So, you’ve planned, researched and written your assignment. There’s still one important stage of the writing process to complete before you hit the submit button. Polishing your assignment is just as important as the other stages. Here’s some sparkling tips on putting the finishing touches on your work from the Academic Learning Centre (ALC).
#1. Prepare yourself
Polishing your work requires concentration, patience and time. Ensure that you are not tired, rushed or distracted.
#2. Re-read the question
Don’t forget the marking criteria, closely consider the details.
#3. Read aloud
When you read aloud, your ears will pick up things that your eyes miss.
#4. Don’t always trust your spelling and grammar or choice of words
When in doubt, look it up. Be sure to use an Australian dictionary, thesaurus or website.
#5. Check for clear expression
Are all of your words and phrases necessary? Or are they just taking up space? Your sentences should be concise and to the point. Don’t use three sentences for what you can say in one, and don’t use words that don’t add anything to the point you are making.
#6. Beware unnecessarily elaborate language
Forget trying to seem like an expert or using ‘fancy’ words. Let the content of your assignment do the talking, and make it accessible (but formal) enough for the reader to easily understand the points you are making. There’s no prizes for using the biggest words, instead, concentrate on being clear and concise.
#7. Have any eye for detail
Be sure to check the small words, they count too. Also check for punctuation. Not sure when to use a comma or quotation marks? Look it up. The internet can be a wonderful resource. If you’ve used statistics, double check them too.
#8. Use your referencing guide
Check each reference one-by-one, referring to the guidelines.
#9 Check the formatting
Double check that you’ve formatted your paper properly. If you’d like to know how, the ALC can help you with this.
#10 Find some fresh eyes
If you have someone who can help you, ask them.
#11 Seek support
For extra information on polishing your work, visit the ALC Moodle site for resources and upcoming workshops.
I am a CQUni alumnus, who graduated back in 2010. Straight after graduating, I took a job in media, and later returned to CQUni working full-time as Student Communications Assistant. I remember all too well the panic fuelled ‘all-nighters’, getting lost on campus, confusion over systems, and the general feeling of being unsure. I'm excited to share my experiences and provide some insights into university life.