www.learnhigher.ac.uk Learning Development Unit

ACADEMIC WRITING CONVENTIONS

Always check your module handbook for marking criteria and what is required from you and

your coursework.

Check you have addressed the question raised in the essay title. One way to ensure this is to

read the essay or exam question, write your paragraph and re-read the question to make

sure you are still sticking to it.

Check you have supported your argument.

Use character size 12, Arial or Times New Roman. Use the appropriate form of referencing.

Make sure your ideas are linked and arranged logically. Use academic English.

Double space or 1.5 your entire essay before submitting it. This is for marking

purposes.

Be clear and concise.

Check that your sentences are grammatically correct.

Use a wide range of simple, compound and complex sentences.

Edit your final draft (3rd) by reading it from the end upwards. You are

searching for errors in grammar, spelling and punctuation. If you proof read sequentially fromthe beginning you will become involved in your ideas and concepts and miss the errors youare looking for. Proof reading from the final paragraph up will focus your attention on spelling,punctuation and grammar.

DO NOT

Use short contracted forms, e.g. it'll, isn't, it's, he's etc.

Use slang, colloquialism and other forms of informal English. Start a sentence with: 'or', 'but',or 'and'. Use phrasal verbs and idioms.

Write text language used for mobile phone messaging.

Use the personal pronoun 'I' unless the style of writing allows for expressing

personal views, experience and reflection.