On Writing

When I write I have the following by my side: a grammar book, Kessler & McDonald’s When Words Collide: A Journalist’s Guide to Grammar and Style; my latest edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association; Roget’s Thesaurus; and a dictionary. 

These are suggestions for writing a dissertation that is clear, straightforward and to the point: 

• Write in the active voice in short sentences, grouped into short paragraphs. 
  
• Use headings as signposts for the reader. 
  
• Use topic sentences as introductions to paragraphs and advanced organizers as introductions to sections. • Use concepts consistently instead of synonyms. 
  
• Define terms and concepts in text. 
  
• Use lists, checklists, figures, and other devices to present information succinctly. 
  
• Keep chapters relatively short and concise. 
  
• Summarize points at the end of a chapter. 
  
• Know and follow your style manual. 
  
• Proof your documents by hand to catch items that a spell or grammar check may not catch. 
  
• Keep dated copies of previous drafts. Back up copies and put one on a CD/thumb in a safety deposit box. 
  
• If you are not a detail person, then find some one who can proof for your citation style, consistency and level of headings, and typos. 
  
• I will often start you writing on Chapter II first, then III, then I. You can’t write an introduction until you know your design. The literature Chapter 2 will often dictate the design once you see what has been done and what research is needed. 
  
• See Requirements for dissertations and electronic submission https://etd.lib.wvu.edu/ pay attention to deadlines. The committee needs the prospectus 2 weeks in advance and the final document 3 weeks in advance.