Problems like “who can do my dissertation for me” can be more difficult than working on math problems or reading through a book chapter. Even though these tasks can be frustrating, they are far less time-consuming than writing a paper.
As I progressed through college, however I created a system that allowed me to produce papers in record-breaking time. This allowed me to devote more time to things I liked, like writing for this blog or taking long walks in the woods. I will share this process today so you can write faster papers without sacrificing quality.
1. Understanding the Assignment
It is the greatest waste of time to write a paper that does not answer the professor’s questions. Do not be afraid to ask your professor questions about the assignment.
The professor may not be trying to trick you if the assignment seems unclear. Of course, this is often due to the fact that professors are so familiar with their field that it’s easy to believe that certain things are obvious “… even if they’re not to others.
Do not ask for clarification if you don’t understand the assignment. It doesn’t make you stupid to ask; it’s foolish to try and complete the assignment without understanding the content.
As an English TA in college I experienced this problem every day. Students would spend hours researching a topic and then write a paper about it. It doesn’t really matter how great a paper may be, if it doesn’t answer the question, it will get a poor grade.
Even if the professor is friendly and will let you rewrite the assignment, it’s best to ask. Otherwise, why bother doing all that extra work. It shows initiative that you care about the assignment by asking the professor questions. This engagement will only improve your grade.
2. Research with Ruthless Efficiency
Once you’ve understood the assignment you can start to research. Attention! Research can prove to be a good way to procrastinate, if you don’t take care. “One more source” could easily lead to hours of writing that you should have done.
I use my favorite method to defeat procrastination, which is setting a time limit. In my guide to researching, I stated that you shouldn’t spend 30 minutes per page researching. If the paper is five pages long, spend no more than 2.5 hours researching.
If you spend too much time, your returns will be diminished. Don’t fret about not having enough info. If you discover that you require more information after you begin writing, you have the option to do more research. The purpose of your first research session is not to provide you with enough material to write. Find your sources in the library/database, then take your notes and get writing.
3. A Flat Outline is created
The traditional method of outlining papers was something I hated since 8th grade. I never made an outline that included bullets, numbers and letters. I just made one up after I wrote the paper.
Isn’t it so much better? Flat outline work because it mirrors writing. It is impossible to sit down and write with an exact idea of what you’re going to say. Through the writing process, you discover what your message is. Flat outline provides just enough structure for you to conquer the “blank canvas”, while still allowing you to discover.
4. Make the Perfect Writing Environment
You have a good understanding of the topic. Now you can start to create your outline. Now you can sit down and start writing the damn thing. You can’t rush: what you write is crucial.
Distraction is the number one obstacle to quickly writing a paper, after procrastination. Without a supportive environment that allows you to focus, you will spend hours switching between paper and other distractions.
A writing environment must be conducive to zen-like focus in order for you to maintain your focus. This article will give you a complete guide on how to create a distraction-free studying environment. Below is a summary of some of the most effective practices.
You should go to a calm place. This could be your dorm, a quiet corner of the library, or an off-campus cafeteria. It doesn’t matter where you live, as long as you don’t get distracted or interrupted by anyone else, this is the right place.
Comfortable is key. Your chair should be comfortable. Prior to writing any other things, ensure that your body is in a comfortable position. Take care of your bed before you write. Your bed is for sleeping only.
Block all digital distractions. Depending on the severity of your internet addiction, you can close unrelated programs and put your phone in airplane mode. You could also install an app like Cold Turkey Writer which blocks all other apps until you have written a certain amount. You can download apps like Freedom or SelfControl to stop distracting sites if you absolutely need to use the internet for writing (perhaps you’re using Google Docs).
Assemble your supplies. You can’t sit down and start writing if you realize that one of your sources has been lost in your dorm. Before you write a word, ensure that your computer is fully charged, your sources ready, and that you have coffee or tea on hand.
5. Editing is not a solo job
You need to be able to focus and keep your thoughts private when you are writing the draft. However, editing can be much more efficient if you have someone to review your work. Why? Because you’re naturally blind to errors in your writing. Because you have been reading the draft so many times that mistakes aren’t as obvious to you as they would to someone with fresh eyes.
You have several options when it comes time to find someone to help with your editing.
Invite a trusted friend or family member to help you with the paper. Make sure they aren’t distracting from you.
Bring the paper to college’s writing centre. But don’t expect them be your copy editor. Most likely, they will ask you to read your paper aloud. This allows you to catch any errors on your own while also having the accountability and support of another person.
Ask your professor for feedback. Sometimes, this is not possible. However, your professor may be willing to provide feedback before you submit your paper. This is especially true if the paper is a term paper. Professors will often include feedback in the assignment by setting deadlines for a draft, a proposal, and a final copy. It doesn’t hurt to ask them for feedback even if they don’t. Their worst answer is no.
Bonus Tip – Take a Writing Intensive Course
While this tip doesn’t directly affect the writing process, it can make an enormous difference in speed and quality. The definition of “writing intense” at my college varied from professor to professor. However, it was always a class that required a lot of writing. This included one (short) essay per day and a 20+-page final paper.
While each class was hard, I felt like I had become a better writer after each one. While this was an important benefit, it did more than just make me faster. In addition to a rise in quality and analysis, I was also able to make significant improvements in my research skills.
You can always get cheap essay writing services in USA specifically for improving your writing. A college degree with strong writing skills is always a plus.
