Professors as Writers: A Self-Help Guide to Productive Writing : Book Review

In "Professors as Writers: A Self-Help Guide to Productive Writing," Robert Boice delivers valuable insights and practical tips for academics seeking to enhance their writing productivity. Drawing on his expertise as a psychologist and faculty development expert, Boice explores the common writing challenges faced by professors and presents effective strategies to overcome them.

Throughout the book, Boice emphasizes the importance of establishing a well-structured writing routine that enables regular and consistent progress. He stresses the significance of taking small, incremental steps and advocates for daily writing practices instead of waiting for large blocks of uninterrupted time. Boice offers specific techniques that help combat procrastination and cultivate discipline, empowering academics to produce high-quality work within designated timeframes.

Boice also addresses the psychological barriers that often impede academic writing, such as fear of failure, self-doubt, and perfectionism. He introduces readers to cognitive-behavioral strategies that allow for the reframing of negative thoughts and the development of resilience, ultimately fostering a positive mindset for writing. Boice emphasizes the value of seeking social support and engaging with fellow writers, highlighting the role of collaboration and feedback in improving writing skills.

One of the notable strengths of "Professors as Writers" lies in its practicality. Boice offers numerous specific techniques and exercises that readers can easily incorporate into their writing routines. From outlining and drafting to revising and editing, he provides concrete guidance for each stage of the writing process, enabling readers to develop systematic approaches that minimize stress and maximize productivity.

Overall, "Professors as Writers" is an indispensable resource for academics seeking to enhance their writing productivity. Boice's expertise in psychology and faculty development shines through as he provides practical advice, encourages a positive mindset, and offers step-by-step strategies for overcoming common writing challenges. Whether you are an experienced writer or just beginning your academic journey, this book is a valuable tool for becoming a more effective and prolific writer.

What are readers saying?

"Professors as Writers" by Robert Boice has garnered mixed reviews from readers, with divergent opinions on its value as a guide for academics seeking to enhance their writing skills. While some readers found the book insightful and beneficial, others perceived it as overly dense and lacking in practical advice.

Many readers commended Robert Boice for his rigorous research and extensive expertise in academia. They appreciated his systematic approach and emphasis on cultivating a writing habit. Boice's strategies to overcome writer's block and increase productivity resonated with certain readers, who found valuable insights into the writing process.

Nevertheless, there were dissatisfied readers who felt let down by the book. They believed it delved too deeply into academic theories, failing to provide practical techniques for addressing their own writing challenges. Furthermore, they struggled to connect with Boice's writing style, and some found the book excessively repetitive and burdensome to read.

Some readers also expressed disappointment with the lack of diversity in the examples and anecdotes presented by Boice. They felt that the book predominantly focused on the experiences of white, male professors, limiting its relatability and applicability to a broader audience.

Despite these criticisms, many readers considered "Professors as Writers" a valuable resource and recommended it to fellow academics. They applauded Boice's emphasis on the importance of regular writing practices, and believed his strategies could be applied to various forms of writing beyond academia.

ProfessorsAsWriters BooksByProfessors AcademicAuthors