You may be experiencing dissertation writer’s block, or you may be about to start your dissertation writing process. Whatever your research topic is, it will be key to keeping your dissertation as focused as possible. It’s important to remember that dissertation writing is about focusing your research on your research questions, it ‘s not about solving each and every problem of the world. You can do the latter after your oral defense. In the meantime, focus. Here are a few ways in which your writing can remain focused and relevant.
- What ‘s your purpose and who's your audience? Identify your why for engaging in your research topic, and the reasons as to why others in your field may be interested in your research. Knowing your audience will help determine the angle of your writing and the opportunities that might come after your oral defense, such as speaking engagements, book and article publications, and the like.
What aspects of your research deserve the most attention? To answer this question, it is important to understand your content, and any other research updates and writings associated with your topic. While you are deep into your research writing, others might be publishing information relevant to your research. By becoming consumed with your writing, you may forget to continue checking for relevant publications and recent findings.
Mentoring from others is key to success. There are dissertation chairs, dissertation committee members, professors, and peers who were in the same boat as you. Take the time to approach your dissertation chair, committee members, and peers. It’s important to let them know your thoughts, your anxieties, and fears. Most importantly, be ready to listen to them on ways in which they successfully overcame internal and external obstacles to their writing process. You are not alone.
Writing a dissertation can often feel isolating, but knowing that others are navigating similar challenges can be both comforting and motivating. That’s why at Empowered Group Strategies, LLC we pride ourselves in ensuring our individualized attention to your research efforts. We are equipped to support you in your dissertation writing journey from concept development, to literature review, to practicing for your oral defense. We coach you throughout the process.
Your dissertation cycle has a start and an end. Let Empowered Group Strategies, LLC help you finish the race.
