Preparing for Academic Success at the Graduate Level
Monica Stracuzza
COM/600
September 15, 2014
Gracie Aguilera

Characteristics of Graduate Writing Writing at the graduate level is a significant part of a student's coursework when entering into a Master's program. Throughout a person's college career, they have written many papers in their undergraduate studies, but writing papers at a graduate level differs from previous styles of writing. There are very distinct characteristics in graduate writing. Following the rules of graduate writing correctly, makes for a clear and precise paper; grabbing the audience's attention, and making the point of the paper undeniable to the reader, while using facts and references to support the thesis. Critical thinking skills are a crucial part of graduate writing. Critical thinking allows the writer to see all the different sides of the debate. The writer will question any assumptions that are made all while avoiding the use of commonplaces. The writer, according to "Graduate Level Writing" (2011*2014) "develops a clear argument from the available literature on the subject. This type of writing establishes a purpose while addressing a particular audience. Often, graduate level writing also provides suggestions for further research and development beyond the limits of the course assignment." Another important part in writing at the graduate level is using an in-depth analysis, of the subject being discussed. The paper is based solely on empirical evidence therefore; statements should be objective rather than subjective. The use of and distinguishing between primary and secondary sources gives the author the ability to base their writing on the information obtained from such sources. If the author sticks to the facts, rather than opinion, the use of personal writing will be