Finding connections between ideas
Freewriting is not only useful at the ideas stage but is also a fantastic tool for making connections in the structure of your work.
When the blank page is your friend
I’m always reading about the tyranny of the blank page, the terror of starting something new. But once you’ve got going, when you’re drafting, and especially when you’re editing, the blank page can be your friend. When I can’t see…
A page, a paragraph, a sentence: keeping your focus
Sometimes, it's hard to see the wood for the trees in your writing. Here's a way of achieving an overview of your project to help to keep you on track.
Get on with it
Writing may be hard mental work but the graft and the craft need to be enjoyed too.
How to be your own editor
If you hate the thought of editing your work, break down the task into manageable chunks and keep in mind that every editorial task you carry out will improve your writing.
Let your unconscious do the work
This is how to harness the power of your unconscious to help you with writing assignments and problem solving in general.
Paragraphs: stepping stones through your argument
Paragraphs are like stepping stones across a river - your reader steps from one paragraph to the next to follow the flow of the argument.
Keep It Simple, Stupid!
It's best to write in a way that is simple, direct and comprehensible, so that your argument shines through.
Getting quality feedback on your work-in-progress
It is vital to get quality feedback on your manuscript by approaching the right person for each aspect of your writing: an expert on the subject to check the content; your supervisor or a colleague to check the argument; a trusted friend with good writing skills to check the grammar and punctuation.
Just do it
If you find it hard to start writing, don't worry. Just start by scribbling down your ideas to get into the flow. You can rewrite and edit your work later to ensure it is accurate.
