Degree Students: Essay And Dissertations

The key to getting a good grade is preparation. Some of the key steps are:

1. Get your mark scheme / guidance and read it thoroughly. Do you know what you are supposed to be doing?

2. Have you got an ideal example, e.g. last year`s student essay? Can you make a list of what qualities it has that made it of a good standard?

3. Timing. For 1500 words, think that you will need 10 hours reading time, and 6 hours writing time, minimum.

4. Draft your first attempt at least 2 weeks before your deadline. Is your college tutor/supervisor available for formative feedback?

5. If you have poor skills in reading scientific papers improve these as a priority. Not only will they help you now, you can continue to use them throughout your academic career.

6. Write what is relevant ONLY. This reduces your word count and makes sure you are not penalised.

7. Stick within 5 to 10% of the word limit.

8. Write in detail about experiments, hypotheses, discussion, abstract, method where relevant. Vague statements will not get you the grade you want.

9. Don`t be afraid or ashamed to ask your college tutor questions.

10. If you really need help ask an experienced and well educated private tutor!

Good luck