drafts

Drafts are preliminary versions of documents, plans, or other projects that are not yet finalized. They are used to organize ideas, test structures, and solicit feedback. A draft typically undergoes revisions, with changes tracked across multiple iterations, from a rough draft to a working draft, and eventually to a final draft ready for publication or implementation.

In writing and publishing, drafts help authors and editors collaborate. Common forms include rough drafts and revised drafts. Version control and clear editing conventions help manage changes across copies and comment trails, supporting accountability and traceability throughout the production process.

Other common meanings include a draft of beer served from a keg or cask; a current of air moving through an opening; and the act of creating technical drawings through drafting in engineering or architecture. In government or military contexts, a draft can refer to a proposed law prepared for consideration (draft bill) or to compulsory service in a draft.

In sports, the draft is a structured process by which teams select eligible players, often held annually, with rules that determine order and eligibility. The term is widely used across contexts, but the underlying idea is a staged, provisional form that precedes a final decision or product.

The spelling "draft" and "draught" are regional variants; both convey the same broad range of meanings, with "draught" commonly used in British English for beer, air flow, and similar senses, while "draft" is prevalent in American usage.