The prewriting phase involves deciding on the topic and purpose of an essay, which is crucial before drafting begins.
The correct answer is: prewriting. Prewriting involves generating ideas and planning the structure of the essay before actually writing the first draft. In this phase, writers contemplate topics, develop ideas, and plan the essay's overall structure.
Example: Brainstorming, freewriting, and outlining are common prewriting activities that help shape the direction of the essay.
Another key phase: Drafting involves writing the first version of the essay, while revising focuses on refining content and style.
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