Writing together in a group can be powerful. The perimeters established by the AWA are effective in keeping writers on task and focused on what matters most—the written word.

1. Writers agree to be active listeners of the written word. All conversation is focused on the writing without reference to personal experiences and anecdotes.

2. Writers agree to maintain the confidence of other writers in the workshop. Even after the writing has been presented, it still belongs to the writer.

3. All writing is treated as fiction unless the writer requests that it be treated as autobiography.
   
   In practice, this means that we keep the conversation focused on the writing, using words like “narrator” and “author” and refrain from making comments that are directed at the writer.
   
   It also gives the writer the freedom not to justify or explain. It gives the listeners the freedom to focus on text without needing to worry about anything else beyond what’s on the page.

4. The writing in the workshop is considered first-draft, just-written work; therefore, we comment on what we remember, what stays with us, what is working. There is a lot of power and a lot to be learned in the positive.

5. The leader writes along with the participants and reads that work aloud at least once in each writing session.