How to Overcome Writing Challenges, Get Unstuck, and Transform Your Academic Writing Practice     Academic writing is an essential skill for researchers, educators, and students across disciplines. However, it is also a source of considerable anxiety, frustration, and even isolation.   I distinctly remember times when I agonized over every word, questioning my stance, only to painstakingly write and then deconstruct each sentence. In some respects, my desire for perfection morphed into procrastination. In other aspects, I was simply navigating the early stages of my journey as a ..read more

How to Identify a Problem of Practice: A Guide for EdD Students     The Problem of Practice (PoP) is the heart of any Dissertation in Practice (DiP). Identifying a PoP that is both pressing and relevant in the field of education is a critical first step in your research journey. In the expansive field of education, EdD students often struggle to pinpoint a PoP that is not only relevant but feasible to address through their research.  In this blog post, I’ll provide practical tips for doctoral candidates on how to pinpoint a PoP that not only aligns with their interests and exper ..read more

How to Write a Theoretical Framework: A Step-by-Step Guide   The theoretical framework is an essential component of any research study. It provides the foundation for your research by outlining the key concepts, variables, and relationships that you will explore. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of writing a theoretical framework, from understanding the basics to revising and refining your work. Whether you are a novice researcher or an experienced scholar, this guide will help you craft a solid theoretical foundation for your study.   Understanding th ..read more

How to Write a Research Question: A Guide for Graduate Students   Writing a research question is a fundamental step in any research endeavor. It not only guides the entire research process but also serves as a beacon of focus and direction. A well-crafted research question provides a clear and concise objective, enabling researchers to design and conduct their studies effectively. In this guide, we will explore the importance of a research question, the steps involved in formulating one, the characteristics of a good research question, and the common mistakes to avoid.   The Imp ..read more

How to Write a Hypothesis: A Step-by-Step Guide   A hypothesis is a proposed explanation or prediction that seeks to answer a research question. It is a statement that can be tested through empirical observation and analysis. When developing a hypothesis, it is important to have a clear understanding of its role in the research process. Imagine a group of scientists seeking to understand the effects of a new drug on a specific medical condition. Without a hypothesis, their research would lack focus and purpose. However, with a carefully crafted hypothesis, they can set clear objectives an ..read more

Employing Large Language Models to Bolster Qualitative Research   In a rapidly digitizing world, the integration of technology in research methodologies has become imperative. The emergence of large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT presents opportunities and challenges in equal measure for qualitative researchers. But what do these advancements mean for the future of research? Our recent publication in The Qualitative Report  touched upon the use of LLMs, such as ChatGPT, in developing and refining interview protocols. It’s no secret that such models are transforming the way ..read more

How To Write the Findings Chapter for Qualitative Studies   Introduction: Contextualizing Your Findings The introductory section serves as the gateway to your qualitative findings chapter. Begin by reiterating your problem statement and research questions, setting the stage for the data that will be presented. Highlighting the purpose of your research is crucial at this juncture to give context to the reader.   Example: The primary aim of this case study is to explore how educators perceive the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in K-12 education settings. This resear ..read more

3 Critical Mistakes to Avoid in Your Literature Review and How to Fix Them   The role of a literature review in academic research is nothing short of critical. It serves as the scaffolding upon which your research questions and methodology stand. Unfortunately, many graduate students grapple with crafting a literature review that does justice to their overall research. In this blog post, I’ll focus on three pervasive mistakes that can undermine the quality of your literature review—poor organization, lack of alignment, and lack of synthesis—and offer proven strategies to overcome these co ..read more

How to Prepare for Your Dissertation Defense   Preparing for a dissertation defense is a major milestone in the doctoral journey. This is the moment when years of hard work, research, and academic rigor are put to the test. Preparing adequately for this crucial event can be the difference between a successful defense and an arduous experience. In this blog post, I aim to provide you with helpful tips and strategies as you prepare for your dissertation defense.   Understand the Format Before you begin preparing, it’s essential to understand the specific format of a dissertation defens ..read more

Introduction Formatting theses, dissertations, and research papers can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to maintaining the standards of citation formats like APA or MLA. As a researcher and academic coach, I understand the challenges involved in keeping track of references, formatting citations, and ensuring that your paper adheres to the guidelines set by academic journals. I recently started using a software that has been a game-changer—PERRLA.   What is PERRLA? PERRLA is an academic formatting software designed to automate and simplify the citation and formatting process. W ..read more