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Goal Setting for Academic Writing: The 'Move + Idea' Method

Refine your approach to time and project management when writing by learning how to set effective mini-goals. Reduce procrastination, stay on track, and write more efficiently.

Move + Idea = Writing Magic

On the previous page, we had a look at constructing writing mini-goals around content. This technique can feel strange at first, so to simplify it, consider using this template:

I will [MOVE] + [CONTENT or IDEA].

The word 'move' in this context refers to writing moves. These moves may be activities in the writing process (e.g. rough drafting, outlining, reading/annotating, proofreading, and so on). The moves could also be specific techniques used when drafting (e.g. synthesizing, interpreting, summarising, disproving, and so on).

Let's look at a few examples of the 'I will [MOVE] + [ITEM or IDEA]' template in action:

  • I will critique novel X's depiction of migrant workers.
  • I will summarise the three main components of tool XYZ.
  • I will compare and contrast theory A to theory B.
  • I will search the literature for a systematic review of healthcare intervention ABC.
  • I will outline the discussion chapter.
  • I will proofread my introduction and conclusion.

Hopefully as you consider these examples, you can imagine how they might provide you with a clearer sense of focus and motivation when you sit down to work.

Graphic titled MOVE plus IDEA with four examples. One, I will define universal learning design. Two, I will compare two computational models. Three, I will critique Smith's stance on ABC. Four, I will appraise the design of study XYZ.

Building on the formula

The 'Move + Idea' template above is a great start, but to take your goal-setting game to the next level, try factoring in the other elements we covered on the previous page: time and quantity/length. When we add those in, our new template for setting a writing mini-goal becomes...

[Time] + [Move] + [Quantity/Length] + [Content/Idea] 

Now, in addition to identifying what you will do as a writer (move) and the subject of your move (content/idea), you will specify how much you want to get done (quantity/length) and within what timeframe (time). Consider these examples:

  • I will spend 45 minutes rough drafting two paragraphs about the context surrounding my teaching object.
  • I will search the databases for five studies/articles about arts bursaries in areas of high economic deprivation across two Pomodoro cycles of work.
  • During session #2 of our writing retreat, I will begin coding and analysing my study's focus group transcript to identify 2-3 major themes in their responses.

As you can see, the elements can be arranged into different orders, but in every instance they work together to provide the writer with direction and purpose. Working in this way keeps your goals SMART—an acronym we'll dive into on the next page!

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