How to switch a pull chain light to a switch?

It will all depend on where your wall studs and ceiling beams are located, but more than likely you would have to do some drywall repairs.

You could always use a light trick like this:

http://nestingwithgrace.com/diy-sconces-light-without-electricity/

To install a wall light switch where no one previously existed is not a diy job for anyone who has never previously worked with electricity, or who does not have the full array of necessary tools. It will require crawling up into the attic, and 'fishing' the wires across the ceiling, and down behind the wall in between the studs. If the power line is not long enough to reach to where you want the light switch, then a junction box will have to be installed and additional wiring attached.

Attics can be hot and nasty, requiring a mask and protective clothing. The labour cost alone might offset any potential convenience savings of the wall switch.

My suggestion is instead to completely remove the present fixture. Installing a fan light where a fixture previously existed is much more of a diy do-able project. Purchase either a LED integrated (no bulbs) lightfixture with remote control, or a LED integrated fanlight with remote control.

A flush, also called hugger mount fixture, will not hang as low as a drop mount. Hook up the housing and attach to the ceiling as pr regular instructions. If you do not want an overhead fan, or if there is not enough space for the blades, just leave them off.

The remote control can be portable, or can be simply mounted on the wall if you prefer it to be in a fixed location. Try to purchase one with a remote control that can dim the light, as this will offer you more variation in light intensity that can be changed according to time of day or season.

I rigged up a plug-in fixture to a powerbar with a lighted on/ off switch. This is one of my favorite new tricks.

What I have done is purchased a Plug in "Flourescent light" : Modern version ℅ Orilis about $53- for a 4' two bulb TONS of Lumens. the also sell 2' versions . check thier website and email them to ask for free shipping or a special deal- no harm in asking!

I bought the one with a 4' (or 5' ?) cord. BUT, They don't have an on/off on the fixture. I ALSO bought ( separately) a powerbar ( um.. $10 ish maybe more like $15?) with an on/ off lighted switch (plus a regular orange extension cord- the power bar is a three prong plug) My situation was basement lighting.

Anyway, the cord from the fixture will reach about 5' so you would probably be able to position the power bar on your wall or cabinetry ( just hang it on a nail or hook) where you can reach it. Hopefully, the length of cord on the powerbar will be long enough to reach an electrical outlet, without needing an additional orange or other cord.

For me, especially in the basement, the lighting is critical. it's impossibly dark down there if the lights are not working, and I don't DO electrical work.

This solution is not so pretty, but should work. If you are thinking about it you should measure approx the real length you will need depending on what you feel is the best / least obtrusive path for the cord(s). It requires more length of cord to go around the perimeter, than to just cut across.

Good luck.