Page 18 - Dare to Make an Impact

1. Carve out Time.
It is important to set aside a specific time to write. Try to adopt a make-time mindset rather than a find-time mindset and remember that writing needs to be a priority if you’re going to climb the ladder to academic success. Experts recommend writing for at least 30 minutes each day, and scheduling in specific projects for specific weeks in your calendar as if they were non-negotiable meetings.
2. Start Small.
If a writing project seems daunting, break it down into manageable tasks. For example, a grant proposal that you’ve never written before may seem insurmountable until you write the first section. Don’t feel bad about starting with the easiest bit of the project, either – sometimes just getting started is the best thing you can do.
3. Convey Enthusiasm.
Research can be complex, but it doesn’t have
to be boring. Think about your grant writing like the first few lines of a lengthy novel. Readers make a decision instantly about putting the book down or continuing to read on based on those first few engaging lines. The same applies to your grant proposal, especially the one-page specific aims or project summary statements that precede a typical grant proposal. Get creative and craft sentences that make reviewers want
to read further.
4. Join a Writing Group.
This can be as informal as gathering a few colleagues together once a week for a set time to write. Take advantage of the like-minded goals and interests of your peers and gather their input on your work as you offer feedback on theirs. You’ll not only improve the quality and quantity of your writing, but you’ll strengthen the community of your colleagues and create
a supportive network of scientists.
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