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Academic Writing - Resources for Students

The resources included on this page are designed to help you assess and develop your academic writing skills.

What's it all about?

What is academic writing?

Academic writing conforms to a particular style and it is one that you will be expected to use at university. It excludes slang and abbreviations but is otherwise normal, clear everyday language.

Academic writing
• Tends to be quite formal in tone
• Has references and evidence to support its claims
• Is often written in the third person

However, academic writing can come in many forms and you may be asked to write an essay, a report or even a reflective journal article. These different types of academic writing adhere to specific styles so always check the type of academic writing you will be expected to do with your tutor.

Academic writing is often one of the main ways that you will be assessed at university and as such it is worthwhile use of your time to make sure that you feel confident in this area.

Assess your skills

Not sure where to start? Have a go at this simple activity designed to help you determine your strengths and development needs.

 

Top 3 activities

Grammar Beagle
grammarbeagle.jpgSome students lose marks for poor grammar and spelling. Check your grammar knowledge with our online quiz.
Note: Internet Explorer is currently the only supported browser for accessing this resource
 
writingevidence.jpgThis page gives advice on how to write a paragraph which contains all of the necessary parts. Use this Information Sheet to find hints and tips which outline the steps required to write a coherent and well-structured paragraph.

How to structure your writing
writingevidence.jpgThis information sheet will help you understand how to structure your writing in a way that makes it most effective. It will help you ensure that your piece of work clearly and effectively communicates its content.
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Further Reading

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groupwork oralcomm notemaking