11 Academic Challenges and Solutions

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln created a guide detailing some hurdles that academic writers face and some possible solutions to those hurdles. The first being a lack of confidence in writing (DevelopingEffectiveWritingHabits). This can be really detrimental to a paper as a student who lacks confidence will likely write with a lack of confidence resulting in a weak conclusion. Additionally, a student who lacks confidence will likely procrastinate and make excuses to avoid beginning the project. The University suggests maintaining positive self-talk. The student could repeat a positive affirmation before writing that they are a good writer and are ready to tackle their paper. The university also suggests getting together with other students who are working on the same or similar projects. This can be very helpful because it helps the student recognize that other educated and confident students also struggle with writing and can offer a group to help them think through their paper or writing strategies. The second hurdle that the University outlines is a student who just dislikes writing. This can make it particularly difficult for the student to self motivate. This can also lead to procrastination or a paper that comes off as rushed or lackluster. For this the university suggests two topics discussed earlier, organizing their environment and creating an outline. The third hurdle is a lack of time dedicated to writing. This is challenging for students who feel overwhelmed with other responsibilities. Every writer has experienced writer’s block and sometimes it just takes time and mental determination to reach a breakthrough. This can make the writing process lengthy. With that said the student can control this by allocating set time blocks to writing and to set goals. Goals are important to not only help hold the student accountable but offer gratification when the student checks them off as complete. The University also delves deeper to say that goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based. Keeping this in mind can help the student set goals that help encourage and motivate them.