Frequently Asked Questions

What is the policy concerning non-undergraduates scheduling appointments?

Our first priority at the Writing Studio is to provide support to Duke undergraduate writers, although we are happy to meet with Duke faculty, graduate students, and staff on a space-available basis. To ensure that undergraduate students have first access to appointments, all other users of the Writing Studio must wait until the day of the desired appointment to sign up online. The exception to the community-use policy is that international graduate students and students in the Nicholas Masters in Environmental Management Program may also sign up for appointments in advance.

How do I use the web program for scheduling an appointment in advance?

Click on "Schedule An Appointment" on the Writing Studio home page, and then click on "Face-to-Face Appointment"or "E-Tutor Appointment." Follow the step-by-step directions. If you are an ESL student, note that you can sign up for an appointment with a tutor specially trained in working with non-native speakers.

Are there significant differences between E-Tutoring and Face-to-Face tutoring?

For information on E-Tutoring, consult our E-Tutoring FAQs page.

How do I cancel an appointment?

Click on "Schedule An Appointment" on the Writing Studio home page, and then click on "Show/Cancel My Appointments." Check the "Cancel" box next to the appointment you wish to cancel.

What if I just have a quick question? How can I get in touch with a tutor?

During the hours the Writing Studio is open, we will typically be busy meeting with students and often unable to give you an immediate response. We suggest you first try finding an answer to your question on one of the links listed on the "Resources for Writers" site on our Studio web page. If you are unable to find what you need there, you are welcome to call the Studio at 668-0901. If no one is available to answer the phone, please leave a specific message and someone will try to get back to you as soon as possible.You can also e-mail the Studio at wstudio@aas.duke.edu.

Is it all right for me to bring a take-home exam to the Writing Studio?

For take-home exams, some instructors specify whether you may or may not bring your work to the Writing Studio. If you have any questions about whether it is appropriate to get feedback from the Writing Studio on take-home exams, ask your instructor before you bring in your paper. Since your instructor will know from the conference summary that you have been here, it is your responsibility to determine whether your instructor would approve that you have discussed your exam with a tutor.

Where can I find editing and proofreading help?

If your particular need for assistance doesn't mesh with what the Writing Studio offers, you might find private, local help for hire here.

I have some suggestions for improving Writing Studio services. Where can I send them?

Please e-mail us with any suggestions.