Jack Selzer convinces his reader that his analysis of Kenneth Nelson’s writing processes are based on extensive, careful observation by writing a review of his investigation which included collecting pieces of his work, observing him while he worked, interviewing him extensively during his writing processes, and analyzing his finished work. Jack observes Nelson’s work environment, and even goes so far as to suggest changes so that Nelson will explain why he has his work environment the way that he does. Jack observes Nelson writing in said work environment, and then interviews him extensively. After each writing session, Jack asks Nelson to answer a series of written questions for a tape recorder.
Jack also gives the reader a detailed analysis of his observations and findings. He found that Nelson spent 80% of his time inventing material and arranging it. He also found that Nelson reused material he had previously written for other documents. He discusses how Nelson rarely changes his outline once he begins to write, that he writes his first draft on paper, and that he spends less that 1/5 of his time drafting. Finally, Nelson spends less than 5% of his time revising his work. Revising for him consists simply of correcting spelling, grammatical errors, and deleting any words and sentences not needed, as Nelson’s work is very concise. Thus, Nelson spends most of his time on inventing and arranging and creating his outline. Also, Jack observes that Nelson is a linear writer as he rarely revisits a stage once he has completed it. For example, once he reaches the revision stage he makes simple spelling and grammar corrections, but does not change content or rewrite.