A few days ago
h

how long would it take you to write a 20 page social science research paper, in hours (per day, or whatever)?

i have never written anything longer than 15 pages, and that experience almost killed me. i received an a+, but had to drop another course to do it.

i’ve never been diagnosed with a learning disability, but i do know that i need more time than most people. (disclosure appropriate here, if only for comedic value: i’m an american in the uk… so i’ve gotten away without having to write tons of long essays.)

in fact i’ve found writing for uni to be horrific, owing to a virulant strain of perfectionism. in the past it’s meant going days without sleeping, total isolation from other people, various psychosomatic illnesses/syndromes… all in all, near-total misery.

however. i have been accepted on a very prestigious course, for which i’d have to produce three 20-page papers PER SEMESTER, plus a dissertation. it might kill me. but it’s very highly regarded, and would be useful career-wise.

have also been accepted onto an easier, less demanding and less prestigious course.

thoughts?

Top 6 Answers
A few days ago
Anonymous

Favorite Answer

Wow, that is a great question you asked! I cannot give you even a rough estimate of the many hours it would take me to finish that paper. I can however, tell you that it would take me a very long time, because I, much like you, am a perfectionist. I have been known to write the same 20 page paper 60 times in 20 days! I will have it all complete, read it, decide there is something in there that I do not like, and delete the entire paper! I have gone manic from caffeine pills, coffee, red bull and no sleep for 120 hours (5 days). The only thing I can say to you is work on it everyday, but do not throw it away. Save every update and change things periodically until you are finished. You CAN accomplish this! Just do not procrastinate at all and when the last day comes to work on it, work on it, print it out, and be done- you’ve done your best!
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A few days ago
Anonymous
You may be taking on too much. (Particularly the part about wanting to be comfortable!) But I am loath to advise anyone to take a “less demanding” course.

Have you studied the writing process (and I don’t mean back in high school, because if there’s anything in American life that doesn’t count it’s high school!)? I struggled with many aspects of my learning career. I now know I had ADHD before it was fashionable. I was a good writer but my lack of extended focus made it hard for me to complete anything in a timely manner. One suggestion I can offer here is to have a specific time and place each day devoted exclusively to writing. Other suggestions I would have would be too lengthy to attempt here.

Feel free to contact me through Answers and I will be glad to share some of my background in the writing process.

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A few days ago
Mannie मञ्जुला
Is this a major term paper, or a thesis? If so, you’ll want to assure you give yourself ample time to complete it and do a good job as well.

I worked part time in University and was involved in a relationship. When I got handed a major writing assignment, I always made a point of trying to do one page per day, finishing with another three-four days before it was due, so I could look over it and make sure it was up to good academic standards.

Because of your learning disability, I’d give myself as much time as possible. I’d recommend the page per day scenario, but I could understand it might not be for everyone. Regardless, I’d try to set aside some time every week for it. Maybe your weekends are more open then your weekdays? If so, try doing three-four pages every weekend until you’re finished. That’s certainly doable for almost everyone.

Good Luck with your paper!

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A few days ago
merrybodner
The difference between a 15-page paper and a 20-pager is marginal. Once you get going, another five pages is a breeze. Just plot out what you have to do: research, outline, first draft, second draft, proofing, referencing and citing, etc.

One thing to remember: perfection is impossible. Nothing is ever perfect. Just do it right.

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A few days ago
krennao
I love writing, so 20 pages is really nothing to me, If your doing what you love.. well its a breeze, if you need time management, well figure it out. Remember your not the only person that has to do this, And keep in mind how you approach things changes perspective.
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A few days ago
KARA M
For starters, “very highly regarded” is redundant, “highly regarded” will do.

You will be bald by the end from pulling your hair out. There is no doubt in my mind. But, you will be able to pull it off. If you set a schedule for yourself and stick to it, you will be fine.

Also, consider investing in Starbuck’s or Monster.

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