Video notes - Alan MacFarlane's advice for writing a dissertation

Today, I viewed this video on writing reflections for dissertations. It is a bit lengthy, but has a wealth of practical advice from Alan MacFarlane.

Key points:

• Don't delay - start writing as soon as possible. "Write first, think later" - Ray Bradbury
• Leave the introduction for last. Begin with a possible introduction (I see this as the one in the initial proposal and which will change later.)
• Put aside the data and sketch out your plans before writing. Find the "hub" and work from there. What drew you to this subject in the first place?
• "Bounded, but leaky" writing in social science. Need long periods of intense thinking while writing (3-4 hours max at writing.) Writing can be a lonely process, but need to be deliberate in the process.
• Work with others who are in the same process to add social elements to the work. Exchange work for feedback and understanding.  Try to have individuals outside the field read your writing to check for clarity and understanding.
• 8 hours to work, 8 hours to sleep, 8 hours to play. (hmmm...when do I work?)
• Where to write?  Somewhere comfortable with minimum distractions.  Individual preference for comfort is important. (So where do I send the kids/husband for a year?)  
• Be careful of electronic distractions (e-mail, Facebook, Skype, etc.)- Here is one I struggle with!
• Hand write first draft.  Typewritten drafts look too neat and can be misleading.  Revise and rewrite 3-4 times.
• Writing is a curve - start out with little knowledge...followed by a peak where you have appropriate knowledge and interest....then, ends with a lack of interest and have gained what you can.
• You cannot know what you actually wrote until you read the text days later.
• Writing can be like "religious ecstasy" - as if the spirit's are coming through you and onto the paper.  
• Writing is like running.....Now I see my problem!
• Try various styles, formats, and topics as you continue on the journey to keep your writing fresh.
• Write to help others - share what you know that can help others like you.
• Writing should be fun - an effort, but not a burden.
• The questions/thesis may not be truly known until the end of the journey.
• Keep a log of the journey with reflections to track where you have been and where you may be going. 
• Don't be concerned with the number of words  Get your thoughts down and cut to appropriate levels at the end.  Always better to have too much....