Advice for Thesis/Project Writers
Choosing and Working with Your Advisor
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Take classes and work on extracurricular projects with the person you think you’d like as an advisor.
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Choose someone you get along with and communicate well with.
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If you’re a person who needs direction, choose someone “stricter” who will give you plenty of direction and feedback.
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Work out a schedule with your advisor and try your best to meet the schedule
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Remember that your advisor is an important mentor and reference provider, so impress him or her with your work ethic.
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Don’t avoid your advisor: when you’re having trouble, let your advisor know you need a little help or more time.
The Writing Process
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Good writers revise and revise and revise: don’t be afraid of revision and refocusing.
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Get feedback from an outside reader or readers.
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Visit the Writing Center, 128 Calaveras, 278-6356
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Give yourself time to put the writing down and come back to it with a fresh eye.
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If you get bogged down in the research, try writing a draft with just your ideas first.
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Start with the material/chapter you’re most excited about writing.
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Work on content first and editing last.
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Look at past theses and projects (especially theses and projects directed by your advisor) at the CSUS library.
Time Management
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Make a schedule with your advisor and try to stick to it.
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Reward yourself when you do stick to your schedule.
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Get in the habit of writing every day: writing rituals are helpful.
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Make space at least once a day for quiet time to write without distractions.
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Research your topic thoroughly, but don’t pressure yourself to read everything ever written in your field: know when you’ve done enough research.
Handling Stress
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No matter how stressed out you get, treat yourself right: stay healthy and take care of yourself.
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Take a break when you feel a “mental overload:” exercise, watch a movie, play with a pet, etc
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Talk to other graduate students who are going through the same stress, as well as other graduate students who have successfully completed their thesis or project.