...Strategies for Becoming an Effective Academic Writer COM/150 September 27, 2012 Strategies for Becoming an Effective Academic Writer • Consider how the writing process you read about in this class differs from the process you have used in the past. What specifically have you done in the past compared to what you have read about this week? In the past I never have really created a Thesis Statement, I did not even know what one really was. I use to just run with my thoughts in my writing, I always felt I explained early in the writing what I was trying to get across. After I learned greater detail of a Thesis I went back to look at my previous papers, and I noticed I never had a thesis, it was more along the lines of a point versus explaining my opinion, but I received a grade for having a proper thesis. Another thing that I picked up on was outlining. This is also completely new to me. I always thought outlining was used to just show major points of topics and sub-topics. I have also played with this a little bit, and I have realized this does make the writing process a lot easier as I am not constantly rereading a topic to look for that important point I want to get across to my audience. In the past I have always knew what I wanted to write about, and knew how I wanted to get it across to the readers. I always thought I was a good writer as previously I have never had a Defense Attorney attack my report in a criminal proceeding; I have never left room...
Words: 1038 - Pages: 5
...vitality and velocity. Coming to the New Orleans PhD residency was an eye opener. This residency allowed the writer with the motivation to want to complete her PhD. Understanding the pride that one receives when completing a PhD was something this writer wants. This residency reminded the writer why she was completing her PhD, which is to promote social change. Upon completion of a PhD comes responsibility. Most students do not complete their PhD “just because. “ It is completed because they want to promote social change. They see a problem and instead of recognizing the problem and doing nothing, they recognize the problem and want to find a solution. This writer works with individuals with severely and persistently mentally ill. This writer has been working in this field for approximately six years; starting as a mental health worker and moving up to a clinical therapist. Her overall goal is to be an advocate for those who cannot advocate of themselves. This writer thought becoming a clinical therapist would help and it has, but to make the changes she wants, she will have to be a apart of the administration and getting her PhD will help her make the transition to help her pursue her overall goals. Three distinguishing behaviors and practices this doctoral student can identify in development are awareness, patience, and perseverance. This student is becoming more aware of her development. She is starting to think at a higher level and is developing a scholarly voice...
Words: 1092 - Pages: 5
...Women's Health The purpose of this paper is to provide information on health and a particular health policy by researching the internet. The writer of this paper has chosen the topic Women’s Health, with special interest in Emergency Contraception. The writer will explain some of the challenges women face in the health care industry and provide details on emergency contraception. Lastly, the writer will identify the stakeholders that are affected by this topic. One of the major consumers in the health care industry are women. Women play major roles in health care. Women are often the decision makers for their family when it relates to health. Compared to men, women have greater needs within the health care system. Women also have to face the challenges of child birth and all the health concerns that may be associated with giving birth. In addition, women face challenges of being the head-of-household, single mothers, and financial decision makers. The choice of becoming pregnant is a decision women of all ages are making daily. In cases where birth control has failed or protection is not used Emergency Contraception is available. Emergency contraception (EC)-- also known as the “morning after pill,” is a form of contraception that can be used shortly after sexual intercourse to prevent unintended pregnancy(Kaiser, 2010). EC is not intended to be used as a regular form of birth control. EC is a pill that is used to prevent unwanted pregnancy before it happens rather than later...
Words: 546 - Pages: 3
...through the sitting of the performance. When writing short plays, the play writer has to inform and entertain the audience in 5-10 minutes to get their point across. There are challenges for short play writers like developing characters as well as trying to develop the plot in such a small amount of time. There are also benefits of writing short plays like keeping the audience’s attention throughout the whole play rather then the audience sitting bored through a full play, they also take less time to write, so the play writer could get more than one story done a year for their publisher. In the plays Sure Thing and The Philadelphia in David Ives’, All In The Timing, David Ives demonstrates how he succeeds as a short play writer. Ives uses techniques like repetition and rhythm in both of these plays to inform and entertain his audience....
Words: 751 - Pages: 4
...misunderstood in any type of writing can be one of the biggest factors in how credible you are and if the message you are conveying will have the impact that is intended to make. As a graduate level writer, your technical vocabulary and phrases will play a vital role for difficult or intricate ideas, which should be conveyed in a short and concise manner (Beins & Beins, 2012, para. 9). That being said graduate-level writing generally follows a specific format that can be understood universally (Beins & Beins, 2012, p. 3). This specific and technical format displays one of the differences between the other forms of writing. Other styles of writing that are less formal usually accommodate the content as well as the artistic style of the text (Beins & Beins, 2012, p. 3). Taking the artistic less formal route for writing will allow the reader to understand the message in a less confusing method for virtually any level of understanding. The technical jargon that graduate-level writings entail seem to be one of the important distinctions between it and other writings and their intended reader. Communication in writing can be challenging for the writer if the steps needed to be efficient are not being paid attention to. The first thing that you should keep in mind when communicating in an effective written form is the reader (Beins & Beins, 2012, p. 6). Personally I have come across this problem unintentionally due to the...
Words: 1179 - Pages: 5
...Is Google Making Us Stupid? This article has a very strong grasp on effective writing, in order to explain, you have to understand what effective writing is. What is effective writing? In simple words, effective writing is a piece or writing that immediately involves the reader’s interest and carries the reader through to the final paragraph with no loss of concentration. Some may call it a narrative hook, designed to catch a reader’s attention with a great title but, as the reader reads on they come to find themselves lost having no understanding of what they have just read. As I sat down to write this review I had to make sure the document followed certain guidelines. Is the document able to achieve the purpose it’s intended for and, is the document able to get it across effectively? Is Google Making Us Stupid? At the beginning of the article, the writer uses a very catchy hook to draw the reader. When you ask a question with such great magnitude the reader has a hard time not to investigate. The article then goes on to talk about how technology has changed how we process information and, how we stop using our brains and traded it in for a computer. Technology today is far more advanced than it has been in the last 20 years and it will continue to advance further more in the following years. When reading this I began to question myself, is technology making me stupid? Looking over the past years at how much things have changed, I am inclined to agree that technology...
Words: 838 - Pages: 4
...My overall impression is that for a strong argument, the essay must be well structured. In a way, I see that the very foundation is the overall usage of language. As a writer, I believe that my language usage is very important to me because it’s a way to communicate to the readers through the means of writing. First off, one of the main section that I have come across would be “Language That Builds Common Ground.” I strongly believe that it’s very important to build a solid relationship with the audience. By doing so, the audience has a better understanding of what the writer is trying to convey. Also, it is noted that I should try to avoid assumption about gender, race, and ethnicity. For example, instead of saying fireman, it should be firefighter....
Words: 417 - Pages: 2
...Scientific paper is an effective medium to update professionals in any career regarding new research discoveries. An effective paper is clear, simple, and accurate. It does not portray any bias or subjectivity towards information being presented. Being correct grammatically and written flawlessly are additional characteristics of a compelling professional paper. Another important aspect is proofreading. Proofreading several drafts allows any necessary changes need to be made in a paper for it to be efficient. It should be free of unnecessary details by providing only topic related information from introduction to results. Clear language, without irrelevant jargon, in a paper allows reader to follow information easily and to understand...
Words: 367 - Pages: 2
...Running head: Personal Wellness Personal Wellness Grand Canyon University PCN 303 October 30, 2011 Personal wellness is not limited to the client. Wellness must be a priority of the professional as well. One’s approach to personal wellness must be holistic to include emotional, physical and spiritual health, which in turn helps one to obtain well balanced relationships. An effective counselor takes care of self in order to be prepared to deal with the stresses of the profession. There are many aspects and variables to counseling, without personal wellness one cannot have the stability to achieve longevity in the industry. People in this fast paced culture think of mind, body and spirit individually, rather than as an integrated system that affect and complement one another. This approach has compartmentalized our bodies and consequently our health. This writer must view health in its totality to remain effective in a highly demanding field. First a look at the physical aspect of health. To remain physically healthy one must maintain a healthy diet and engage in regular exercise. Eating healthy and a regular schedule of physical activity helps the body fight off infections and diseases. Good physical health promotes a healthy lifestyle free of high risk behaviors. A counselor’s behaviors will be evidence of healthy living to a client. Good physical health can reduce stress and anxiety which in return promotes good mental-health. The integration and relationship...
Words: 862 - Pages: 4
...Strategic Plan, Part I: Conceptualizing a Business BUS475 Integrated Business Topics May 15, 2013 My business idea is about an online publishing network for new writers, with access to editing services, marketing services, design and branding services. A ‘do-it-yourself’ is the future of publishing. By starting small, working on an initial author as a trial basis, we can discover the intricacies within the markets, using constant research and upgrading the process as technology grows. A channel where writers can find the trustworthy resources they need in one place. Jones Publishing will provide the services by connecting writers with reputable professionals. With so many niches within the writing industry, Jones Publishing will focus on non-fiction writing for young adults and adults in the genres of mystery, thrillers, romance, and science fiction. Being an on-line publishing house, Jones Publishing will invest in the network infrastructure to channel information, a smart front page that will allow for easy use for the clients. Quick access for requested content. Professional outlines to ensure clients the professional nature of the site. Professional look, business minded for the author/artist that doesn’t think in a business sense. We’re a small firm of three with projected contracts in marketing services, editing services, accounting services, agent services etc. The author can focus on what they do best and leave the business side to us. We can connect agent...
Words: 1311 - Pages: 6
...Gun control is becoming a more prevalent topic of discussion due to the increasing number of mass shootings each year. This article confronts the topic of gun control and delivers an interesting twist on someone’s liberal views. Most liberals believe guns should be outlawed or heavily regulated. The intriguing part of this article is the idea that a liberal owns a gun. Naturally, people with democratic views believe that guns should not be in the hands of the public. The argument has an interesting twist due to this unlikely scenario. The writer begins his essay stating he is “devoutly Democratic” and lives in Texas. He owns many different types of pistols and is looking to buy a shotgun. He states he loves to fire guns and exercise his rights as an American. Among the many reasons to own firearms, the author says the biggest reason is to protect his family. He was introduced to firearms while writing a novel where guns were used...
Words: 980 - Pages: 4
...career. A well-designed plan includes specific career and education goals as well as an action plan for achieving those goals. For a Professional Development Plan to be effective, continual evaluation needs to be conducted to monitor personally growth and to ensure that the intended goals are met. Ultimately, failing to plan is the same as planning to fail. This paper is written from the viewpoint of a beginning teacher on her ideal vision for the future. Of course such a teacher will need to modify her goals as the circumstances and experiences demand, but the essay will present what her projected plan of action for her upcoming career will be. Setting goals is a critical aspect of creating a professional development plan. The writer of this paper has set many educational and professional long-term and short-term goals for herself. In the next five years, the writer aims to complete both her Associate’s degree and Bachelor’s degree in the field of Elementary Education. More long-term goals, which may take 10 years or more, include continuing education all the way up to a Doctorate’s degree, teaching a variety of grades from kindergarten to 12th grade, and eventually becoming a school principle, or possibly even a superintendent of schools. Although achieving these goals will definitely not be easy, the writer is determined to stay focused and overcome any and all obstacles that may stand in her way. The steps that make up the path toward the achievement of these goals can be...
Words: 2282 - Pages: 10
...December 29, 2015 Entry 1: ME, A WRITER? Attitude: After reading chapters 1 and 2, I realize how important each strategy in this course will be to my learning objectives. I was able manage my time more effectively by using organization skills, keeping track of deadlines and taking important notes, this course has thought me how to avoid procrastination, and I was excited to see how well I understood and manage my coursework proficiently. I integrated new idea that will help me to become a better writer and will also be useful in my other courses. I had a great learning experience and with this opportunity I will be able to implement creative strategies for learning. After taking this course I now have a clear understanding of how beneficial it is to read and comprehend the information as well as how to become an effective writer. As a result, I believe that the concepts theories, and practical examples provided in this course will help me to become a successful learner. I felt as sense of excitement as I complete my daily writing objectives, and to see how rewarding it has been as a writer. Inventory: After completing the learning style inventory, it gave me a clear understanding of the type of learner and writer I am. I realize that I accomplish more when I work alone as an independent learner and I believe my strategy of learning helps me to avoid unnecessary distractions. I’m able to figure out the information that’s been illustrated which will allow...
Words: 2330 - Pages: 10
...Strategies for Becoming an Effective Academic Writer The writing process that I used in the past was completely different from what I have learned to use in this class. In the past my teacher just taught us to get a piece of paper and start writing on our topic that we chose. Since I have started this class, I am learning how to correctly write an essay or any paper. I now know that there are different steps in the writing process that you have to follow to write an excellent paper or essay. I have learned that you have to understand the instructions of the assignment identify the purpose and analyze your audience when writing your paper. Drafting is the easiest step in the writing process for me to complete. Drafting is the easiest for me because to me it is easy to research information for a topic. There are plenty of resources that you can use to find information on any topic. Creating a thesis statement is simple because you are only stating your opinion on the subject of your paper. Outlining is also simple because you are gathering all your information into an outline. Documenting sources would be the easiest because you are just putting together your reference page, showing were you researched all of the information for your paper. The step that is the most difficult in the writing process is prewriting. Prewriting is the most difficult for me because you don’t know what you are going to write about. You have to decide what or who you want to write about. You really have...
Words: 327 - Pages: 2
...The goals for this course as a writing is to know different aspect of writing. Writing helps to pass the information from generation to generation. Most writing has a goal or purpose to explain, to inform, to persuade, and so on. The effective writer achieve their objectives. Writing helps for the exploration of writing in different areas. It also provides the concept of becoming a self-reflective writer, and issues surrounding writing in twenty-first century. In university career we expect writing is a powerful tool both for writing and for demonstrating learning. We use writing to explore course material generally learn more and get higher grades as writing is an effective way to become more involved with our course material. Similarly in professional career almost all jobs expect writing. We frequently list writing as one of the most important skills in job candidates. We will be expected to hire only if we can write and speak clearly and effectively, think critically, solve problem efficiently, work well in terms, and use technology thoughtfully. In personal life, we expect writing is most important of all. We write to the people who are significant to us-whether on paper or in cyberspace-to accomplish life’s daily tasks and to fulfill our needs. As for an academic paper writing is generally concerned with grades. So in order to get good grades writing should be impressive to examiner, writing should include topics describing its parts, its advantages and disadvantages...
Words: 355 - Pages: 2
