Common problems writing academic assignments

 

Inability to get started Use assignment planning techniques to get your ideas flowing
Getting stuck part way through Have a break
Do more reading
Re-check your mind map or brainstorming
Talk to your lecturer or another student (phone, email or online)
Inadequate reading and note making Do more reading
Take more notes, keeping the essay topic in mind
Organise your notes, references and bibliographic material carefully
Your argument is weak/loses the thread Rethink your argument
Go back to your plan, or where your argument was on track
Discuss your assignment with another person
Running out of stamina Devise your own strategies. Try a ten-minute break every hour to keep you alert.
Exercise more, get regular sleep, eat regular meals, cut down on sugar and caffeine intake, eat more fruit.

 

Adapted from: Broadstock, Harvey, et.al. (2001) Essay Writing: Understanding the Process. Melbourne: Deakin University, pp.

16-17.