Dissertation Dedication

Facing the Challenges to Writing Your Doctoral Dissertation

Michael A. Milton, PhD

ome of you reading this are well into the process of writing your dissertation. Others of you are at the starting line. Wherever you are on the spectrum of writing your doctoral dissertation, you can probably benefit from reviewing some challenges and best practices to respond to those challenges. That is what I hope to do in this article. So let’s get started.

The Doctoral Dissertation Challenges

Here are some insights on the challenges you will face in writing your dissertation

1. Time management: Balancing the demands of research, writing, and other responsibilities can be challenging.

2. Staying motivated: The long and often isolating process of writing a dissertation can be draining.

3. Finding a topic: Deciding on a topic that is both feasible and significant can be difficult.

4. Gathering data: Conducting research and collecting data can be time-consuming and sometimes difficult.

5. Writing style: Adhering to a clear and consistent writing style can be a challenge, especially for those who are not experienced writers.

6. Seeking feedback: Receiving constructive feedback and criticism can be difficult, but it is important for the improvement of the dissertation.

7. Dealing with writer's block: Many students experience periods of writer's block during the dissertation writing process.

8. Staying organized: Keeping track of sources, research notes, and writing progress can be challenging without a well-structured system.

9. Time constraints: The pressure of meeting deadlines can be stressful and interfere with the writing process.

10. Maintaining focus: Staying focused and avoiding distractions can be difficult in the face of competing demands.

Some Best Practices

1. Start early: Give yourself enough time to research, write, and revise your dissertation.

2. Develop a clear and concise research question: Your research question should guide the entire dissertation process.

3. Review the literature: Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the existing research in your field.

4. Plan your methodology: Determine the best approach for conducting your research and collecting data.

5. Write regularly: Set aside dedicated time each day or each week to write and make progress on your dissertation.

6. Seek feedback: Share your writing with peers, advisors, and others for feedback and suggestions.

7. Stay organized: Keep track of your sources, research notes, and writing progress systematically.

8. Maintain balance: Take care of your physical and mental health while working on your dissertation.

9. Follow guidelines: Make sure to adhere to any specific guidelines set by your department or university.

10. Seek support: Reach out to colleagues, friends, or a writing group for support and motivation.

A Final Word of Encouragement

ou have heard it said, “This, too, will pass.” But you see that is the point—and, quite frankly, the danger. Don’t let this unique time pass without theological reflection at each juncture in the journey.

"Redeeming the time" is a biblical expression that means making the most of every opportunity, using one's time wisely, and not wasting it. The phrase comes from the New Testament book of Ephesians 5:16, which states, "Redeeming the time because the days are evil." This verse is urging believers to make the most of every moment and to use their time wisely, knowing that they are living in a fallen and evil world.

The idea of "redeeming the time" is similar to the idea of stewardship, which is the biblical concept