How to organize PhD or other types of Academic Writing like a Pro
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This document discusses tools and strategies for organizing thoughts and the writing process for a PhD dissertation or thesis. It provides an agenda with three main points: 1) organizing thoughts, 2) organizing the writing process, and 3) keeping a "golden thread" throughout. Under each point, several specific tools and methods are listed, such as Evernote, Gliffy, spreadsheets, and reference management software. It emphasizes organizing materials and references for each section before beginning to write. It also stresses the importance of defining three key ideas or takeaways for readers and ensuring each section advances those ideas. Additional tips include maintaining a growth mindset and not fearing mistakes during the writing and revision process.
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How to organize PhD or other types of Academic Writing like a Pro
- 1. Exploiting Rapid Change in Technology Enhanced Learning … for Post Graduate Education Motivation, Inspiration vs Procrastination on the PhD Journey
- 2. My Writing Books Blogs Journals Dissertation Thesis Agenda – How to… 1. Organize your thoughts 2. Organize your writing process 3. Keep your “golden thread” alive Please ask questions about a set of tools as we finish that section – this will be a whirlwind tour but a blog series that is being published this week will go into more detail. NOTE: if you are viewing these slides in slideshare – a lot of live content on how the tools here all go together are both in our DoctoraNet conference area and on our blog – look for March 2-7 dates,
- 3. Organize Your Thoughts… Multiple Ways and Iteratively Cycle Through Them for Best Level of Critical Analysis 1. Evernote 2. Gliffy 3. EndNote, Mendeley or other 4. Spreadsheet 5. Slides (?) if you also present
- 5. Organize Your Thoughts in prep for writing… 1. Research Design Tool 2. General Topics in columns 3. References in reference software – groups then transposed to column A 4. Headings from models 5. Word set up for final publication before you begin 6. Reading models first just before writing 7. All materials for that section in one place. 8. Then go
- 6. Organize Your Writing Headings organized Writers and thoughts from others in spreadsheets All your “raw material” in one place If writing to a new format – look at outstanding examples and then model your first attempts after them
- 7. Revisions By yourself or with others? The beauty of peer review Difference between editing and review – when to use each Pre publication – adhere to style
- 8. Your Golden Thread What are the three things you want your reader to take away from your writing? No matter how many pages, they will only retain 3 things? Out of that 200 pages how does each section support the evolution of those three key ideas? This target – only things that support those three key points will greatly reduce the potential for your writing wavering. You keep from being redundant by plotting how each section develops the key themes from a different angle.
- 9. Your Voice Why do you do this work? What theories do you relate to? What drives you? These are the ties to your voice – over a body of work the various threads should weave a pattern for your readers. They should feel like they know you when they meet you.
- 10. Odd Thoughts… Procrastination Is your house too clean? Your email box empty? All your friends caught up on all your social media? Are you afraid of being fully engaged? Have you begun with a clear view of the end in mind and do you keep it at the forefront of your awareness? Commit to something bigger than yourself and let that pull you forward – it makes it easier to ignore small distractions.
- 11. Things to keep in mind… No Fear of Mistakes! Perfectionism holds us back and it also keeps us from empathy with others – one of life’s gifts Regular practice – get in your 10,000 hours Day dream the process, not just the ending – see yourself writing long hours, see yourself discussing hard problems Maintain a Growth Mindset
- 12. Online community is growing Phased to Help You Be More Efficient Community space Phases Maps and Interactive Technology @ inexpensive prices
- 13. What’s Up 4 Free @ DoctoralNet.com? 1. Community 2. Blog 3. 365 Daily Inspirations 4. Your personal milestone checklist – free but requires site basic registration 5. Want these slides? Give me your email or ask for them at [email protected]
- 14. Coaching Available Top professors Efficient help In support of the guidelines and decisions of your supervisors Timely feedback Supportive Environment This week we feature Dr Joanne Preston – multi year editor of organizational development journals and previous Dean for Business at several universities. Want to publish? Want to ensure your work is in the ball park with your field? Joanne is your coach.