Rating: 
Summary: A recipe for Torture--it's your funeral
Review: Well, you might think you have to fit in writing your dissertation with all your other obligations as a poor graduate student or a back-to-school learner so that you must mete out your wisdom in soundbites that rack up a complete dissertation, but if you are in those categories, I do not recommend this book. Take it from someone who wrote a dissertation and had it approved: since the whole damn process is so exasperating the BEST way to write it is devote every spare moment of your life working, revising, researching, meeting with advisors, etc. The faster you do it, the quicker you will feel liberated from the experience of being embroiled in it. Just find some PROFOUND reason for having to complete it (even if you have to make up the reason--and remember Nietzche's dictum: he who has a why to live can exist with any how) and keep plugging away, drink coffee, become the hero of your own life (a la Joseph Campbell). But please, don't look for ways to make the process more congenial: there ain't no such way.
Rating: 
Summary: START NOW
Review: When I first saw the book a strong urge came over me to get it. My inner critic said, what for? You're not a Phd candidate. Sure, you're writing a paper for a masters program but it isn't the same as a dissertation. Don't waste your money. The argument was sound but the book's call was much stronger. I purchased it. It was the best investment that I had made. Whether you are a Phd candidate trying to get your dissertation done or a wannabe intimidated by the thought of having to write one, this book must be on your required reading list! If you have successfully completed high school, college and graduate school (masters level) then you have already written your fair share of papers. You have the technical and disciplined skills to write. Well then, what is the problem in doing a dissertation? Bolker teaches one about learning how to develop a process of writing that is best for you. Once done she moves you from the process to the basic mechanics of getting the dissertation done. It is never to late in getting a head start on learning how to finish your doctoral thesis even before you are accepted into a Phd program. Start Now! The book is a tremendous stimulator.
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