I remember that “a-ha” moment when I learned that Beethoven (or Mozart) was not just sitting down with nothing and creating a masterpiece, but was instead working within a structure that dictated an outline or form of a certain type of music. The same is true of the major products of academic work – grants and publications. Even the process of how to formulate a next research question follows a regular process that can be taught, practiced, and understood. Doctoral training is in large part learning these forms and doing a big practice on the form (the dissertation). This is good news, because the form will support you and act as a platform and structure for you to build upon. Look for the forms. Ask about the forms. And most importantly, follow the forms. By mastering the form you will do your work with more ease, will help others know about your work, and ultimately, will be able to embellish or even break free of the form to achieve your goals.