Thread by @sexchrlab

This semester we started a writing group in lab. We have to write:
4 Honors Thesis
1 MS Thesis
2 Comprehensive Exams (F31 style)
and papers and grants.

It seemed a little overwhelming at first, but we've broken it down. (1/n)

Step 1: We blocked out two hours every Monday to write together. #MadWriting
Step 2: We set bite-sized goals for every single writing project, due on Friday. (e.g., Feb1: draft methods and draft results headers), working back from everyone's individualized deadlines. (2/n)

For writing group, I bring snacks, and everyone gets coffee or tea, and we all sit together. In silence. Writing.

At the beginning of each writing group we all share what we plan to accomplish *in that session*, and then check in at the end of the two hours. (3/n)

Writing group has helped me stay focused, because I know it's a reasonable amount of time, emails will still be there, and I when I find myself getting distracted, I know I just need to hold out a little longer. (4/n)

The Friday sets of deadlines are only pairwise between me and each person. We set and adjusted these deadlines together, then shared them in an email, so we can both go back and check the progress and see how we are doing with their unique timelines. (5/n)

So far, three weeks in, and I feel like we have a plan for everyone, that everyone is making progress, and we're all going to make it through to the other side. I'll let you all know how it goes, but I'm optimistic (and can see our progress!). 6/6

Addendum: An example of weekly deadlines we've set. #MadWriting #Manuscript #Thesis

CC @simjoly - So far this is manageable. :)