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.
Learning never stops
We're all learning all the time so don't be daunted by new tasks. Anything can be mastered if you break it down into small steps - including writing skills.
Finding your voice
Finding your voice is as important for academic writers as for novelists. When writing on a subject about which you care deeply, your voice will come through loud and clear.
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.
Getting ‘distance’ from your writing
Always set aside your writing for at least 24 hours and come back to look at it with fresh eyes.
Encouraging creativity in your essay writing
When writing an essay it is easy to get so concerned about following the academic ‘rules’ that creativity goes out of the window. How can you encourage your self-expression and creativity, while still following the conventions? Here is one suggestion…
To plan or not to plan?
Are you a 'constipated' or a 'splurge' writer? Although there is no right or wrong way to write, if you are embarking on a long piece of work such as a dissertation, it is advisable to devise a tight structure before you start drafting.
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.