Steps for writing assignments
Follow this step-by-step guide to assignment writing to help you to manage your time and produce a better assignment.
This is a general guide. It's primarily for research essays, but can be used for all assignments. The specific requirements for your course may be different. Make sure you read through any assignment requirements carefully and ask your lecturer or tutor if you're unsure how to meet them.
5. Editing your assignment
Make sure you schedule time to edit and proofread your assignment before you submit it. Editing can help you achieve significantly better marks.
You should plan for at least:
- half a day to take a break from your assignment so you can review it with fresh eyes
- one hour per 1000–2000 words for editing and proofreading.
Read aloud
Reading your assignment aloud will help you check whether:
- your writing flows, ideas are linked and the overall argument makes sense
- there are any grammar, spelling or punctuation errors.
You can also read it aloud to someone else, and get them to ask questions or point out issues as you read.
Check style, formatting and grammar
Make sure your assignment meets the style and formatting requirements of your course, school or faculty (including font size, spacing, headings and referencing).
When editing your assignment, try to:
- use a spellchecker to check grammar, spelling and punctuation, but check any changes before accepting them, and do your own proofreading
- vary your sentence length
- use active voice and strong verbs
- choose accurate and clear language – don't use 'impressive' words for no reason
- be concise – look for words you can cut out without losing meaning or flow.
Learning Advisers
Our advisers can help undergraduate and postgraduate students in all programs clarify ideas from workshops, help you develop skills and give feedback on assignments.