Writing strategies for students and their mentors: From the perspective of a recent student

Abstract

Writing an empirical paper can be a daunting process, particularly for students writing their first manuscript. This presentation will provide advice for helping students develop a structured and goal-oriented writing routine to aid in the publishing process. First, the mentor can help foster motivation to write by guiding the student to pursue research that is tethered to the student’s intrinsic interests but still within the domain of the mentor’s expertise. Second, writing goals need to be prioritized by the student in a specific, achievable, and time-bound manner. This prioritization can occur through creating a structured, weekly outline of writing-related goals, either with guidance from the mentor or through a peer support group. Setting aside regular, protected writing time can help form a habit out of writing and ensure it does not become pushed aside for other priorities. Lastly, -timely, thorough, and constructive feedback from the mentor can speed up the writing process while conveying to the student that their work is a priority of the mentor.