“Treat perfection like a process, not an achievable state. Perfectionism is crippling to productivity. I’ve known academics that can’t even start projects because of perfectionism.” – Matt Might
Good writing prioritises clear presentation of ideas with a focus on structure, logic, and function, akin to architecture rather than decoration. Classic style, which advocates simplicity, truth, and conversation-like diction, is recommended for its clarity and authority. Overly complex academic writing should be avoided in favor of minimalism and functionality to effectively convey research and…
Goal-driven motivation is the incentive to do something I know is valuable when I don’t feel like doing it at all.
“Great writing requires you to position your idea in a way that will resonate with the reader. Average writers start with what they want to say without considering how it will land with the reader. Great writers understand the journey starts with what the reader desires.” – Farnam Street
Struggling with writer’s block? Learn how to use AI tools effectively to move past blank page paralysis and create workable first drafts of your academic writing. While AI can’t replicate your unique voice, it can help you overcome writer’s block and focus on refining your ideas.
Regular short bursts of writing with distraction free text editors will add up over time more than more sporadic long sessions.
Writing to understand challenges how academics typically approach writing as a final step in research. Rather than waiting until we have complete knowledge, this post explores how writing itself can be a powerful tool for thinking and discovery, helping us make connections and clarify our understanding through the act of writing.
Tackle writing in four stages: capture high-level concepts, develop a coherent structure, craft consistent paragraphs, and write concise sentences. This structured approach makes the writing process more manageable, allowing you to focus on one element at a time and produce polished, effective work.
The early drafts of any piece of writing aren’t meant to ‘be good’. They’re about giving early drafts substance.
“Information is exchanged. Knowledge is constructed.” – Amy Rae Fox
How to Write a Lot by Paul J. Silvia is a practical guide for academics struggling to boost their writing productivity. Silvia emphasizes disciplined scheduling, self-monitoring, and overcoming perfectionism to make writing a consistent part of one’s routine. His strategies empower scholars to publish more without compromising personal time.