Doing any project takes time and academic writing projects are no exception. Planning it takes time; there's a lot to consider before you even start the planning process.

Here are ten #UoYTips on just that...

Have you read the assessment guidelines / criteria for the task?

These may be issued with the assessment and are usually found on the VLE or department webpages or issued in hardcopy from the department. If available, these will provide clearer instructions about how to approach the assignment. Assessment criteria outline the knowledge, skills and understanding you will need to demonstrate to pass the assessment. Be sure that you understand what's being asked of you. Take a look at our tips on understanding assessment criteria.

What are the guidelines on the presentation of your work?

Is a font style and font size specified? Is line spacing and margin width specified? Does your assignment need to follow a particular structure? Is a cover sheet required?

If you want to set your document up properly, take a look at our guidance on using text processing software.

What kind of writing is specified in the task?

Is it an essay, report, case study, reflection...? The type or genre of writing will determine the style, organisation and conventions you should use. Take a look at examples of that type of work to gain an understanding of form.

Does your assessment specify a specific audience?

Is it for an academic or specialist audience; a professional or business audience; a lay audience? You will need to adapt your style and language to suit your target audience.

What are the expectations in terms of the inclusion of information?

What range of evidence, sources, data etc. is required? Is there a specific context identified in the assignment title? Where will you source this information (e.g. lecture notes, seminar/tutorial notes, prior reading, information on the VLE)? What additional reading will you need to do?

Take a look at our guidance on choosing the right information sources.

Which referencing style is required?

Have you checked the referencing guidelines for your department? Have you completed the online integrity tutorial? Do you intend to use reference management software?

Have you checked the module learning outcomes and grade descriptors?

Module learning outcomes outline the knowledge, skills and understanding you will gain by completing the module. Grade descriptors identify what you will need to do to achieve a specific grade (1st, 2:1, 2:2 etc.). Taking note of these will help you to determine the level you need to be writing at. Take a look at our tips on understanding module learning outcomes.

What is the word limit?

What is included in the word limit? What are the penalties if you are over or under word count? If there are separate tasks, is there a word count for each one?

What is the deadline for the assessment?

Is there a specified time by which you have to submit your assignment on the deadline date? What are the penalties if you go over this deadline? Do you know what the regulations are if you are unable to submit (e.g. because of exceptional circumstances)?

How will you submit?

Where do you need to submit to? If this is an office, what are the office hours? Are you required to submit more than one copy? If you're submitting electronically, do you know where to upload the work? Do you know how to upload it?

Make sure you allow enough time in case you have any problems with printers or electronic submission.