It may have seemed simple at the beginning of the semester, but thinking about writing as a A-Z process is really helpful. From my own experience, I tend to think about the next five things I have to do all at one time. Due to this, I usually end up stressing and not doing any of them. Slowing down and thinking about A and only step A helps to alleviate stress and promotes a better focus. Especially with this paper, this methodology was particularly helpful in the context of a very busy semester.
The one thing that I find particularly interesting about the A-Z methodology is that it is linear and circular at the same time. Yes, as you work through the process of writing a paper for example, you move from step A, then B, etc. While this is true, it is also circular: moving from A to B sometimes requires going back and looking at A again. This point about the A-Z methodology is a built in aspect that helps with the revision process. It forces you to revise and think about what you already wrote; moving from A to B and then C requires reworking the idea presented in step A.
This methodology ties in with Interdisciplinarity because it works with more than writing papers. Whether it be studying for a biology final or writing a research proposal, this methodology can be used to better focus attention and revise your work. I have used this methodology when I have seven biology chapters to study for a test. Working one chapter at a time, not worrying about the seventh chapter when I am on the third helps to manage time and decrease stress. It is a useful tool, that can be used across many disciplines. Moran briefly mentions this in the Conclusion of Interdisciplinarity, “[interdisciplinarity apporaches] can help people to think more creatively about the relationship between their own subject and other ways of doing things both within and outside universities.” I found this quote fitting for the A-Z methodology because it is not a process confined to college. Anyone, in any discipline, anywhere can use this process. The point about thinking more creatively is also pertinent- concerning yourself with each step at a time ensures that each step will receive the utmost attention. Therefore, step A will as thought out and creative as possible, as will step B, C, D, etc.
It may take a while and a lot of time to follow the A-Z process, but from my experience, it works.