FAQs: writing coaching and editing
What does a doctoral writing coach do?
I help you plan, write and finish your thesis – and become a more confident academic writer along the way. I’m an ILM-qualified coach with a PhD in Applied Linguistics, so my sessions combine three things:
- Coaching: I hold you accountable, cheer you on and ask the questions that get you unstuck.
- Teaching: I show you how academic writing works, so you can see what to change and why.
- Feedback: I give you focused feedback on your own drafts, from chapter plans to the words on the page.
Using my Talk Write Done approach, we work on mindset, message and craft. You get exercises, deadlines and step-by-step guidance. And you finish.
Should I get a writing coach or an editor?
It depends where you are. Want help planning, structuring and finishing your thesis? That’s coaching. Got a final draft that needs a careful language check? That’s proofreading and language editing, in line with your university’s rules.
Think of it like training for a marathon. Back in 2007, I decided to run one. I read everything I could about running and roped in a friend for training runs – but I didn’t get any professional help. I finished. It was slow and painful, and I picked up injuries I could have avoided.
Years later, when I started my business, I hired a coach. She was my cheerleader, mentor and sounding board, and she made all the difference. That’s what a good writing coach can do for your thesis.
Can you help me with my thesis or dissertation?
Yes – through coaching. Your thesis has to be your own work, so I don’t developmentally edit or restructure it for you. Instead, I help you:
- Stay on track: regular sessions, deadlines and accountability until you submit
- Build your argument: plan chapters and make your argument clear and logical
- Fix it yourself: spot the patterns in your writing and learn how to change them
- Find your academic voice: write with precision and confidence
- Write clearly in English: express complex ideas without losing your meaning
Literature review, methodology, discussion or the whole thing – I’ll help you finish with confidence. When your draft is final, I can proofread it, within your university’s proofreading policy.
Do you offer developmental editing?
Yes, for journal articles, book chapters and academic books. Not for theses. Developmental editing looks at the big picture:
- Does the text deliver on its promise?
- Is anything missing or unnecessary?
- Is the structure logical for your reader?
- Are you positioned as a credible voice in your field?
I give you detailed guidance on ideas, structure and clarity, so your manuscript is ready for the next stage.
Can you improve the style of my writing?
Yes. For articles, chapters and books, I offer line editing to improve flow, clarity and readability while keeping your voice. For theses, I stick to proofreading and language editing – and coach you to improve your style yourself.
Do you work with writers whose first language isn’t English?
Absolutely. I’ve specialised in supporting researchers writing in English as an additional language for most of my career. I can help you:
- Express complex ideas clearly and confidently
- Understand what your supervisor means by “improve the language”
- Strengthen your academic English while keeping your own voice
- Make sure your expertise shines through
Who do you work with?
Mostly doctoral researchers – at every stage, from prospectus and upgrade to submission and viva. I also work with early-career academics writing articles and books, and with universities that want writing support for their researchers. English can be your first language or an additional one.
Why work with me?
- Experience: 20 years teaching writing in higher education, including 16 years leading postgraduate writing development at Swansea University.
- Language expertise: a PhD in Applied Linguistics, so I can explain why a sentence isn’t working – and how to fix it.
- A proven approach: Talk Write Done has helped researchers get unstuck and finish.
- Your voice stays yours: I strengthen clarity and impact without taking over your writing.
What do clients say?
“Lizzy is an invaluable resource for PhD candidates! She has an exceptional ability to identify and support students’ specific writing needs. I took Lizzy’s course on writing in 2023 and continue to communicate with her regarding other writing support like proofreading. She is skilful, kind, supportive, and professional. She understands the details of a PhD journey and how students feel during this challenging but motivating time. My writing level improved a lot while working with her.” – Alaa Aladnani, PhD Student, University of Leicester
“I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Lizzy to have my dissertation proofread. She demonstrated professionalism and creativity and comes highly recommended to anyone needing expert guidance.” – Fehaid Mesfer
“Dr. Lizzy is a delight to work with. Even after our sessions, she remained available for support. She is meticulous, fast, and highly recommended for editing and proofreading.” – Tahani Almkhlafi
“Big thanks to Lizzy! She helped me write a good reflective statement. I was struggling with structure and clarity, but her one-on-one Zoom class made me feel confident. Lizzy taught me how to incorporate reflection into my writing, proofread my work, and consider the reader. I now write simple, clear, and effective statements for my future career in Physiotherapy.” – Ayanprabati Prabu
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