Dissertation Writing And Editing Guidelines

One assumption in academic writing is that there will be a lot of editing to do along the way. Although it helps to stick to a focal point in the research process, research has a way of changing paths as it meanders along. It is a process of constant discovery.

• Use a writing device – using a writing device to help you stay on track can save you a lot of time. One writing device that is especially helpful is think-plan-write-revise. The process of researching and editing is not a linear one. It is not the shortest distance between two points. Because of the discovery that is taking place along the way, there needs to be flexibility.
• Write the introduction last – it may sound counter-intuitive, but writing the introduction after writing the body of the dissertation is really a good idea. You see, the introduction is telling the reader what is coming up. How do you know what is coming up until after you have written it? This is where so many writers get stuck. So, write the body first. Then go back and write the introduction, and the conclusion.
• Follow assignment guidelines – No matter what tips and tricks you learn from other sources to write and edit your dissertation, of primary importance is following any instructions you may have received from your advisor or faculty. The assigned guidelines should be implemented first.
• Allow for multiple proofs and edits – This is a common under-sight that is commonly made by students. They think one good proof and subsequent edit will do the trick. This is not so. There could be several things that need to be changed in the first editing, and then of course another proof is required. This should be done several times to ensure correct mechanics as well as smooth flow of ideas.
• Enlist some help – this goes a long way to keeping you motivated and on course. Even if it is a fellow colleague who is also working on their dissertation, having some company on your journey will help you not give up before you’re finished, as so many candidates do.
• Use an expert editor – even if you can only afford to do this one time around, it is well worth the money spent. An expert can find things that nobody else sees. They are very thorough and experienced. An expert can really speed up the editing process for you.