This practical and accessible writing guide unravels the complexities of writing by presenting the writing process as a series of critical thinking decisions. In addition to coverage of the traditional modes, the text offers practice in analyzing the unique rhetorical requirements of any writing situation by showing how audience and purpose influence writing. Student and professional readings throughout the text- including fiction, poetry, advertisements, memoirs and cartoons -illustrate various writing strategies. This book presents the writing process as a series of deliberate and recursive decisions with an emphasis on audience and purpose, taking readers step-by-step through the writing process, demystifying it along the way. Concise case studies have now been added to every chapter in Section 3. Here and throughout the text these case studies show writers at work as they read, plan, draft, and revise. This edition includes more than 20 new readings and examples, with new topics range from America's obsession with cars to online education. The new pieces reflect the interests of today's readers. Our integrated coverage of electronic and online composition strategies now includes computer exercises and access to our Companion Website. Revised section on research includes an improved sample research paper, and the most recent MLA and APA documentation guidelines. For anyone interested in practical and accessible writing guides.