Writing doesn’t have to be a lonely endeavor. Picture this: Having your very own partner-in-crime who is just as commited to getting their writing done as you are. A writing buddy is more than just a peer; it’s a remedy for writer’s block and the solitude of research. By commiting to another writer, whether a colleague, fellow student or office friend, you establish a routine of receiving regular feedback on each other’s drafts. So, ditch the solo act and follow this guide to get yourself a writing buddy!
Why should I become a writing buddy?
First and foremost, you will feel responsible for writing on a regular basis. You’ll only get feedback on your text if you also give it. The goal is a reciprocal relationship where both parties are accountable for their commitments.
Second, your writing and research skills will improve. A part of being an academic means being able to provide clear and constructive feedback, for example, as a supervisor or editor. As you evaluate someone else's writing, you will simultaneously learn to evaluate your own writing, which will save you time in the future. Also, what is clear to you may not be clear to others, and you’ll only discover this if you let others read your texts.
Third, you will feel less alone. In research, you spend a lot of time on your own, thinking and staring at your screen. Sharing your struggles with someone who is in the same boat and on the same level as you will help put things into perspective. Most of the time, things aren’t as bad as they seem in your head.
Last but not least, your working relationship with your supervisor will improve. A writing buddy will give you regular feedback rather than writing a large piece before sending it to your supervisor. As a result, the drafts you send to your supervisor will be more polished. Also, the buddy system removes any hierarchy that exists between you and your supervisor, making you feel more at ease when exposing your writing vulnerabilities.
How can I be a good writing buddy?
Being an effective writing buddy hinges on clear communication. Having a writing buddy only works if you and your buddy have a sense of accountability. To achieve this accountability, you must both set very clear expectations. Before you begin, consider and agree on:
-Frequency: Will you exchange feedback once a week, once a month, or only when necessary?
-Scope: What is the desired level of feedback (content, storyline, style, grammar, other)? And how long can a text for feedback be? Alternatively, specify the amount of time spent on providing the feedback.
-Method: Will you discuss the feedback in person, online, or in a Word document?
Clear communication also means being proactive when your buddy does not follow through. Sometimes, life can get in the way, or they might have gotten discouraged or have a bad writer’s block. Check in with your buddy and discuss your struggles before realigning your expectations.
Also, be sure to read this blog on receiving feedback and this one on giving feedback.
Where can I find a writing buddy?
Your buddy does not have to work on the same project as you; in fact, they don’t even have to work in the same field! Having a writing buddy with a different specialization can bring a fresh perspective to your text. Because they have different background knowledge than you, they can easily identify any missing links in your text.
It’s easier to find a writing buddy than you might think. Look around your office, explore your institute's website, and talk to people during a conference. Another great way to meet potential writing buddies is by attending a scientific writing course. You’ll meet others who also want to improve their writing.
Remember: As long as you share a similar goal - writing a scientific text - you can be writing buddies!