1. At this point in the class, reflect on what you have personally learned about academic writing so far. What is the ultimate purpose of academic writing?
2. How is graduate school writing different undergraduate writing?
3. What are some of the risks involved in academic writing?
4. What are you most concerned about going forward with your writing in graduate school?

 

Social Science Seminar Discussion Question

Reflection on academic writing

I have learned a lot regarding academic writing, and I have improved my writing as well. I think that academic writing allows us to think analytically. Academic writing is a process where the students have to gather information and analyze it. The students have to communicate the information to give a sense to the reader regarding a particular topic of research. I also learned that we have to respect the data and research of another author or writer and do not copy their information or findings without giving credit. Therefore, referencing plays a vital role in academic writing where a writer gives credit to the original author to avoid plagiarism cases. 

Graduate writing v. Undergraduate writing

There is a significant difference between graduate school writing and undergraduate writing. The educational goals of both undergraduate and graduate students are different; therefore, the writing guidelines are also different for both students. The undergraduate students learn and understand the process of writing and how to gather and interpret data. But the graduate writing includes the original content. These students find data and write their own research papers. 

Risks in academic writing

The risks in academic writing include the struggles of the students to gather the data from authentic sources and organizing it effectively. The students struggle with the proper use of mechanics for academic writing. There is also a risk for plagiarism. The students have to write in their words and give credit to the original author. 

My concerns

My main concern is to improve my research skills. I have learned many things regarding academic writing, and now I want to write my own paper, and I am working to improve my research skills. I want to become a writer who can easily analyze the topics and find the results easily.