Writing Effectively (Module 1)

Session Summary

This session will consider the basic elements of effective academic writing and how they can be combined to ensure the best chance of success. Issues covered will include preparation (targeted literature reviewing, taking a ‘stance’ as an author, the creation of a writing plan or preliminary draft), the task of writing (having clear aims, order and structure, signposting, guiding the reader, drafting), writing style (the achievement of clarity and simplicity) and the need for a clear, logical and straightforward conclusion or ‘take-home’ message. The session will also provide an opportunity to discuss writing issues specific to particular disciplines or students. This session represents over a decade of academic writing experience packed into two hours, so please come along and take advantage!

Indicative Feedback for this Session

I applied the idea of ‘signposting’ in my recent draft. My supervisors LOVE it. Thank you so much (Canterbury Christchurch).

Thank you for the session yesterday, I have (virtually) attended two of your workshops so far and they are extremely helpful. I have read about four books on academic writing and publishing and still felt clueless [but] …you explained it clearly and I now understand (Bournemouth).

I feel so much more confident about starting to write. Thank you for explaining about starting from the desired end point and working back, that makes so much sense. And the outlining, planning, and building advice has taken the fear out of breaking the blank page. Thank you (East Anglia).

Thank you so much for sending the writing effectively session yesterday….These sessions should be seen by all students as it has really altered the way I think about approaching things and gives real strategies to help achieve the best outcome you can…I think your clarity of thought coupled with your great communication style might just be the catalyst to help me organise my material and craft a great thesis. Once again, many thanks for sharing your expertise…I am extremely grateful as I’m sure are all your other participants past and present (Kent).