Investigating the language issues in academic writing: A study on the research scholars at VIT University-Vellore

Writing skills are widely considered as the most fundamental and difficult when compared to reading, speaking and listening language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. This study examines the specific difficulties encountered by research scholars at VIT University, Vellore, particularly in mastering the language skills required by research scholars and academic writing. Writing skills are not merely a form of human communication; they are an intricate process that involves the use of symbols and signs to express complex ideas, language, and emotions. Owing to its sophisticated nature, writing is often considered the most demanding of all language skills, particularly for research scholars, graduates, and students operating within an academic environment. Academic writing demands a high level of precision, clarity, and coherence, which require sustained focus and attention. The ability to produce effective academic writing is closely linked to academic success, making it an essential skill for both students and researchers. Despite its importance, writing remains a challenging skill for masters, especially those engaged in research. The present study aimed to explore the specific obstacles that researchers experience in their writing endeavours. A comprehensive questionnaire was used to identify challenegs in academic writing in English, employing both qualitative and quantitative methods. Scholars responded to objective questions, as well as descriptive questions designed to capture their perceptions and opinions on the difficulties of academic writing. This study also provides effective strategies and recommendations for addressing the identified challenges. These findings highlight the importance of providing ample academic practice and targeted support to help scholars improve their writing proficiency. Ultimately, this study aims to enhance academic writing skills among research scholars, thereby contributing to their overall academic success.