Academic writing is a formal and structured style of communication designed to convey complex ideas to the scholarly community. It should be clear and follow rigorous referencing procedures.
We would encourage you to proactively seek support for academic writing, to improve your skills.
Below you can find various resources, services, and tools to help you enhance your academic writing.
- Online Resources
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For online resources, please go to the Online Resources Access page (University of Aberdeen students only)
The Writer's Toolkit
Twelve tools for making your writing easier.
Format: Online Course.
Writing a Literature Review
The course will help you develop a system that will save time, clarify focus and build confidence.
Format: Recording of a live session.
Overcoming Writer's Block
A common problem everyone will experience.
Format: Written Guide.
- Live Sessions by Student Learning Service
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The Student Learning Service (SLS) works with all students at all levels, including PGR. We deliver a number of workshops for PhD students throughout the year on writing development and general approaches to doctoral research.
These include:
- Dealing with Constructive Feedback and Peer Review
- Editing for Your Reader: Constructing and Punctuating Sentences
- Editing for Your Reader: Spelling, Paragraph Structure, Constructing an Argument
- Editing for Your Reader: Writing a Summary and Paraphrasing
- Tips and advice for more productive academic writing
- Writing a Literature Review
To view these courses and to book a place, please go to the online course booking system.
PhD students are also welcome to book a 1-2-1 session to discuss their writing or their general approach to their doctoral research, however, this must be done in consultation with their supervisor (an e-mail from the supervisor to confirm is required).
In addition to writing development, SLS can also provide support for neurodivergent PhD students.
Visit the SLS website for more information. If you have any questions or would like to request an appointment, email sls@abdn.ac.uk.
- The Language Centre
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The Language Centre offers support to international students with Academic Writing & Communication Skills through ASkE (Academic Skills in English) programme. We offer general sessions as well as some sessions specifically related to your degree subject.
To book a place on ASkE: Academic Skills in English (ASkE)
For more information about the Language Centre and to send an enquiry: Language Centre | International | The University of Aberdeen