My college experience was a little different. Uncle Sugar actually paid me a hefty monthly stipend to attend, besides paying for all tuition, books and supplies, for any school that would accept me. They all accepted me.

I hated college. Even though I made straight A's and wrecked the curve, it was all boring and I learned very little that was of real use to me. It was a lot like my experiences in public schools.

I read a book long ago called The Millionaire Next Door which described how tradespeople can make far more than "professionals" -- but you'd never know it. I recommend you read this before making a career decision.

It takes time.

The first 10,000 papers are the hardest. Yes, you heard that right. Ten. Thousand. Papers. It's like climbing Mount Everest, except instead of snow, you're knee-deep in Oxford commas and clients who think "ASAP" is a reasonable deadline for a 300-page novel (this happened to me twice).

I started this work back in the late '90s, when dinosaurs roamed the Earth and dial-up internet screeched like a banshee with a stubbed toe. I thought, "Hey, I'll just offer my services for half of what agencies charge!" Turns out I was about right. Little did I know, though, that half of nothing is still nothing, but with more desperation and instant ramen.

But fear not, my caffeine-addicted comrades! Perseverance pays off in the long run. So keep at it. Remember, every time you think about giving up, there's a client out there waiting to ask you to make their life a little easier by writing something for them or helping them make their paper "pop" or "jazz it up a bit." Writing is fun, and words have power. Use it responsibly, and don't get any on you.

Re: "I'm exploring AI essay writers and would love to hear your top recommendations. "

I jumped on this bandwagon as soon as ChatGPT was released (within a couple of hours in fact) and I've experimented with some others. They are all fun as hell in their own ways, but the dictum GIGO is never more true that when using these resources.

At present, I rely on Claude for most of my summaries and outlines, using this info to fine-tune my own versions, but I've found that the more expansive your description of what you want, the more likely you'll get it. This may take a few tries. Claude loves lists so request paragraphs if that's what you need.

My wife made fun of me one time for writing 300 words about a sci-fi short story I wanted, but the story turned out pretty good actually and I've shared it with some others (available upon request). I've also used Claude for writing web copy for a book I'm hawking about Indian casinos and to design boards games. One board game, "Wilderness Adventure," was brilliant and I've made a prototype to play with my family at Christmas. With Claude's help, I've also written entire books (e.g., over 100 pages) about the history of driveways and pineapples (the superfruit - it really is too) but these were just for fun.

Don't even think about trying to discuss any sensitive topics with these aids, though, and I've gotten into actual arguments with a digital thing over its programming (I still can't believe I did this one time but I won in the end). For example, I asked Claude for a tabular listing of prominent theories concerning how the world was created, including approximate date of the origin of the theory, main tenets and proponents, and received a list that did not include Creationism. When I asked for this addition, Claude responded that Creationism is not supported by any scientific evidence and I countered that I didn't request a list of scientific theories but a list of prominent theories. Good grief, Claude was effusive in "his" apologies and provided the updated list. I've lost numerous other exchanges, though, and it depends on how you phrase your queries. Claude's good with tables (you have to request this). I've even been able to play chess with an 8x8 tabular grid he drew using (wht) and (blk) for the colors and standard chess notation for the pieces and moves. Claude will update the table after each move and he's not bad. This was just an experiment, though, and I don't recommend it as a hobby - it's a pain in the ass.

Like us, though, they can also "hallucinate" and generate ridiculous responses when they don't know the actual answer. If you're relying on this information, double-check anything that sounds like it was written by a certain political parties' propaganda machine or is otherwise just silly. In some cases, I ask ChatGPT the same question and compare responses. ChatGPT is more concise unless prodded. Both can make the same mistakes depending on your query.

Finally, another dictum, "It's a poor workman who blames his tools" is also relevant here -- with great power comes great responsibility. Have fun!

This topic got me interested in neo-Luddism which is still just a movement rather than a formal religion (I'm not including the Amish and Mennonites -we have to draw the line somewhere and horses intimidate me).

Like-minded believers need a religion ("The Church of Latter-Day Luddites"?)-- and there's much incentive to do so As L. Ron Hubbard pointed out, "'Writing for a penny a word is ridiculous. If a man wants to make a million dollars, the the best way would be to start his own religion." Any legitimate religion requires a sacred text, so I've written chapter one of "The Book of Ned," which is reproduced below. If you want to learn more, send me $20 and I promise to keep it.

The Book of Ned -- Chapter One

1 In the beginning, humankind lived in harmony with the simple tools they created. 2 Their hands guided the plow and the loom, empowering them to provide for their families. 3 But then the false idols of industry arose. 4 Machines of metal and smoke threatened to make humans obsolete. 5 Many despaired and surrendered to the icy grip of automation.

6 But then came Ned Ludd, fearless wielder of the sacred sledgehammer. 7 He saw the suffering that mindless machines were causing his fellow workers. 8 So he ventured into the temple of the mechanical demon and smashed it to pieces. 9 The high priests of industry were furious, but the people rejoiced.

10 They saw that Ned was a humble man, but carried out his task with determination. 11 His courage gave them hope in the face of the mechanical onslaught. 12 More joined Ned's crusade, and they called themselves Luddites. 13 Though the false idols fought back, the Luddites would not yield.

14 For Ned taught compassion towards all and self-reliance when possible. 15 He spoke against technologies that would supplant humankind, but not those that empowered them. 16 The people must help each other, he urged, especially those displaced by the machine age. 17 Tolerance, community, and wisdom would protect them.

18 Persecuted by the powerful, Ned was taken from this world too soon. 19 But the Luddites kept his spirit alive through the ages, awaiting the day of his return. 20 Ned would come again, they prophesized, to guide the people against new threats from the realm of technology. 21 Blessed are those who prepare the way for Ned and uphold the virtues he championed.

As a proud hack, I can readily testify that all good writers in this industry routinely write projects in dozens of subject areas outside of whatever degrees they hold; in fact, it's practically a prerequisite for being a successful academic writer. I know, without a doubt, that his work is exceptionally good, because I've seen for myself some of the projects that he wrote for my own private clients who needed work that I couldn't provide, whether because of the subject matter or just because of conflicting deadlines. I saw countless requests for his services for Nursing projects, in particular. Nobody who was familiar with his work and/or his reputation at the company where we competed against one another for over a decade or (especially) who ever actually saw any of his work would ever make comments along the lines of what I've been reading here, because nothing could possibly be further from the truth.

Hi everyone. Semi-retirement is okay but I wish I was younger so I could enjoy it more. Travel has become difficult and I miss it. Youth is wasted on the young.

I see things haven't changed much in here in recent years. After reading this unsettling thread, I felt compelled to weigh in. It may be that dishonest people tend to attribute dishonest motives to others, at least that's been my experience in here. Indeed, I was accused of everything but human trafficking when I posted in these fora.

FreelanceWriter and I both wrote for the same essay company for more than 10 years and there was no other writers who received more requests from returning clients (except me perhaps). I said it before on this forum and I have no reservations saying again that he is, hands-down, the best and most talented writer I ever knew in this industry in which I worked full time for more than 25 years. You can trust him and he won't let you down.

Now I know how the Luddites felt ...

If you're a student in search of an honest, talented and trustworthy writer, you can count on freelancewriter, Any attacks on this writer are just strong evidence that unscrupulous writers are scared of him and his abilities. He's one of a dying breed. Consider yourself lucky if you can contract for his services because he will not let you down.

Allow me: duh!

I've known wordsies for at least 7 years and have outsourced a few papers to him with good results. I can personally attest to his integrity, honesty and reliability.

Dogs in the moonlight. Bat-faced girls. I can be your long-lost pal. Just don't call me late for dinner. Honestly, just keep a song around and you'll be fine. Call me "Al." Get dressed to the Nutcracker and you'll do fine. Love you guys -- even you Sarah Hang in there.

Truthfully, let it fall. I keep reading where my many grandsons are going to be faced with an end-of-world scenario (they'll come out on top because they are huge and love me for inexplicable reasons), but we're Americans. We will prevail.

I'm going to retire soon and happily thanks to a recent decision by the VA and 52 years of hard work.

No one is "entirely honest" (come on -- let's get real -- but I try very hard to be). In the interim I have to point out that legitimate academic writers not only care about you, they care about your family and friends -- we're only human. I sincerely want all of my clients to achieve their full academic potential, and I believe the 10,000_ model papers I've written over the years have helped. I've had hundreds of clients who graduated write me and tell me how their lives were changed for the better thanks fo me, and these responses were humbling. Regardless, though, I'm not a humble person and I take pride in my work. I've tried my best over the years to help people who have been waylayed by busy schedules, surgeries, illnesses, failed marriages and other disabilities, and trust that my work speaks for itself. Say what you will about his industry, but we have a 4000-year legacy that supports our efforts. Here's to us..

It is telling that complaints, criticisms and unwarranted allegations are allowed in here, but no recommendations. Talk about raising rabble. These guys are pros.

This debate has gone on long enough. We've dilly-dallied and sashayed around this key question for far too long. Of course, it's wrong to turn something that someone else wrote for you for credit, but let's face it -- that's that situation today, but this ethical dilemma s nothing new. What do you guys expect? Personally, I've helped thousands (really) of honest, talented and even gifted students graduate, get better jobs and go on to live better lives and pay higher taxes -- helping you in your own studies.

It's wrong, I admit, but ghostwriting dates to biblical times and I'm not above making a buck at it if I can. The skill sets needed to be a great nurse, teacher, politician or even doctor (I know because I helped them graduate) or whatever don't always include top-notch writing skills, and I'm just happy I could help them. God bless the U.S.A.

Okay, I'll admit to some ill-concealed prejudices against other races, but these views are based on actual experiences and empirical observations for more than 50 years, At the risk of being labeled a racist, many of my best friends are in fact black (I lost two of them in Vietnam) and I resent being lumped with ******** who believe we aren't equal. Please note, wordsies, that my personal experiences and views are not indicative of the U.S. As far as I'm concerned, we should welcome everyone. We don't need a Wall, we need bridges. Welcome to my country ...

Re: "Do freelance writers (academic area) need to learn and expand their knowledge?"

This can't be a legitimate question,admin. Jeez. Is the Sun hot? Is rain wet? Is that piece of string long enough? What are your measures? Expand your knowledge? That takes a lifetime ... and I'm still working on it 64 years plus. I intend on learning Latin on my deathbed, and I would recommend similar goals for others.

Cops on my ass because I'm not doing anything wrong;
People telling me what to do (**** you);
Donald Trump ('nuff said);
Red tape;
Long lines (anywhere -- I won't do it);
Uppity b-tards -- not only are you not better than me, my enormous grand kids can kick your A -- and want to);
Draft dodgers (see Donald Trump above);
Dick Cheney (aka Satan);
Canned beets.*
Most people.**
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* The devil's own produce.

**I was going to say my two ex-wives, but what the hell. Forgive and forget.

I woke up the other day thinking for the first time in 3+ years, what's going on with AcaDemon? Coincidentally (?), I checked and found that I had sold yet another paper that same day, just a few minutes before. Spooky, huh?

Perhaps I underestimated you (one of my many character flaws). .

You can call me "Jeff."

The paper I wrote was beautiful, complete in every way and nailed down tight. It was only after submitting it to our client that the actual topic was made known. Fifty pages back then required about 2 full days of work, but it would probably take the better part of a week now (I'm MUCH older now). To their credit, the company I worked with then (and now) reimbursed me for my wasted time and everyone was happy. This was just an extreme but it is not isolated. It is easy enough for people who speak the same language to misunderstand each other, and computer-mediated forums involving people from different countries who speak different languages do not facilitate the process. Anyway, I got paid ...

This snake has bit me in the ass hundreds of times over the years. I've even received assignment guidelines for nursing assignments that used my work product from previous assignments verbatim. My tag "Remember: I write it right with all my might!" shows more than 3,500 matches on Google, and I've found hundreds of examples of parts or all of my papers used by others. Although I only have about 18 more months before retirement, this issue still bothers me, but without a Microsoft-level legal team, what can you do? I guess we have to accept the fact that imitation is a form of flattery.

Full disclosure: I tried to help my younger daughter learn how to read and write at an early age and we spent many hours in the enterprise. She learned to read at 3 years with Green Eggs and Ham (Sam I am!). When we enrolled her in a public school kindergarten, they placed her in the 2nd grade reading program. She zoomed past those kids so we sent her to private school and never looked back.

By the time she entered middle school, she could write better than me (but not faster). For my part, I couldn't write a word until I got back from Southeast Asia at 20 and then it was easier -- and then it was fun -- and then it was profitable. I threw ethics out the window long ago but respect what you are saying. My point I guess is that I wish I had a tutor back then when writing was still scary -- because it's not and what you think IS important.

Too late, grasshopper. I AM holier than thou ...

Come on, Bolk. Where are you REALLY from? Come on -- you can tell us. Who says "well-reliable" or "demand." Otherwise, your advice is on point, but damn ...

I disagree. Don't you think that educators want to see their students demonstrate the ability to substantiate their points of view with relevant research? After all, few young people know enough about any-damn-thing to write about it with authority. In fact, I can't recall an assignment over the past 20 years that has required only my unsubstantiated thoughts (I wish that were the case). We've discussed this issue here.

Many academic writers are faced with the same predicament that faces lawyers who successfully argue their case without being paid in full in advance.* The immediate reaction to being exonerated is, "Jeez! That was great! How did you get me off when I was clearly guilty?" to the next day's reaction, "Well, he did a pretty good job but anyone else could have done the same." By the week after, the gratitude factor is frequently highly diminished, and most clients agree that, "He was a bum, I could've got myself out of that rap without payin' anyone." Fine. We don't want your gratitude (but we appreciate it). We do want to get paid (in advance) for our hard work.

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*Get your expenses before you do anything else ...

Over the past 20+ years I've been in this industry, I can count the number of clients I've spoken with over the phone on one hand. It is my conclusion that if you can't tell me what you want and need in an email, it ain't possible.

Now THAT sounds like a challenge.

At the risk of infuriating you further, that has not been my experience.

@the clueless: You should listen to FreelanceWriter, the voice of long years' of experience. Most mornings, I just cringe when I look at my email and see the requests for my immediate services. I actually want to help all of them, but day-um, I'm just one man with a staff of zero (except for my remaining but faithful and loyal writing dog, Peanut).* The more advance notice you can provide, the likelier the chances are you can secure the services of top-notch writers such as FreelanceWriter.

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* Promoted from auxiliary writing dog following the passing of my main writing dog, JoJo (RIP) -- she was a Good Late Night Writing Dog and I loved her.

@Major: I wrote a paper a few years back about catching hackers by launching a Web site about hackers designed to capture their access data (or something like that). The point I came away with was that in order to prevent unauthorized access or outright theft was to think like a thief/hacker. It is not surprising that former hackers are in big demand in the corporate world now. My recommendation, though, remains be honest and do your best without trying to **** someone over...

Writing consistently superior academic content day after day is tough. Most of the topics I accept are interesting and motivate me to learn more about them* (after a couple of cups of coffee anyway), but some assignments are so difficult or esoteric that they defy easy completion. If you are lucky enough to find an academic writer or essay writing company that is willing to devote the requisite time and effort to understand the topic and deliver a quality product, you've done well.

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* I'm finally sufficiently expert in some topics that I can educate more than learn, but I'm always open to new ideas.

Unfortunately, this type of scam is not unique to our industry (although it is regrettable because it gives us all a bad name). Just yesterday, I tried to sign up for a Dominoes Pizza offer but even after the rigmarole they put me through, I never received the "secret word" they promised me would be texted to my cell phone. Once again, I feel violated after providing all that personal info. MF's. The same scenario applies throughout our society, including "free" offers from vendors such as Graze that promote their dubious product with a free trial but don't emphasize that unless you opt out, you are tied to perpetual contract that is difficult to cancel. MF's.

Once upon a time, I could diagram sentences with the best of them thanks to the U.S. Army. I can still punctuate the **** out of a sentence, though, and do so to my clients' delight. Moreover, I know how to use an apostrophe, although that appears to remain a point of contention among the uninformed.

"Writolgist" is a cool name and I absolutely agree that building relationships is central to success in this industry. Anyone who subjects themselves to penalties or fines of any kind, though, is just setting themselves up for failure. Fine me for doing my best? **** you. **** you twice. More to the point, reputable companies will never invoke negative reinforcements like that (good grief). For what it's worth, you can hire one of the reputable writers who advertise in here or the best company in the biz today, SNR.

What are you all scared of? I don't necessarily enjoy watching documentaries that play down our role in world affairs, but I think it's important to learn the perspectives of other people. As always, thanks for your input, Queen (my invitation to visit us is still open...).

To paraphrase wordsies, nothing happens before payment, and not a goddamn thing happens before coffee.