Are you struggling to make timely progress on your doctoral dissertation, master’s thesis seminar papers, journal articles or other ongoing writing projects? The Graduate School can place you with peers in a Writing Accountability Group or find you a Writing Buddy.
What is a Writing Accountability Group?
A writing accountability group is a productive tool to maintain the extended research and writing expected at the graduate level. Joining an accountability group can promote effective writing habits by providing social support and imposing structure on required tasks that can otherwise feel quite isolating. Building and sustaining a community of like-minded people encourages participants to stay focused on their specific work or project.
The process involves commitment, not just to oneself but to others in the group. At regular intervals (usually weekly or biweekly), participants come together and write in each other’s company for a designated block of time. This sense of commitment and mutual support makes the process easier and more efficient, increasing motivation to stick to a writing schedule despite other time-consuming responsibilities.
*** In Fall 2026, the Syracuse University Writing Accountability Group (SUWAG) will meet Thursdays (beginning September 10), 1:00-4:30 p.m. in Bird Library 458*** New this semester, a Writing Center consultant will be available most meetings for individual writing support. Plus free snacks!
What is a Writing Buddy?
Not a fan of working in groups? Try “The Buddy System.” It is good practice to have someone else, like a fellow graduate student, read your material in addition to your advisor. While a writing buddy may not be an expert in your field, they can prove very helpful in making you aware of “muddy” spots, the flow of your writing style and whether or not they are able to make sense of the information you present. Like accountability groups, writing buddies typically meet once a week or every two weeks; unlike accountability groups, writing buddies actually read and comment on each other’s work. Having someone who is available, responsible, interested and invested in your success can inspire you to make sustained headway with your writing.
Ready to start making progress on your writing? Click the link to sign up for SUWAG and/or request a writing buddy. For writing buddies, please note your available times to meet. The more availability you indicate, the easier it will be to place you with a partner.
Questions about SUWAG and the Buddy System can be directed to Peg De Furia (mldefuri@syr.edu) in the Graduate School.