How to write an essay at university?

-By Jodi

When I started uni as a mature aged student I was a little concerned that I wouldn’t be able to craft a suitable essay. Now, I can’t say I’ve got it all covered, but there is a marvellous booklet that Deakin distributes called Guide to assignment writing and referencing. So when I had to write my first essay I kept this handy booklet beside me.

  

The Guide has advice and information on how to take notes, how to quote, use of language and style, and my favourite, referencing. Thanks to this information I’ve been able to write and submit essays that are acceptable according to the university’s standards. If you haven't got a copy of the Guide, you can access one online at the Study Skills website. 

On another note, a couple of other books that I’ve found to be useful when writing essays are Style Manual for authors, editors and printers (Wiley), and The Little, Brown Handbook (Fowler, Aaron).

       

These books cover an extensive array of grammatical and stylistic issues that are associated with writing essays. So when it comes to writing essays this trimester, grab your Guide to assignment writing and referencing and keep it close by.

Wishing you all the best with your essay writing this trimester.