Content Summary

In this step we look at the final stage of assignment writing – editing and polishing. This is a vital, separate phase from drafting. Editing improves grades and eases the marker’s job. We do this by:

  • Considering the balance and appropriateness of your arguments – Does it answer the question properly?
  • Checking for clarity – Is it clear what you mean?
  • Proofreading – Are grammar and spelling accurate?
  • Tightening up wording – Are any sentences too long? Are words precise enough?
  • Listening to the assignment read out loud – When someone else reads it to you, does it flow well?
  • Reviewing formatting – Does it look right? Are citations included correctly?
  • Checking the references – Are citations and bibliography accurate?

By the end of this step, you will have a polished assignment.


Resources


Assignment checklist

The following is a checklist that you can use before you send in your assignment.  It contains the sorts of things that are necessary for most assignments.

Look at the item on the list and see if your assignment includes that feature.  If it doesn’t, then consider whether it is appropriate to include it.  The grading criteria will help you decide, and you can ask your tutor or lecturer.

Content

  • Question answered
  • Essay checked against rubric / assessment criteria

Structure (Essays)

Introduction

  • Clear statement of issue
  • Chief finding
  • Significance of topic
  • Indication of any long standing debates
  • How you limited the topic

Body

  • Logical development and depth of argument
  • Appropriate number of sources used and referred to throughout
  • Critical analysis
  • Range of views
  • Opposition’s case refuted
  • Own case’s weaknesses identified

Conclusion

  • Findings summarised
  •  No new material introduced

Miscellaneous

  • Appropriate number of books, journals and other sources in bibliography
  • Appropriate number of newer items in bibliography
  • Correct formatting of Bibliography and Footnotes
  • Inclusion of extra material if required (eg Table of Contents for book reviews, if required)
  • Spelling / punctuation / grammar checked
  • Within word limit +/- 10%

Last modified: Wednesday, 30 July 2025, 4:25 PM