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

make me one

Answer 1

Sure! I’ll guide you through each step using the skill of Effective Communication as the focus.

Step 1: Choose a Skill or Technique

Chosen Skill/Technique: Effective Communication

Step 2: Create a Thesis Statement

Thesis Statement: Effective communication is essential for successful projects because it fosters collaboration among team members, minimizes misunderstandings, and enhances problem-solving capabilities.

Step 3: Research Your Topic

Sources:

1. "The Importance of Communication in Project Management" - Project Management Institute (PMI)
2. "Effective Communication and Teamwork" - Harvard Business Review
3. "The Role of Communication in Team Dynamics" - Journal of Business and Technical Communication

Step 4: Use a Template to Organize Your Thoughts

Main Points for Your Paper:

• Introduction

  • Define effective communication in the context of project management.
  • Present thesis statement.

• Body Paragraph 1: Collaboration

  • Topic Sentence: Effective communication fosters collaboration among team members.
  • Evidence: Examples of communication tools (e.g., Slack, email) that enhance real-time collaboration.
  • Explanation: These tools help streamline information sharing and ensure everyone is aligned on project goals.

• Body Paragraph 2: Minimizing Misunderstandings

  • Topic Sentence: Clear communication minimizes misunderstandings that can derail projects.
  • Evidence: Studies show that miscommunication can lead to project delays and increased costs.
  • Explanation: By clearly outlining expectations and project requirements, teams can avoid costly errors.

• Body Paragraph 3: Enhancing Problem-Solving

  • Topic Sentence: Effective communication enhances problem-solving capabilities within teams.
  • Evidence: Collaborative discussions allow for diverse perspectives to be heard.
  • Explanation: Diverse viewpoints can lead to innovative solutions and assist teams in overcoming obstacles.

• Conclusion

  • Summarize main points.
  • Restate the thesis in a new way.

Step 5: Write Your Introduction

Draft of Introduction: In the fast-paced environment of project management, effective communication stands out as a pivotal skill that can determine a project's success or failure. This skill encompasses not only the clarity and conciseness of messages but also the ability to listen and interact constructively with team members. Effective communication is essential for successful projects because it fosters collaboration among team members, minimizes misunderstandings, and enhances problem-solving capabilities.

Step 6: Write the Body Paragraphs

Body Paragraph 1: Collaboration Effective communication fosters collaboration among team members, which is crucial for smooth project execution. Tools such as Slack and email facilitate real-time discussions, ensuring that team members can easily share updates and insights. For instance, a project team using Slack can instantly message each other to clarify tasks or share resources, significantly enhancing their ability to work together. This immediate communication helps streamline information sharing and ensures that everyone is aligned on project goals, promoting a cohesive work environment where all members can contribute effectively.

Body Paragraph 2: Minimizing Misunderstandings Clear communication minimizes misunderstandings that can derail projects. Research shows that miscommunication leads to delays and increased costs, underscoring the importance of precision in information exchange. For example, when project requirements are outlined clearly in documentation and reinforced during meetings, team members are less likely to face ambiguity regarding their responsibilities. By prioritizing clear communication, teams can avoid costly errors, which ultimately helps maintain the project's timeline and budget integrity.

Body Paragraph 3: Enhancing Problem-Solving Effective communication enhances problem-solving capabilities within teams. Collaborative discussions allow for diverse perspectives to be shared, which can lead to innovative solutions. For instance, regular brainstorming sessions encourage team members to voice their thoughts on challenges, fostering a culture of openness that can inspire creative solutions. This exchange of ideas not only helps in overcoming obstacles but also strengthens team unity as members feel valued and heard, facilitating a more dynamic approach to addressing project issues.

Step 7: Write Your Conclusion

In conclusion, effective communication plays an integral role in the success of any project. By fostering collaboration, minimizing misunderstandings, and enhancing problem-solving capabilities, communication emerges as a cornerstone skill for team dynamics. Emphasizing effective communication allows teams to operate efficiently and effectively, ensuring that projects are completed successfully and goals are met.

Step 8: Review Your Paper

• Ensure clarity and coherence in all paragraphs.
• Check for a formal style and an objective tone.
• Verify that ideas flow logically from one point to the next.

Step 9: Format Your Paper in MLA Style

Your final paper will need:

• A header with your name, instructor’s name, course, and date.
• A title that reflects your topic, such as "The Role of Effective Communication in Successful Project Management".
• Proper in-text citations and a works cited page for your sources.

After you complete these formatting tasks, proofread your work to ensure it meets your assignment requirements. Good luck!