Demystifying Academic Writing: A "TL; DR" Conversation with Dr. Joel Heng Hartse

Students often need help with the complexities of reading and writing at the university level. Dr. Joel Heng Hartse's book, TL; DR: A Very Brief Guide to Reading and Writing in University, aims to alleviate these challenges by offering concise, accessible advice.

This guide is for students navigating the intricacies of academic writing for the first time, as well as writing instructors and other teachers wanting to help their students grasp writing essentials. 

We spoke with Joel to learn more about his motivations for authoring this book and to gather his insights on making academic writing more approachable for students and the people who teach them.  

Q: What motivated you to write TL; DR? 

A: I wanted to address students' everyday anxieties and misconceptions about academic writing and reading by providing them with a straightforward resource to help demystify the process. 

Q: What's a widespread misunderstanding about academic writing?

A: Many students think they must use complicated or "fancy" language. Clarity in conveying your ideas is much more valued in most academic genres.

Q: In your experience, what is the most effective way for students to engage with academic texts? 

A: Engaging with academic texts requires active reading. This means reading with a pen in your hand, taking notes, thinking critically about what's being said, questioning the author's arguments, and relating the content to your own knowledge and experiences. I really believe in summarizing sections in your own words, which can enhance comprehension and retention.

Q: Do you have a top tip for students beginning their university papers? 

A: Start by breaking the assignment down into smaller tasks. Understanding what is asked of you and discussing your ideas with others can also provide clarity and direction.

Q: How can teachers and instructors use TL; DR? 

A: TL; DR is designed not just for students but also as a tool for instructors. It can serve as a supplementary text, offering a fresh perspective on academic writing principles. Instructors can use it to spark discussions, reinforce key concepts, or provide a quick reference for students. Its concise format makes it ideal for classroom settings where time and accessibility are of the essence. This guide can be valuable in helping students grasp the fundamentals of effective academic communication.

Q: Besides your book, where else can students seek academic writing and research help, guidance, or inspiration at SFU?

A: I recommend visiting the Student Learning Commons (or the writing centre at any other university!). A few other helpful resources include:

• The Purdue Online Writing Lab
• WriteAway (for free online writing help in B.C.)
• Writing Commons