Let’s face it. Most people hate writing papers (I’m one of the few that love writing papers, but that’s a story saved for another day). Yes, I know that writing can be a drag, but writing is an essential skill that you need to have (and develop) in order to be competitive against your peers. In order to become a better writer, you will need to take the time to learn how to write well. How do we accomplish this? I have several suggestions for you. Read more to find out!
Some simple, but effective tips include:
* Practice, practice, practice! I never would have gotten A’s on my papers if I never practiced writing in my free time. You don’t have to write “practice” research papers either – even creative writing (like a short story) would suffice. Daily journal writing would also help.
* Have a friend, acquaintance, or even teacher proofread your writing. You’ll never learn from your mistakes if you aren’t aware of them.
* READ. Yes, I said the dreaded word next to “writing” and “homework”. And when I said read, I meant read actual literature such as novels and news magazines like Time and U.S. News & World Report. Don’t read fashion and gossip magazines or comics. You’ll never learn the right style of writing and expand your vocabulary from those sources.
* If you have been assigned a paper, get started on the paper the day that it is assigned. This doesn’t mean that you’ll actually need to start writing the paper, but rather it means that you should think about the topic. Write a summary of ideas that would help you get started and organized.
* For the rough draft, start writing it at least a week before the assignment is due. This way, you’ll leave yourself plenty of time for revisions and to take breaks from writing.
* Lastly, remember that writing doesn’t need to be an agonizing process. It can be fun, but only if you stay open-minded and positive about writing.
On another note, the Study Hut would like to wish you all a happy and safe Thanksgiving with your loved ones. We leave you with these wise words:
May your stuffing be tasty
May your turkey plump,
May your potatoes and gravy
Have never a lump.
May your yams be delicious
And your pies take the prize,
And may your Thanksgiving dinner
Stay off your thighs!
– Unknown
