The Handbook of Academic Writing: A Fresh Approach

The Handbook of Academic Writing offers practical advice to busy academics who want, and are often required, to integrate writing into their working lives. It defines what academic writing is, and the process of getting started through to completion, covering topics such as: gaining momentum, reviewing and revising, self-discipline, writing regularly, and writers' groups and retreats. Academic writing is one of the most demanding tasks that all academics and researchers face. In some disciplines there is guidance on what is needed to be productive, successful writers; but in other disciplines there is no training, support or mentoring of any kind. This book helps those in both groups not only to improve their writing skills and strategies, but, equally importantly, to find satisfaction in engaging in regular and productive writing. Underpinned by a diverse range of literature, this book addresses the different dimensions of writing.

Rowena Murray is a Reader in the Department of Educational and Professional Studies at the University of Strathclyde. She regularly facilitates a range of innovative and informative professional workshops and seminars designed to help academics to develop and enhance their writing. She is the also the author of How to Survive your Viva (2003) How to Write a Thesis (2006, 2nd edition) and Writing for Academic Journals (2005), all published by the Open University Press-McGraw-Hill.

Sarah Moore is Dean of Teaching and Learning at the University of Limerick in Ireland and a member of Ireland's Higher Education Authority (HEA). A teacher and researcher in the area of organisational behaviour and development, she has used the principles of this discipline to help develop more effective academic practices and processes both within and beyond her own institution. She has designed and delivered nine dedicated writers' retreats for academics within the last five years. Sarah is also the lead author of How to be a Student (Open University Press, 2005).