Tools for Writers

Books

The Economist Style Guide
12th Edition

“Gives general advice on writing, points out common errors and clichés, offers guidance on consistent use of punctuation, abbreviations and capital letters and contains an exhaustive range of reference material–covering everything from accountancy ratios and stock market indices to laws of nature and science.” (Publisher’s description)

 

 

Writing Your Journal Article in 12 Weeks:
A Guide to Academic Publishing Success

by Wendy Laura Belcher

Belcher’s step-by-step road map takes the academic writer from the design stage to submitting the article and responding to journal decisions. Along the way, she gives clear and effective advice on advancing the argument, reviewing literature, strengthening the structure, and editing text.

 

The Ready Reference Handbook, 4th Edition
by Jack Dodds

“Provides more in-depth guidance about American academic English than any other handbook available. It is the perfect choice for students whose primary language is not English, as well as for traditional students. Easy to use and always encouraging, this handbook provides students with the ultimate quick reference guide for any writing situation, helping them to write successfully in both academic and public contexts.” (Publisher’s description)

 

 

What Editors Want:
An Author’s Guide to Scientific Journal
Publishing

by Philippa J. Benson & Susan C. Silver

Insightful and nuanced discussion of such topics as changing perspective from author to editor, authorship issues, and who does what in peer review. Excellent appendices include resources for improving science writing, databases with free access to articles or abstracts, and a presubmission checklist.

 

Online resources

Publishing economics papers: Advice from the experts

This an article from Christina Neagu’s website, and it’s full of writing tips, advice from journal editors, and links to resources.in particular, be sure to check out A Guide to Writing in Economics by Paul Dudenhefer. Neagu is a freelance editor in Italy, and her weekly academic writing blog is superb.

 

PHinisheD

Discussion forums, helpful links, and lots of support for dissertation writers.

 

Grammar Girl

Clear, easy-to-understand answers for all your grammar questions.

 

OWL: Purdue Online Writing Lab

Resources and guides for just about every aspect of academic writing.