I won’t beat around the bush; idioms shouldn’t be used in academic writing. I don’t mean to big note myself, but this article will explain why idioms are inappropriate in formal contexts. If you’re sitting on the fence about it, let me tell you that academics wouldn’t be caught dead peppering their writing with idiomatic expressions (like…
While natural aptitude is essential if you want to become a fantastic editor, it’s also true that editing is a highly technical skill. Editors love working with the rules of language and writing. There are countless books and articles weighing in on everything from minor grammatical disagreements to profound linguistic controversies. When…
Carers returning from maternity leave or other career breaks often need to rebuild their networks, refresh their knowledge and reinvigorate their enthusiasm for their career. Conference attendance is a vital part of a professional career. But caring responsibilities can make it difficult or, at the least, financially very expensive to…
Writing your first undergraduate essay can be daunting. Here’s our step-by-step guide to completing your essay: Read, understand and annotate the question or stimulus. If you do not understand the question, ask your lecturer or supervisor. Read broadly about your essay’s subject area. Begin to develop your response to the…
Read, read, read. Find a subject that interests you and work with your supervisor to find a specific and under-researched topic. Writing a thesis is a gradual procedure. You chip away at a thesis, adding content as you plan, research, gather data and analyse results. Thesis structures differ, but generally…
In a recent article, ‘How to Write a Great Introduction: The Basics’, I provided a quick and simple outline of the two main things that an introduction must do in order to be considered a true introduction to an essay. In this article, I’d like to take you a step…
‘It’s 8.15 pm. I’m in bed, exhausted, with pain in all my joints and my ribs. I haven’t been this tired since 26 hours of active labour four years ago. In the last 48 hours, I’ve submitted a grant and a paper, reviewed three manuscripts, and travelled interstate for a…
There’s no doubt that beginning university is an exciting time. If you’re an undergraduate straight out of high school, university may be a gateway to your chosen career path or a place for you to work out what you want to do. Amid the eagerness and anticipation, it can also…
As I approached graduation for my single major in History at the University of New South Wales in 2014, I was given the opportunity to qualify for a second major. By undertaking one more business subject, I could elect to graduate with a double major in History and Business. I…
Hey students … did you know that your potential is limitless? Everything you desire is achievable—believe that! Many people dream of achieving big things and they thrive in their pursuit, despite others around them doubting their abilities. There’s no reason to think that you can’t do the same. But, do…