The Writer: A Guide to Research, Writing, and Publishing in Biblical Studies

by Nijay K. Gupta

Students are expected to research and write, but they aren’t always taught how to do these things well. The Writer walks through Nijay K. Gupta’s approach to and best practices for becoming an effective and efficient writer in biblical studies. He handles a wide spectrum of issues from idea conception to research and note-taking to book proposals and contracts to working with publishers and more. Gupta shares his own publishing autobiography, offering the chance for aspiring writers to learn from the ups and downs of his experiences.

Genres: Writing, Biblical Studies, Nonfiction

128 pages, Paperback

Published November 1, 2022

About the author

Nijay K. Gupta is Professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary. He has written or edited more than twenty books and has published dozens of academic articles. He is an award-winning researcher and a member of the Society of New Testament Studies.

Reviews

[Shane Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

2024 reads: 13

Rating: 5 stars

Immensely practical and accessible.

[Matthew McBirth · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short book on writing in academia. Gupta did well in explaining the writing process from beginning to end. Helpful, concise, and something I'd recommend to any student.

[Steven Reid · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a practically helpful, well-written, and well-structured book. Whether you are considering a Ph. D. in Christian studies, are a new academic professional, a seasoned academic professional who has found their writing career to be unsatisfactory, or a novice just considering what a writing career might look like (such as myself) this book will provide beneficial information and be a lifelong resource. This is a helpful peek behind the curtain of the academic publishing world that demystifies it and, making the writing and publishing phases seem more attainable.

Nijay Gupta, who has an attested writing career and has taught research methods to Ph. D. students, sets out in The Writer to offer practical helps, particularly for those looking to be published (books, journals, or articles) in the field of Christians studies. This is a 'no frills' book and it is all the better for it. You will not walk away from this book starry-eyed dreaming about all the books you are going to write and the fame you will attain, but you will walk away with a sober mentality concerning the cost of writing and a confidence in the road laid before you from Idea to Final Publication.

And, when I call this book practical I mean it provides the reader with very tangible 'How To' thoughts and ideas for the whole writing process. Gupta provides his 11-step process of research and writing; he gives a deeper look into his particular note-taking process; he provides several lists of helpful resources and databases for building an initial bibliography; and he walks through the whole publication process from initial contact with an editor to finalizing contracts. Because of this, everyone can benefit from reading cover-to-cover or from using it as a handy easy-to-use resource.

If you are seriously considering a writing career this is a great starting point. Practical. Realistic. Helpful. The Writer is a great bridge to a fulfilling and meaningful writing career.

[Matthew Christian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. Will continue to use this for many years to come. Great advice on how to plan, organize and write papers, books and articles. Already started applying this framework to an academic paper I am presenting and very helpful.

[Amy Kimble · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am just starting my doctoral research and this book helped me feel empowered and less intimidated to start the process. I also feel equipped with great tips to stay organized. Highly recommend for new doctoral research students.

[Kat Armstrong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super practical. Wish I'd read this before I started my masters program.

[Mark Nichols · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well-written, as I guess you'd expect! I enjoy reading about writing; it gives me more confidence when I write. A well-presented introduction to publishing theologically.

[Adam Balshan · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars [Rhetoric]
(W: 3.33, U: 4, T: 3.5)
Exact rating: 3.61

Clean, tight, and helpful.

[Jonathan · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy, practical and altogether helpful read. Definitely inspired me to write my dissertation! I loved all of the autobiographical glimpses into Gupta's writing CV as well.

[April Bumgardner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written primarily for graduate students in biblical studies and academics early in their careers. This is a practical reference on how to choose subjects, take and organize notes, as well as information on apps for bibliographic material, how to work with publishers and editors, and tips on writing book proposals and promoting published work.

A slim volume of practical information with a hospitable and generous tone for academic writing.