It is usually best to avoid sentence fragments and try to ensure that all sentences are complete (contain a verb and a subject, e.g. I will argue that…). One way of checking for sentence fragments is to make sure the sentence makes sense in its own right. You can do this by: reading an assignment back to front: start with the last sentence and read each sentence through to the start. If the sentence doesn’t make sense, then it may need revising. imagining someone has just entered the room and spoken the sentence out loud. If the sentence doesn’t make sense, then it may need revising. For more information see...Read more
Once you’re familiar with it, Endnote can save you time. It does much of the formatting automatically and you can download most references at the click of a button, rather than having to laboriously type them out! And it is free for Massey...Read more
It can be easy to exceed the word limit. Some lecturers are stricter than others regarding word limits. Normally they won’t mind if you go under of over the word limit by 10%. However, it is a good idea to try and get as close to the limit as you...Read more
Some tips for avoiding repetition: Make sure the assignment has a clear structure. Only put details (examples, evidence, explanations etc.) in one place in the essay; namely, where the details offers the best support for the thesis. If you have...Read more
One way to check the structure and flow of your assignment is to read the first sentence of each paragraph (skim reading). This will help ensure that each paragraph has a clear topic/point that links to your answer to the question. Use spelling...Read more
Here are a few ways of using fewer words: use verbs instead of nouns where possible cut out abstract nouns where possible (e.g. In reality… In truth…) remove filler words/phrases (words fill gaps in a spoken language, e.g. well, then, you...Read more
One way to approach critical thinking in the context of an essay is to break it down into stages. Start by identifying the argument: What is being argued? What reasons/evidence are given? Evaluate/assess the reason/evidence given and...Read more
StudyUp sessions next week are as follows: Don’t shout, just argue – Refining the thesis statement and perfecting those paragraphs Monday 30 November 2015: 7:30am 12 noon Say what? How to read for meaning – Work out...Read more
Usually an introduction includes three parts: A broad opening statement that introduces the broad topic of the essay (a couple of sentences). A link to the topic of the essay – narrowing the focus to the part of the topic the question is asking...Read more
The first two sessions of StudyUp will be repeated on Thursday 26th November 12-noon to 1pm (with an addition 30 minutes for questions): Hit the ground running (Starting Study: How to get going – Time management skills) and Death by textbook...Read more
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