I just got my dissertation chapter back with 40 pages of comments. I opened it, saw the red ink, and closed it. I haven't looked at it for three days.
A writing guide says: “Don't respond immediately. Let it sit for a day or two. Then sort comments by type: easy fixes, clarifications, structural issues, conceptual challenges.”
I tried this. I have a spreadsheet now. Easy fixes: 20. Clarifications: 12. Structural: 6. Conceptual: 2. Seeing the numbers helps. It's not an avalanche; it's a list.
Another tip: “Start with the easy stuff. Build momentum. You'll feel productive, and the big issues will seem less overwhelming.”
I'm also supposed to write a response letter explaining what I changed (and why I didn't change certain things). A professor said: “Be respectful but firm. You don't have to accept every suggestion. Just explain your reasoning.”
For those who've survived major revisions, how do you stop taking feedback personally? I know my committee wants me to succeed, but the red ink feels like a judgment.
A writing guide says: “Don't respond immediately. Let it sit for a day or two. Then sort comments by type: easy fixes, clarifications, structural issues, conceptual challenges.”
I tried this. I have a spreadsheet now. Easy fixes: 20. Clarifications: 12. Structural: 6. Conceptual: 2. Seeing the numbers helps. It's not an avalanche; it's a list.
Another tip: “Start with the easy stuff. Build momentum. You'll feel productive, and the big issues will seem less overwhelming.”
I'm also supposed to write a response letter explaining what I changed (and why I didn't change certain things). A professor said: “Be respectful but firm. You don't have to accept every suggestion. Just explain your reasoning.”
For those who've survived major revisions, how do you stop taking feedback personally? I know my committee wants me to succeed, but the red ink feels like a judgment.
