STEMskiller: Skill Set Map for Mentors of Early Career Researchers

RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP: Academic reading and writing

[Preparing to write]

Organizing a writing project

Definition:

Academic writing is difficult, and there is no one method used for organizing writing projects. But the resources below provide specific advice for beginning a writing project, be it an article, project proposal, or dissertation. 

Useful resources on Organizing a writing project:

Kornhaber, D. for the Writing Center at Harvard University. (2000). Outlining. https://writingcenter.fas.harvard.edu/pages/outlining

Describes the process of creating an outline, with a sample outline.

Vitae. (2021). Getting started on writing your thesis. https://www.vitae.ac.uk/doing-research/doing-a-doctorate/completing-your-doctorate/writing-and-submitting-your-doctoral-thesis/getting-started

Describes steps for beginning the process of writing a doctoral dissertation, including how to analyze other dissertations written in your field. 

Tags: IPS; IA; IPS WC; IPS R; IPS IL; PSR ER; CompS

Peer Review: None

Table of contents:

1.2. Academic reading and writing


1.2.1. Preparing to write


1.2.1.1. Searching the literature
1.2.1.2. Analysis and synthesis
1.2.1.3. Critical reading
1.2.1.4. Critical thinking
1.2.1.5. Evaluating use and misuse of scientific information
1.2.1.6. Reading and interpreting graphs, plots, statistical data
1.2.1.7. Organizing a writing project
1.2.1.8. Citing correctly and reference/citation management tools
1.2.1.9. Copyright: definition, why considered important/or not important, things to consider


1.2.2. Writing specifics for different academic formats


1.2.3. Grant proposals


1.2.4. Corresponding with others

 

Author: Stephanie Krueger

Peer Reviewer(s): None

Last Updated: October 22, 2021