Predicting essay quality from search and writing behavior

Few studies have investigated how search behavior affects complex writing tasks. We analyze a dataset of 150 long essays whose authors searched the ClueWeb09 corpus for source material, while all querying, clicking, and activity was meticulously recorded. model effect on essay quality using path analysis. Since boil-down build-up strategies identified in previous research been found to affect behavior, we each strategy separately. Our analysis shows that process contributes significantly through both direct mediated effects, author's moderates this relationship. models explain 25–35% variation rather simple characteristics alone, fact has implications engines could personalize result pages Authors' associated searching patterns differ, producing differences quality. In nutshell: improves if harmonize—build-up writers benefit from focused, in-depth fare better with broader shallower querying strategy.