College writing requires several key skills and abilities. These include conducting research, reading complex texts critically by separating fact from opinion, understanding key concepts in different disciplines, and developing strategies for synthesizing and analyzing new information. There are also various types of writing assignments that students may encounter, such as closed, semi-open, and open assignments, each with their own characteristics. Overall, academic writing is characterized by clear evidence of critical thinking, a rational approach relying on facts over emotions, and being written for a logical reader.