Despite an ever-escalating emphasis on publication, few of us receive formal training in how to craft and revise our academic writing. From Project to Publication lays out an array of practices and frameworks that support academic writers in transforming a manuscript-in-process into a submitted article. Drawing on my work with NCFDD and my own research on how academics write, this multi-week course is designed to complement faculty members’ expertise in their own fields, and is open to scholars across the disciplines.

Across the weeks, I will guide participants through distinct stages of the revision process – from deepening an argument, to clarifying an under-represented perspective, to integrating feedback without losing sight of our own investments. Throughout, I emphasize inquiry as a creative process of engaging our sources, readers and selves as we strive to contribute to – and transform – our respective fields.

In Week 1, we will discuss the art of situating our research in the context of existing scholarship. I will lay out an array of prompts and practices for refining a literature review and revisiting primary source analysis – even when we’ve read our words many times before.

In Week 2, we will explore the construction of an original argument. I will discuss ways we can fully unfold our work’s implications, without over- or under-stating its promise.

In Week 3, we will consider how to invite and integrate critical feedback, and how to craft clear academic prose. I will present fresh and classic rhetorical strategies for revision, exploring what beautiful sentences look and sound like in different fields.

In Week 4, we will have a Live Q&A! I will be available to think with participants, learn about folks’ research, troubleshoot challenges, and celebrate people’s work.

Free Individual Memberships for the National Center for Faculty Development & Diversity (NCFDD)

Available to all Cornell students, postdocs, faculty, and staff

Cornell is an institutional member of the National Center for Faculty Development & Diversity (NCFDD), a nationally recognized, independent organization providing online career development and mentoring resources. The NCFDD provides members with access to tools to increase research and writing productivity and improve work-life balance. 

Activate your account by following the steps below:

1. Go to the NCFDD website
2. Under “Select Your Institution,” choose “Cornell University”
3. Select “Activate my Membership”
4. Complete the registration form using your Cornell email address
5. Check your Cornell email account to find a confirmation/welcome email. Click “Activate Account” in the email