How to Write a Lot: A Practical Guide to Productive Academic Writing (APA LifeTools Series)

In hindsight I understand I got this book as an excuse to procrastinate writing my thesis. Yet, this book encouraged me to reflect on my writing habits and expectations, which is slowly helping me to finish my writing.

This is aimed at academic writers and had all the hallmarks of being a rather dry and factual read. What a surprise - full of wit, insights and absolute down to earth sound and implementable advice. An easy and entertaining read.

The basic premise behind Paul Silvia's "How to Write a Lot" is if you want to write a lot without compromising your time, develop a writing schedule, stick to it, keep track of your writing goals/progress, and find a group/person to keep you accountable. The book is brief but packed with practical advice. The author has a no-nonsense approach to gadgets/gimmicks that distract us from writing. I also enjoyed the section about the most common excuses to delay writing. His snarky remarks are funny and keep the vibe light. The key is the habit itself; repetition will yield a consistent writing stream. I am already practicing some of the tips he shared. I recommend this book if you want to increase your writing output. My favorite quotes: "Writing is a skill, not a gift." "Instead of finding time to write, allot time to write." "Writing breeds more good ideas for writing." "Generating text and revising text are distinct parts of writing—don't do both at once." "Most readers who come across your article will see only the title and abstract, so make them count." "To write good articles, pick your journal first, outline, submit great first drafts, and craft excellent resubmission letters." "The world of peer-reviewed journals isn't scary, merely slow." "Grant proposals are funded relatively rather than absolutely." "Productive writing involves harnessing the power of habit, and habits come from repetition."

This is a great little book about writing that is packed with practical, helpful advice. The advice and tips can be applied to any type of writing. I highly recommend this book to anyone who writes.

good book

As a doctoral student whose full time job is writing, I loved this book. Silvia keeps it funny and light, but also provides no nonsense tips/strategies for forming writing habits that work. Highly recommend.

The text guides academic writers to learn how to maintain writing schedules, improve their writing styles and even delves into the technical considerations that come with research grants and publishing in journals.

Very inspiring book for those looking for more motivation to write!

Me gustó porque el autor va directo al grano. El libro desmonta la idea de que solo debes escribir cuando te sientes “motivado”, demostrando que en realidad la disciplina y una rutina de trabajo son métodos más eficaces. Si estás en busca de un método para ponerte a escribir o necesitas tips para crear el tuyo este pequeño libro te ayudará mucho. Es fácil de seguir y lo terminas muy rápido. Aunque el autor es del área de Ciencias Sociales, sus ideas pueden extrapolarse a otras áreas.

Lots of practical advice. Funny