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 know). remove hedging words/phrases (words that signify hesitation/uncertainty, e.g. it seems that, kind of, pretty much, sort of) avoid repetition (e.g. “Three sorts of X exist, the three sorts of X are…” Use the active voice (the subject performs the action, e.g. “Jo loves university”) rather than the passive voice (the action is done to the subject, e.g. “University is loved by Jo”). For further help with writing concisely see...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
StudyUp sessions next week are as follows: Referencing: Don’t lose easy marks – Using APA referencing in university assignments Monday 23 November 2015: 7:30am 12 noon In your own words: How to avoid plagiarism...Read more
Have a clear purpose: Before reading any text make sure you know what you want to get out of it. This could include things like understanding a theory or argument or finding a definition. Having a clear purpose will help you take more focused...Read more
StudyUp sessions next week are as follows: Hit the ground running: Starting Study: How to get going & Time management skills Monday 16 November 2015: 7:30am 12 noon Death by Textbook: Strategic Reading: what to read, how much to...Read more
It is often hard to get motivated to study. One good way to keep you motivated is to think about your goals for studying. Start by writing down your long-term goals and then set some short-term goals (for the next few weeks). Keep a copy of your...Read more
Start by making a plan for your study time. Then collect information from the notes you’ve made during the course of the paper. Then pick out the most important points and makes summaries. There are lots of different ways of to organise...Read more
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