To determine whether basic writers revise more successfully using word processors as opposed to pen and paper, a study investigated the quality of revision of approximately 100 college basic writers in three classes at a southern university. In the fall semester, word processors were used in each of the three classes once every two weeks. In the spring semester, the three classes were split into two experimental groups (one used word processors twice a week in class, the other used them once a week outside of class) and one control group that did not use word processors at all. The first and final drafts of an assigned narrative paragraph were evaluated for all groups in both semesters. Comparisons of results from the fall semester indicated no significant differences in the quality of the three groups' revisions. For the spring semester, however, the experimental groups demonstrated a significantly higher quality of revision than did the control group. Revising on the word processor in a writing laboratory outside of class was found to produce the most significant effect on the overall quality of revision. This finding can be attributed to several possible factors--student attitude, environmental influence, and the difference in the revision process as it occurs when using the word processor. (Three pages of references are included.) (JD)