Students writing at tables in the Starr Reading Room.

Writing in Academic Genres

Breakdowns of academic writing moves in model passages from across the disciplines

Academic writing conventions aid in communication by helping writers present information in the places readers expect to find it. The handouts below break down the writing moves in model passages from a variety of academic genres. They highlight both what kinds of information belong in a specific passage and how that information is organized. Studying the strategies successful writers use to organize their ideas can help you present your research with greater clarity and impact.

Get Feedback on Your Paper

Schedule a 1–1 writing consultation to get discipline-specific feedback on your writing from a GWL Fellow.

Book a Consultation

Research Writing

Science Fellowship Writing

Explore GWL Programs

  • Writing Consultations

    Get 1-on-1 feedback at any stage of the writing process—from brainstorming to final edits.

  • Workshops & Panels

    Interactive opportunities to grow your academic writing knowledge or expand your toolkit of skills.

  • Peer-Review Groups

    Groups of 4–7 students who meet weekly to share feedback, make progress, and support one another on a common project.

  • Writing Retreats & All Writes

    Full-day and half-day events where graduate students set goals and write as a community in a quiet, supportive space.