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.
