This post lists some books on academic writing, which I've found useful.
Thesis Writing
- I found How to Write a Thesis by Rowena Murray a good first book to get started writing a thesis. It talks about the importance of free writing, brainstorming, and the writing process.
Composition
- Problem-solving strategies for writing by Linda Flower also provided a number of additional strategies within a framework grounded in cognitive psychology.
Grammar
- In terms of general handbooks on writing, grammar, and style, there are many out there. I liked The ready reference handbook: writing, revising, editing by Jack Dodds.
- Everyone talks about Strunk’s Elements of Style and it is an important quick read available on the Internet.
- In terms of writing style, I enjoyed the tips given in Make Your Words Work and 100 Ways to Improve Your Writing both by the late Gary Provost.
- On Writing Well by William Zinsser is also a classic.
- Style: Lessons in Clarity and Grace by Joseph Williams was also quite good.
- The Publication Manual of the APA is essential in psychology, and also has some advice on writing style and content.
Writing for Psychology Academics
- In terms of a good quick book written specifically for academic psychologists, How to Write a Lot by Paul J. Silvia has some good ideas.
