AboutElana Peled, Ed.D. Expertise I can answer questions related to the writing, formatting and development of academic papers, essays and dissertations, from selecting a topic and developing a thesis, to focusing a sentence and/or paragraph. I can also answer questions regarding syntax, grammar and punctuation. And I can answer questions regarding the role of creativity in academic writing as well as dealing with writer's block and procrastination.
Experience I have more than 20 years experience teaching academic writing to college students at every level. I have designed and taught courses on reading and writing for college freshman, both those who enter college ready to do college level work and those needing additional "catch-up" work. I've taught writing to students in master's programs and even designed a workbook to help students working on a master's thesis. I've worked in college writing centers helping students with papers for courses across the curriculum, and I've even coaching doctoral candidates through their dissertations, providing guidance for the process and direct feedback on their writing.
Organizations Owner, www.MyDissertationEditor.com
Education/Credentials *Ed.D., Human Development and Psychology with emphasis on Language and Literacy, Harvard Graduate School of Education
*Ed.M., Language and Literacy, Harvard Graduate School of Education
*M.A., English Composition, San Francisco State University
*Certificate in Teaching Post-Secondary Reading, SFSU
Question I was wondering if you have any suggestions to "cure" writer's block? I have tried everything that normally works for me and nothing is helping. I wrote the paper once, but was unhappy with it and deleted it. Since then I have not been able to write. I have my primary and secondary sources, I have quotes picked out, I have my thesis written, I know what major points I want to make, I have my introduction written and edited, and I have my conclusion written, but not edited. I have tried just sitting down and writing, but accomplish nothing. I end up simply starring at the computer screen trying to put my thoughts into written words. I have taken a complete break from the paper for a week hoping that I would then be able to write, but it did not help. I am just at a complete loss as to what to do or try. Always before I have been able to write when I sat down to write, but I can't this time. Thanks for your time and thoughts!
Answer Hi Angelique,
I'm sorry for my delay in responding.
I wish I had a magic cure for you, but I don't. But I do have two thoughts for you: try talking about your ideas with a trusted friend, classmate, or even your professor so that you can get clear about the best way to develop your thesis. Or, try submitting a paper that you aren't 100% happy with and see what happens. It could very well be that your own standards are too high. If you find yourself continually being overcritical of your work, even though your professors find it acceptable, then you might want to explore the roots of your inner critic. A writing coach may be able to help you with this.
