I compiled the following quickie list of paper-writing tips for a co-worker who is taking online classes and has been away from paper-writing for a while. The whole process seemed difficult for her, so these links cover a broad range of items. Some of the links to academic papers at the end of this list may have good clues, especially with selecting thesis statements. I’ve not vetted all these, but they’re a start. The little comments for each are reproduced from my original email to her that contained these links.
A good book I recommend is this:
Amazon.com: Books: Thinking on Paper
–Just read the first half (the second half is all about the Latin names for types of logical arguments). it sets forth a very good simple process for building a piece of writing from the ground up so that it isn’t as painful as you think.
Writing tips compiled by Mike Shea
–Here’s the PDF version
Poynter Online - The Writing Tools
–Just scan the list and read whatever article is of interest. His focus is on journalism so his approach might conflict with academic writing. but the writing tips are good and solid. You’ll be able to devise some simple rules to help you in your actual writing.
43 Folders: Hack your way out of writer’s block
–Entertaining list of bullet points and good comments. but lookit the next link too.
Google Groups : 43 Folders
–Advice on paper writing from a grad student
TOC About Writing
–I’m also interested in fiction writing and this page has mainly tips for that side of the house.
50 Strategies for Making Yourself Work
–A great page of tips to bust procrastination.
Study Guides and Strategies
–Scroll down to the writing sections, but good general advice to students.
Google Search: tips academic writing papers
–The search i used to dig up some of the links in this mail.
Timed Essays: Planning and Organizing in a Crunch
–This is for when you’re writing for an in-class test, but some good advice.
Thesis Statements: What are They?
-This might be more practical for your needs right now. BE SURE to click on the Related Links in the right sidebar. You might get good ideas there.
Academic Writing Handouts – Dennis G. Jerz
–The top page from which the previous two links were drawn.
Sally Slacker Writes a Paper (Dennis G. Jerz, Seton Hill University)
–I haven’t read all this but I like the title!
Tips for Writing Academic Essays and Term Papers in Philosophy at Erratic Impact
–Good numbered tips after the intro.
Writing Help
–Ton o’ links. Don’t know how many of them are still good.
Academic Center :: Writing Tips
–More basic tips on academic writing. After you’ve read about 10 of these kinds of pages, you’ll notice they start repeating themselves.
Checklist
–A pretty good checklist to use after you’ve written a draft.
