Writing improves thinking. More parts of the brain are activated when using information in productive language and sensemaking. in general. Writing improves thinking similar to how models help us understand things. When we write, it forces us to think carefully. More parts of the brain are activated when using information in productive language and sensemaking.
There is evidence of these techniques being used professionally. Some software developers will use pen and paper to sketch out how their software should work before working on the computer [citation needed]. This is in order to reduce distractions as well as carefully work through gaps in thinking. In his advice to young mathematicians, Gian-Carlo Rota (1997) suggests publishing the same work in multiple places, gradually improving the ideas and writing with each iteration. Not only does this get their name out there and increase the number of publications, but will eventually lead to higher quality publications in higher impact journals. Many online content creators also use this quantity-first, quality-later approach to publishing (Evans, 2023). While primarily framed as a tool to promote our work, it also has the benefit of helping us to understand our work better.