph 1: Fosters Clarity

   • Topic Sentence: Effective communication fosters clarity among team members.
   • Evidence 1: Clear communication reduces ambiguity in project objectives.
   • Evidence 2: Well-defined roles and responsibilities enhance focus.
   • Evidence 3: Regular updates keep everyone aligned with project goals.
   • Explanation: These points illustrate how clarity improves efficiency and reduces errors.

3. Body Paragraph 2: Enhances Collaboration

   • Topic Sentence: Effective communication enhances collaboration among team members.
   • Evidence 1: Open channels of communication encourage idea sharing.
   • Evidence 2: Collaborative platforms allow for real-time feedback.
   • Evidence 3: Team-building activities improve interpersonal relationships.
   • Explanation: Collaborative environments foster a sense of belonging, which can drive project success.

4. Body Paragraph 3: Minimizes Misunderstandings

   • Topic Sentence: Effective communication minimizes misunderstandings that can derail projects.
   • Evidence 1: Consistent messaging prevents mixed signals.
   • Evidence 2: Active listening techniques promote mutual understanding.
   • Evidence 3: Documentation of communications provides clarity and reference points.
   • Explanation: Reduced misunderstandings lead to fewer conflicts and smoother project execution.

5. Conclusion

   • Summary of main points.
   • Restate thesis in a new way.

Step 5: Write Your Introduction

Task: Write a draft of your introduction.
Effective communication is a foundational skill that significantly contributes to the success of any project. In a world where collaboration is critical, the ability to convey ideas clearly and foster open dialogue among team members cannot be underestimated. Whether it’s through verbal exchanges, written correspondence, or non-verbal cues, effective communication facilitates a shared understanding and cooperative spirit essential for project completion. Effective communication is essential for successful projects because it fosters clarity, enhances collaboration, and minimizes misunderstandings.

Step 6: Write the Body Paragraphs (2-3)

Task: Write out body paragraphs based on the outline provided.

Body Paragraph 1: Fosters Clarity

Effective communication fosters clarity among team members. First, clear communication reduces ambiguity in project objectives, allowing everyone to work towards the same goals without confusion. According to Linda A. Hill in her article "Communication Skills for Project Success," articulating objectives clearly leads to increased productivity as team members understand their tasks and priorities. Additionally, well-defined roles and responsibilities enhance focus; team members know what is expected of them. Lastly, regular updates keep everyone aligned with project goals, preventing individual efforts from straying from the established path. These points emphasize that clarity is instrumental in improving efficiency and reducing the likelihood of errors during project execution.

Body Paragraph 2: Enhances Collaboration

Effective communication enhances collaboration among team members. Open channels of communication encourage idea sharing, leading to innovative solutions and improved project outcomes. The Project Management Institute highlights the importance of collaborative platforms that allow for real-time feedback, facilitating prompt adjustments and fostering a culture of teamwork. Furthermore, team-building activities improve interpersonal relationships, creating a supportive environment where members feel comfortable voicing their thoughts. These aspects demonstrate that effective communication creates a collaborative atmosphere conducive to project success.

Step 7: Write Your Conclusion

Task: Write your conclusion.
In conclusion, effective communication is a critical component of successful projects. By fostering clarity, enhancing collaboration, and minimizing misunderstandings, it establishes a solid foundation that allows project teams to thrive. As communication becomes increasingly important in the modern workplace, prioritizing this skill will lead to improved project outcomes and a more cohesive team dynamic. The ability to communicate effectively not only contributes to the success of individual projects but also builds a culture of open dialogue and collaboration within organizations.

Step 8: Review Your Paper

Task: Check for clarity, coherence, and organization.

• Ensure transitions between paragraphs are smooth.
• Verify that all main points are well-supported and clearly presented.
• Maintain a formal and objective tone throughout the text.

Step 9: Format Your Paper in MLA Style

Task: Format your final paper according to MLA style guidelines.

• Header: Your Name, Instructor's Name, Course, Date
• Title: The Crucial Role of Effective Communication in Project Success
• In-text citations and a works cited page will be prepared based on the sources used above.

Works Cited (to be formatted in MLA style):

• Hill, Linda A. "Communication Skills for Project Success." Harvard Business Review.
• Hanh, Thich Nhat. The Art of Communicating. HarperOne, 2013.
• “The Importance of Effective Communication in Project Management.” Project Management Institute (PMI).

Make sure to proofread for any final adjustments! Good luck with your assignment!