About Writing

If you have writing to do, it is helpful to know your own writing habits. 

Here is a website you can identify what kind of writer you are (try it, it's fun, there are shapes too): http://writersdiet.com/base.php

Note: you may (wrongly) think that these writer types are for people who write novels, but no, a writer is a writer. Even if you are writing math! It is true.

A movement break is a short pause during a period of activity, especially sedentary work or study, where an individual engages in physical movement. The benefits of movement breaks are multifaceted. Physically, they help reduce muscle stiffness, improve circulation, and can even help with posture. Mentally, they provide a respite from cognitive tasks, which can help reset focus and concentration, reduce stress, and boost creativity and productivity.

The general consensus in cognitive science suggests that any form of break that involves physical activity (e.g. stretching) can aid in divergent thinking---a key component of creativity. Stretching, by momentarily shifting your physical and mental state, might help in overcoming mental blocks and fostering creative solutions.

We integrated stretching into one of our long breaks to boost creativity and problem-solving during the Writing Café!

Here is a short list of such common myths (generated by ChatGPT):

1. You Don’t Need to Write Until Your Research is Complete: Writing can actually be part of the research process. It can help in clarifying thoughts, identifying weaknesses in arguments, and illuminating areas that need further exploration.

2. Mathematical Writing is Purely Technical: While precision and clarity are crucial in mathematical writing, this doesn't mean the writing should lack structure or narrative. A well-written mathematical paper guides the reader through the reasoning, much like a story.

3. Good Mathematics Doesn't Need Good Writing: The belief that the quality of the mathematics is all that matters can undermine the importance of effective communication. Even brilliant ideas need clear and accessible presentation to be understood and appreciated.

4. Only the Results Matter, Not the Presentation: The way results are presented can significantly impact their reception and understanding. A well-organized paper with clear exposition is more likely to be read, understood, and cited.

5. Complex Language is a Sign of Sophistication: Overly complex language or excessive jargon can obscure meaning and make a paper inaccessible. Clarity should be the primary goal in academic writing, even when dealing with complex ideas.