Planning Stages
This is the very first thing you must understand before doing anything else.
Assignment instructions
On many UK master’s programmes, this grade range corresponds to “Merit.”
60-69
This psychological barrier makes students afraid to start writing.
Writer's block
You should submit at least this amount of time before the deadline to avoid technical problems.
24 hours or one day
These help you understand what “good”, “merit”, or “distinction” actually look like
Marking criteria
Marks should not be interpreted as this, even though they look like it.
percentages
This technique involves 25 minutes of focused work followed by 5-minute breaks.
The Pomodoro method
Before submitting, you should double-check formatting, word count, and this critical list.
reference list
This stage involves breaking the assignment into smaller tasks and working backwards from the deadline.
project management
This principle means the marker’s expert decision is trusted and rarely overturned.
academic judgement
The first draft does NOT need to be_ _ _ _ _ _ _
perfect
After submission, assignments may go through moderation and this external review process.
external examining
This type of reading happens early and allows your mind to wander around key debates.
general (exploratory) reading
This grade boundary is rare and considered a “myth” at very high levels.
very hight 80s and above (90+)
After writing your first draft, you should ideally take this before revising.
a break/a day or two away from the text
Students are advised to wait before reading feedback because grades can trigger this.
emotional reactions/strong emotions
This stage focuses on journal articles you are likely to cite directly in your assignment.
Even excellent work can fail if this fundamental requirement is not met.
following assignment instructions
During redrafting, students should check whether they are addressing this core academic skill.
critical thinking /critical analysis
If you disagree with your mark, this process is possible but rarely successful unless procedures were not followed.
appeal