โข write unfocused arguments.
โข present obvious or uncontroversial ideas.
โข rehash existing knowledge without insight.
โข make sweeping generalizations without evidence.
Instead:
โข I craft claims that define clear goals and directions for my papers.
โข I ensure my claims are argumentative, taking a specific stance.
โข I support my claims with robust evidence and expert opinions.
โข I make my claims complex enough to sustain an entire paper.
Thinking deeply about your main argument can transform your writing.
Since finishing my PhD, I've published 200+ high-impact papers.
So here's a quick PhD Publishing Masterclass:
(I know, some Universities charge crazy tuition for this)
1. Nail your literature review โ comprehensiveness and critical analysis.
A review that's "exhaustive" creates context.
Therefore, it's easily defensible.
Most researchers list papers, not synthesize knowledge.
2. Focus on your discussion โ goes hand-in-hand with point 1.
Less than 1% of your interpretations will be groundbreaking.
Connecting your results to the literature? Absolutely vital.