Writing groups are a valuable way for writers to improve their
writing, receive feedback, gain accountability, and increase their
motivation. However, groups are only beneficial if participants
decide to join one, stay in it, and are satisfied with the outcome.
Much of what guides these decisions is based on what participants
initially expect from a group. Little is known about what potential
writing group members believe they will do in a group. The current
study offers data about writing group expectations and satisfaction
rates gathered from surveys and interviews with writing group
participants. Findings suggest that expected writing group activities
fell into four separate categories: skill-based, draft-based, timebased,
and emotion-based activities. Recommendations for writing
groups are offered based on these trends.University Writing Cente
