Resources for Graduate Writers
While there is a wealth of information and advice available for graduate student writers, below are some we’ve found especially useful.
Graduate writing resources
Getting the most from a writing group
Writing groups can provide motivation, social support, productive feedback, and positive peer pressure for all writers, but especially for writers who are working on long projects like dissertations, theses, or senior papers. Key to the success of any writing group is communication and shared goals among members.
Dissertation Calculator
This tool from the University of Minnesota helps students navigate the process of writing a dissertation. The Dissertation Calculator breaks down the process into manageable stages with suggested deadlines, and provides students with important resources and advice tailored to the University context. (This tool was created by the Writing Center in partnership with the University Libraries, the Center for Teaching and Learning Services, and the Center for Research on Developmental Education and Urban Literacy.)
Formatting Your Dissertation in Word
From the UMN Libraries, this website includes written tutorials on formatting your dissertation in MS Word.
Explorations of Style: A Blog about Academic Writing
Dr. Rachael Cayley’s in-depth blog, Explorations of Style: A Blog about Academic Writing, contains advice on three key principles and five key strategies for academic writers. We highly recommend the book that emerged from this blog: Thriving as a Graduate Writer: Principles, Strategies, and Habits for Effective Academic Writing, also available from the UMN Libraries!
Applying for a job
Academic and Career Development Workshops
From the U of MN Graduate School, workshops on career planning and networking; writing résumés, CVs, and cover letters; interviewing for jobs; and seeking both academic and non-academic employment.
Dr. Karen's Rules of the Academic CV
One blogger's detailed set of expectations for printed CVs.
Research Statement
This advice on writing the research statement from University of Pennsylvania Career Services includes the statement's purpose, a timeline for writing it, examples, and further resources.
Dr. Karen's Rules of the Research Statement
This blogger offers very specific advice about writing the research statement.
University resources
Academic and Professional Development
Links to internal and external resources for graduate students and postdoctoral trainees from the University of Minnesota Graduate School.