Writing Process Tips: How I Wrote my Dissertation

Writing Process Tips: How I Wrote my Dissertation

 Writing can be a challenge for some people especially writing a dissertation; while writing can come naturally for many people it takes much effort and time to perfect. Writing did not come naturally for me but I always had ideas and opinions, putting these ideas into sentences was the challenging part. After years of writing, I became more confident but nothing prepared me for writing a dissertation. While, it is a very difficult task, it is the most rewarding aspect of being a PhD student. I put together some tips that helped me along this journey: 

1.     Set a daily word count or page goal. So for instance you can set your target at 2 pages a day, or in any given day make the minimum 1 page. This means you will have anywhere between 7-14 pages a week. This puts you on track to having a chapter done every 3 to 4 weeks.

2.     Focus on just writing. This is important because sometimes we can get a bit in your own head about the quality of our work. If you focus too hard on this it can really hinder your progress, always remember, you can go back and edit after. A Professor once told me to just write and then you can always delete anything that is irrelevant or repetitive. There are moments where you write like 4 pages but only are left with 2 pages when you are done editing. There is nothing wrong with that.

3.     Focus on your arguments- One tip that is helpful is to keep your key arguments next to you. My supervisor had told me this as a tip and it really helps. When you are writing such a massive project like a dissertation, it is very easy to feel overwhelmed. Losing focus is also important, remember to keep your key arguments on a paper near you when you write.

4.     Get feedback- Your supervisor is there to help guide you and give you feedback. Do not fear sharing your work. Your supervisor is there to help you and improve your work.

5.     Remember your first draft will be the one of many drafts you will send to your committee and supervisor. Rarely do dissertations get the green light right away. It can take 6 months or more before you are ready to submit for consideration for a defense. Even then it is a waiting game before you will defend. External committee members also provide feedback to help strengthen your dissertation.  

6.     Take a break! PhD burn out is a real thing and it can be very damaging to your wellbeing. Take a break from writing, and do not be ashamed of doing so. Take time out for yourself and do activities you enjoy. A quick week or two break can really help you rejuvenate and get back to work with less stress.

7.     Mind, Body and Soul- Take care of your physical and mental health. This should always be your priority.

Make sure to enjoy the process and keep focused. You will see the finish line.

XOXO

Shukri