The writing of a PhD thesis is quite often a fraught process, at worst experienced as stressful, unpleasant or lonely; at best navigated without a clear sense for what is "enough". This workshop aims to provide participants with some keys to making the process smoother and more predictable. Based on years of experience mentoring and guiding graduate students through the thesis writing process, Dr. Sgier will work with participants to build the confidence and tools necessary to successfully embark on the writing journey and to see it through. She will walk participants through some components required to set themselves up for success, from understanding expectations to freeing up (and prioritising) writing time and space, to getting and handling feedback. Dr. Sgier will also offer practical tips for getting started and putting pen to paper. She will also discuss what students can do to navigate the inevitable ebbs and flows of the process.

This workshop is designed mainly for students completing Masters’ or PhD theses; but it can also be useful for participants at later stages, looking to improve their writing productivity or moving from the PhD thesis to publications.

Outline

• What is a PhD thesis?

• Setting the stage for success

  • Planning your writing (structure, content, timeline).

    • Laying out the steps (structure, argument, timeline)

    • Getting inspiration

  • Setting up your environment

    • Making practical and mental space

    • Building a "tribe"

• Putting pen to paper

  • Where to begin

  • Managing and meeting expectations

  • Getting and dealing with feedback

  • Publishing (or not)