DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LINEAR WRITING AND HYPERTEXT WRITING

Writing for a website is a big difference from writing the traditional linear paper. A website requires not only an interesting content but also a design that grabs the attention of the readers. A website is design for exploration, therefore it shouldn’t constrain the reader from one page to another. The website essentially unfolds through the reader. Therefore, each page has to be concise and succinct; it can’t meander from one point to the other. Each page requires a character of its own and that is what separates the website from a paper in an aesthetic manner.

In a linear essay, one an argument must be established in the beginning of the paper. In its essence, it has to have a thesis or an argument to propel the paper. This is where one can argue the critical thinking shows as oppose to a website. A linear paper requires impartiality. It is not representing any certain views and in most cases, it usually only has one interpretation.

"Critical thinking is the use of those cognitive skills or strategies that increase the probability of a desirable outcome. It is used to describe thinking that is purposeful, reasoned and goal directed - the kind of thinking involved in solving problems, formulating inferences, calculating likelihoods, and making decisions when the thinker is using skills that are thoughtful and effective for the particular context and type of thinking task. Critical thinking also involves evaluating the thinking process - the reasoning that went into the conclusion we've arrived at the kinds of factors considered in making a decision. Critical thinking is sometimes called directed thinking because it focuses on a desired outcome." (Diane F. Halpern)

A linear essay requires critical thinking where there is an objective. That is to prove point that evokes a certain mindset. In most cases, the thesis already shows the gist of the paper. A conclusion in front, which creates a certain mindset entering when reading the paper. In a website, the writing may be more personal. It usually tries to be evocative and readers are open to formulate their own opinions. In a linear writing, it has to be rather precise or where one has to “make logical inferences.” (Simon and Kaplan) A linear writing is a form of presenting empirical data. A website does the same thing in many respect but it is already influenced by the attitude of the writer. Both allows reader to criticize but a linear writing traditionally is one sided. Where the two sites differ they also meet. That is it is up to the writer and the reader to accept the information as the truth. Writers are in a much more difficult position because they many not believe in their thesis. Therefore, “Critical thinking is careful and deliberate determination of whether to accept, reject, or suspend judgment.” (Moore and Parker) Both are suppose to draw the opinions of all the readers and create an intellectual discourse about a certain matter.