How to make assignments and exams easier for yourself

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How to make assignments and exams easier for yourself

21 April 2023

We know that revising for resit exams and getting ready to submit your assignments for this resit period can be a stressful time. But there are certain steps you can do to make the whole process easier. Here are 8 key tips to help you along the way and ensure you make the best out of your time so that you submit your work with confidence.

For your assignments, remember to...

1. Use the feedback

Take the comments and feedback that you received on your previous assignments and see how you can implement them in your work. Recognise your strengths and weaknesses so you know what to focus on.

2. Do you understand what’s being asked?

Get off to a good start by spending time understanding what you have been asked to do. Break down any assignment guidelines that you have been given and use them as a checklist to ensure you have covered everything that has been asked of you. You can also attend one of our Study Skills Workshops to help you get a better understanding of how to approach different assignments.

A young student reading a book in a library.

3. Planning is key

be systematic in how you are tackling your assignments. Rather than jumping straight into it, spend some time breaking down your word count and considering all the points and relevant research you are going to include in your work. A detailed, structured plan will make your writing process easier

4. Seek support

Speak with module tutors if you are unsure of what you have to do for your assignment or book an appointment with the Study Support Team to check if you are heading in the right direction with your work.

5. Edit and proofread your work

dedicate some time to go over all that you have written before you submit. Check that what you have written makes sense and has address your assignment brief correctly. You can find some more tips on our page for editing and proofreading.

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For your exams, remember

6. Are you learning or revising?

Revision is focused on covering what you already know. If there are some topics that you have yet to learn or understand, make sure you factor extra time into your revision schedule to go over them.

7. Be strategic

Target your revision sessions around the time of day and environment when you are most productive. Plan what you want to cover within these revision sessions but make sure you are being realistic in what is feasible to achieve within the time you have.

8. Revise actively

Whether you are taking notes on cue cards or attempting practice questions, try and be more active in your revision. Active revision is more effective in helping you to remember and process the information you may be reading.

You can find further guidance on our Exam Tips page.