University of Johannesburg

Department of Social Work

ACADEMIC WRITING
TIPS
By Dr. Getrude Dadirai Gwenzi
E-mail: gettygwenzi@yahoo.co.uk
 WRITING PROCESS

• Find a process that works for you.

1. How frequently do you write?
2. How long do you write for?
3. What keeps you going?
• What works for one person might not work
for you.
 Writing Process
• What is your writing strategy?
• Process of writing an academic paper vs thesis
• Writing structure
Writing Process
 Gathering Data/Research
• What are credible sources?
A credible source for academic writing is one
whose accuracy is supported by academic peer
review and reference to a foundation of relevant
established research e.g. text books, books
published by established authors, papers in
scientific journals, scholar and official websites
 Gathering Data
• Determine what to look for in these credible
sources to research your topic and find where
your voice or argument fits in.
• Try to immerse yourself in recently published
works.
• How many sources? Depends on the nature of
the topic or academic assignment.
Organising Ideas
 Scholarly writing tips
• Work on research topics that you feel
passionate about, but also tie your passion to
the journal aim
• Unique research- what makes your research
stand out?
• Read the literature carefully and identify gaps
 Scholarly writing tips
• Collaboration
A. Choose your collaborations carefully
B. Be open
C. Non-academic/industry partners
 Staying motivated
• Writing groups
• Read a lot, but also take a break from reading
and write.
• Increase your writing skills through workshops
and seminars
• blogs.lse.ac.uk Strategies for writing in
turbulent times