What is a Peer Writing Group?
A group of graduate students and postdocs from similar fields who read one another's works-in-progress and provide feedback and support. PWGs are led by conveners and meet throughout the academic year.
What are the benefits?
- A safe space to practice sharpening arguments, structuring ideas, and advancing your research.
- Lessons in giving—and receiving—generous and productive criticism.
- The opportunity to learn about other members' projects.
- Bonus: A free set of external deadlines, proven to help move projects along!
A PWG does not provide editing or proofreading services. It is not a substitute for taking a writing course, participating in writing workshops, or working with a tutor.
What are the responsibilities?
Group members must attend all group meetings, faithfully read colleagues' works-in-progress, and submit writing according to an agreed-upon schedule. Peer Writing Groups meet once or twice monthly (3-4 hours total per month) over the academic year (October-March). Participation is free, but continued membership is contingent upon regular attendance.
For more details on the peer review process, please read the graphos_guide_to_effective_peer_review.pdf.
Who can apply?
Any McGill Master's student, Doctoral student, or postdoctoral fellow.