The term 'WRITES IN THE MARGIN' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: JOTS (4 letters) and ANNOTATES (9 letters). JOTS is a verb meaning to make a brief note or remark, usually in the margins of a book or document. Annotates is also a verb meaning to make notes or comments in the margin of a book or document, usually for the purpose of providing additional information or clarification. Both terms refer to the act of writing in the margins of a book or document.