What is a Dissertation Journal?

I keep a journal devoted to anything involving my dissertation: ideas, notes, affirmations, lists of books to read, etc. 

A dedicated “dissertation journal” gives me space to jot down ideas that I can return to during a writing session. While I could write these things down in a word or google doc, I prefer a journal because it serves as a tangible representation of my progress. I also love the option of using colorful pens and stickers.

I already filled up one journal and frequently reference it for inspiration. For my second one, I decided to number the pages and update a table of contents as I go along. (I wish I’d done this for the first one since I find myself flipping through most of it whenever I want to go back to an idea—you live, you learn). 

What do I Write in My Dissertation Journal?

My Current Table of Contents for Dissertation Journal #2:

• Last Chapter Ideas

• Dissertation Conclusion Ideas

• Notes from Advisor Meeting

• Chapter Conclusion Ideas

• Oral History Notes 

• Poetic Possibilities

• Writing Group Notes

• Chapter Three Revision/Outline

• Notes for next Advisor Meeting or Email

Do You Have a Dedicated Journal?

Keeping a dissertation journal has really contributed to my happiness. If you’re also working on a dissertation, do you have a dissertation journal? If so, what kinds of things do you write in yours? If not, I’d love to know if you end up creating one and how it works out for you. 

If you’re not working on a dissertation, you can still devote a journal to other projects! Dedicating a journal for your ideas can help in your process or development of a goal you want to reach, something you want to learn, or a passion project.