Write No Matter What

Advice for Academics

By: Joli Jensen

Narrated by: Pam Ward

With growing academic responsibilities, family commitments, and inboxes, scholars are struggling to fulfill their writing goals. A finished book - or even steady journal articles - may seem like an impossible dream. But, as Joli Jensen proves, it really is possible to write happily and productively in academe.

Jensen begins by busting the myth that universities are supportive writing environments. She points out that academia, an arena dedicated to scholarship, offers pressures that actually prevent scholarly writing. She shows how to acknowledge these less-than-ideal conditions, and how to keep these circumstances from draining writing time and energy. Jensen introduces tools and techniques that encourage frequent, low-stress writing. She points out common ways writers stall and offers workarounds that maintain productivity. Her focus is not on content, but on how to overcome whatever stands in the way of academic writing.

Cut down the academic sword of Damocles, Jensen advises. Learn how to write often and effectively, without pressure or shame. With her encouragement, writers of all levels will find ways to create the writing support they need and deserve.

©2017 The University of Chicago (P)2019 Tantor

Good choice for new professors

Excellent audio book for fresh PhD graduates.
I will listen to it again whenever I have time

A great enlightening book

A vey my enlightening Book for academic writers and engagers. Finished the book in three weeks under the audiobook leading reads. Thanks!

Honest account of academic writing challenges.

I'm a graduate physics student writing my thesis and first journal publication. This book has been so helpful. It deals with the very specific challenges of academia, some of which I had never even recognized. The author writes about the academic environment in an honest and humane way, and gives real practical advise to get the writing done. Will recommend to all of my colleagues.

Lots of useful advice

This book contains lots of useful advice on how to write often and happily. While it is targeted towards academic writers, all writers could learn from its insights.

Excellent advice for researchers

As a post-PhD climate scientist employed to publish high quality research, I found this book especially helpful. Jensen focuses on the writing process (not style). Her advice is insightful, practical, and achievable. As researchers, we can set aside at least 15 mins a day to train ourselves to focus on writing, can we not? I would also recommend setting aside a few minutes each day to learn from others about essential research skills, including the craft of writing - Jensen’s book is a great place to start.