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Academic Writing Note

This document provides a foundational guide for M.Phil. students on academic writing, focusing on assessing writing abilities, critical skills, and the iterative nature of the writing process. It emphasizes the importance of clarity, coherence, and appropriate vocabulary, along with the ethical implications of authorship. Additionally, it highlights the use of linking words and precise verbs to enhance the quality of academic writing.

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Dilip Sharma
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4 views3 pages

Academic Writing Note

This document provides a foundational guide for M.Phil. students on academic writing, focusing on assessing writing abilities, critical skills, and the iterative nature of the writing process. It emphasizes the importance of clarity, coherence, and appropriate vocabulary, along with the ethical implications of authorship. Additionally, it highlights the use of linking words and precise verbs to enhance the quality of academic writing.

Uploaded by

Dilip Sharma
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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# Detailed Note for M.Phil.

Students on Academic Writing

## 1.1. Starting to Write

### 1.1.1 Assessing the Current Writing Ability

Before embarking on academic writing, it’s essential to evaluate your current writing skills. This self-
assessment helps identify strengths and areas for improvement. Consider factors such as clarity,
coherence, grammar, and adherence to academic conventions. Tools like writing rubrics and feedback
from peers or mentors can be useful for this evaluation.

### 1.1.2 Critical Skills and Attitudes for a Writer

Effective academic writing requires a blend of critical thinking, creativity, and perseverance. Key attitudes
include:

- **Curiosity**: A desire to explore and understand topics deeply.

- **Open-mindedness**: Being willing to consider different perspectives and feedback.

- **Discipline**: Maintaining a consistent writing schedule and meeting deadlines.

Skills include:

- **Analytical skills**: Ability to dissect arguments and evidence.

- **Organizational skills**: Structuring thoughts logically.

- **Editing and revision skills**: Recognizing the importance of refining your work.

## 1.2. Defining and Understanding Academic Writing

### 1.2.1 The Iterative Continuous Nature of Academic Writing

Academic writing is not a linear process; it is iterative. Writers often go back and forth between drafting,
revising, and seeking feedback. This continuous cycle allows for deeper analysis and refinement of ideas.
### 1.2.2 Who is an Author?

In academic contexts, an author is someone who contributes original ideas and findings to a body of
knowledge. Understanding authorship involves recognizing intellectual ownership and the ethical
implications of writing, including citation practices and plagiarism.

### 1.2.3 Metaphors for Academic Writing

Metaphors can help conceptualize the writing process. For instance, viewing writing as a journey
emphasizes exploration and discovery, while comparing it to a conversation highlights the importance of
dialogue with readers and other scholars.

### 1.2.4 Language Focus - 1: The Vocabulary Shift—Verbs/Nouns/Other Stylistic Features

Academic writing often requires a shift from everyday language to more formal vocabulary. This includes
the use of specific verbs (e.g., “analyze,” “discuss”) and nouns (e.g., “analysis,” “discussion”) that convey
precise meanings. Understanding stylistic features enhances clarity and professionalism in writing.

### Language Focus - 2: Linking Words and Phrases

Linking words and phrases (e.g., “furthermore,” “however,” “in addition”) are crucial for coherence and
flow in academic writing. They help to connect ideas and guide the reader through the argument.

## 1.3. Advancing and Retreating in Academic Writing

### 1.3.1 Language Focus - 3: Verbs in Defining and Naming / Mid-Position Adverbs

In academic writing, precise verbs are used to define concepts (e.g., “constitutes,” “entails”). Mid-
position adverbs (e.g., “often,” “generally”) help in providing nuance to claims and should be used
judiciously to avoid ambiguity.

## References

- Bailey, S. (2015). *Academic Writing: A Handbook for International Students*. London: Routledge.

- Cargill, M., & O’Connor, P. (2013). *Writing Scientific Research Articles: Strategy and Steps*. New York,
NY: Wiley.

- Hammond, G. (2010). *Thoughtful Writing*. New York: Kendall Hunt.


- Hartley, J. (2008). *Academic Writing and Publishing*. London: Routledge.

- Jalongo, M. R., & Saracho, O. N. (2016). *Writing for Publication*. Indiana: Springer International
Publishing.

- Murray, R., & Moore, S. (2006). *The Handbook of Academic Writing: A Fresh Approach*. Berkshire:
McGraw Hill Open University Press.

- Swales, J. M., & Feak, C. B. (2012). *Academic Writing for Graduate Students*. Michigan: The University
of Michigan Press.

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This detailed note serves as a foundational guide for M.Phil. students to navigate the complexities of
academic writing, emphasizing critical skills, definitions, and linguistic considerations. Each section builds
towards developing a comprehensive understanding of the academic writing process.

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