Noting that (1) current research suggests that technology may contribute to improved instruction in writing but it does not do so automatically, and (2) while teachers may successfully employ computers with their writing students, their choices of methods remain critical, this paper surveys computer approaches and appropriate software for effective writing instruction. These include: prewriting software, composing tools, editing and revising approaches, and instructional software for writing skills. In addition, the paper briefly reviews new areas related to computer technology--desktop publishing, telecommunications, and electronic bulletin boards. The methods presented represent a composite of approaches developed by national leaders in computer writing instruction from the National Council of Teachers of English and the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication. (Author/SKC)