What does a draft refer to in writing?

A draft in writing refers to a preliminary version of a piece of writing. It is an initial attempt that allows the writer to organize thoughts, develop ideas, and establish the structure of their work. Drafts are often meant to be revised and refined before arriving at the final copy. They are important in the writing process because they enable the writer to make adjustments, improve clarity, and enhance the overall quality of the document. The nature of a draft is inherently about exploration and iteration, reflecting the organic process of developing content rather than producing a polished, finished piece.