Writing Sample

[Allie]

I have a question about writing samples. I have a couple publications but not really closely tied to my dissertation so I think I need to send something more current for my writing sample. I have an article that I am preparing to send out for review and also a chapters from my diss. What do you think is best, an article (not yet published) or a diss chapter. I can see the pro's and con's of going either direction...but I wanted to ask what everyone else thinks?

[guido]

If your pubs are sole- or first-authored, I'd send one or two of those, even if they're unrelated to your dissertation. Otherwise, I'd say just send your best work. I have a couple sole-authored pubs that are kind of unrelated to my dissertation. I plan to send one or both of those, along with a recently completed chapter from my dissertation. I'm pleased with how the dissertation chapter turned out. Plus, I thought search committees would like to 1) see what I'm up to know, and 2) see evidence that I will graduate when I say I plan to.

[similar question]

Sorry to piggyback, but I am in a related position. I have one recently published article, as well as chapters of my dissertation. I also have a publication from 2006 that feels a little dated now, as there has been a lot of work in the area since then, including my dissertation. I also have an as-yet unpublished article (R&R awaiting a final decision). If I want to send three things, do I send the slightly dated publication or the more relevant but not yet published piece?

[writing]

I would send a publication, the R&R, and a dissertation chapter. The choice is up to you as which published piece is stronger or in a higher status journal.

Remember, search committees want to know that you'll be finished with your dissertation (and what it's about so they can assess likelihood of impact) but also like evidence that you can publish.

[annonny]

I say always just send whatever writing samples you think are strongest. I can't see how anyone does themselves a favor by choosing a writing sample based on where/when it got published. You don't need a wiriting sample to demonstrate your credentials, because the cv already does that. Just send whatever you think won't bore the person reading it.

[styles]

Even a polished chapter of a dissertation doesn't not confirm that you will be done in time, at least in the eyes of faculty. Your letter writers (or at least your chair) should be making this case for you…that is, if it is accurate.

There are two major considerations: (1) showing independent research potential and (2) fit.

Whether it is an open search or not, the first point should be considered first....then move to the second point.

1) If you have first/sole authored papers (even if they are somewhat dated) send them.
2) If the position is open then send whatever else is strongest (published, r&r, under review) but consider weighing those papers that you are also first/sole author on even if they are r&r or under review. If the position is specific to an area of research then try to send something that "fits" that area of specialty, again something that is first/sole authored and at least r&r or under review.

[Guest]

Several places have online job applications that only allow you to submit one or two writing samples. I had intentions of sending three. Does anyone have ideas of how to send more samples? One option is to send it to the physical address provided. Anyone with experience in this area?

[reason]

They may have a reason for limiting it to one or two. I wouldn't submit more unless asked to. You could always contact them to ask.