Copying Quote by Tracy Kidder
“The hardest thing was learning to write. I was 13, and the only writing I had done was for Social Studies. It consisted of copying passages right out of the encyclopedia”
About This Quote
At thirteen, the writer’s only writing experience was copying encyclopedia passages for school, highlighting early challenges in learning to write.
In simple terms: Early writing was copying encyclopedia text; learning to write was hard.
Key Takeaway
Practice original writing early.
Themes
education
writing
development
challenge
Mood
reflective
determined
Type
educational
motivational
When to use this quote
- school assignments
- writing workshops
- personal journals
Key Concepts
learning processes
literacy
self‑efficacy
Questions to Reflect On
- What strategies help transition from copying to original writing?
- How can educators foster early writing confidence?
A Different Perspective
Copying may hinder creative development.
