By Maribel Hernandez, PhD Candidate, Addiction Neuroscience
A blank word document and a flickering cursor, time and time we find ourselves overwhelmed at the task of writing. Whether you are in the beginning stages or nearing the finish line, these tried-and-true tips can help you gain the momentum you need to finish that project.
First, we must identify the peak hours in which we can reliably write. This can either be in the morning immediately after that first cup of coffee or at night immediately before bed. Whenever in the day it is for you, ensure that you block that time off solely for yourself, enshrine it in your schedule, and develop the habit of consistently writing.
Next, set clear expectations for yourself. What is it you want to accomplish during your writing time? Write that into your schedule. I find it helpful to break up the document and focus on one section at a time.
Additionally, writing retreats, whether formal or with friends, forces you to stay on task with a group of strangers or colleagues that are all sharing a common goal with you. Identify a space, a group of people, and take yourself out of the mundane to supercharge your productivity.
If you need that extra boost of motivation to get you going, feel free to consult with IUPUI’s University Writing Center. There, a trained consultant will help you to organize your thoughts and empty the white space on those Word documents while also providing you feedback on existing documents. Additionally, find a writing group! On campus we have a writing group that meets weekly. Joining a group can help you stay on track with your goals and provide a space to ask for feedback.
Lastly, writing is just the beginning. A last critical hint is to organize your citations. This can be accomplished by learning how to use and take advantage of one of the several citation managers that are on the market. These allow you to gather the papers you have read and cited to create your bibliography readily and quickly. Some citation managers even directly interface with Microsoft Word allowing for quick in-text citations. To get help using a citation manager, you can contact your subject liaison at the library.
Remember, the first draft is never perfect and that’s ok. Keep going. I hope that this collection of tips can ease the anxieties associated with writing and help you go from blank page to getting that manuscript accepted.