how to submit written assignment

How to Write an Email to Submit an Assignment

Team Desklib

Published: 2023-02-13

An email is an essential tool for communication in the modern world, especially in the academic world. Whether you're a student, teacher, or professional, writing emails has become a crucial part of our daily lives. In the academic world, emails are a common way of submitting assignments, communicating with teachers and professors, and collaborating with classmates.

In order to make a good impression, it would be considered beneficial to write an email to submit an assignment properly. Before moving forward in the blog, let's talk about why is it important to write an email before submitting an assignment. 

Importance of writing an email before turning in an assignment:

An email to submit an assignment allows students to communicate with their teachers in a professional and organized manner. This helps to establish a clear line of communication between the student and teacher and sets the tone for the rest of the course. What happens when you form communication before turning in an assignment is that it gives you a chance to convey the particulars, context, or any other important information that you feel like sharing with the teacher before he or she can keep it in mind before evaluating your paper. 

Moreover, emails can provide a permanent record of communication between the student and teacher. This is useful for both parties, as it allows the teacher to easily refer back to previous correspondence if necessary, and the student to have a record of the communication for their own reference. In addition, emails can be easily saved, archived, and searched, making them a great tool for record-keeping purposes.

In this blog, we'll go over the 6 steps you need to follow to write an effective email for submitting an assignment.

1. Use a professional email address

The first step in writing an email to submit an assignment is to use a professional email address. Your email address is often the first impression people have of you, so it's crucial to choose a professional email address that reflects your identity. Avoid using personal email addresses that include nicknames, humor, or casual language. Instead, use an email address that includes your first and last name, or your initials and last name.

For example, go for "[email protected]" which is a professional email address, whereas "[email protected]" on the other hand is not.

2. Give a clear subject line

The subject line of your email is the first thing people see, so it's important to keep a clear and concise subject line. The subject line should provide an overview of the content of your email, so the recipient knows what to expect.

For example, "Assignment Submission: [Name of Assignment]" is a clear and concise subject line that clearly indicates the purpose of the email. Avoid using vague or misleading subject lines, as this can lead to confusion and can make it more difficult for the recipient to understand the content of your email.

3. Start with a formal greeting

When writing an email to submit an assignment, it's important to start with a formal greeting. The greeting should include the recipient's name if you know it, and a polite salutation such as "Dear [Name],".

If you don't know the recipient's name, use a general greeting such as "Dear Sir/Ma’am,". The greeting sets the tone for the rest of the email, so it's better to choose the right words and tone.

4. Provide a brief introduction

In the next section of your email, provide a brief introduction. This section should briefly introduce yourself and explain the purpose of the email.

For example, "My name is [Your Name] and I am a student in [Name of Course]. I am writing to submit my [Name of Assignment] for your review and feedback." This section should be short and to the point, so the recipient knows who you are and why you're writing.

5. Attach the assignment

The most important part of your email to submit an assignment is to attach the assignment itself. Make sure that the attachment is saved in a file format that is compatible with the recipient's computer, and that the file is clearly labeled with your name and the name of the assignment.

For example, "Name - [Name of Assignment].pdf". It's also a good idea to include a brief description of the attachment in the body of your email, to ensure that the recipient knows what the attachment is.

6. Provide additional information

In this section of your email, provide any additional information that the recipient may need. This could include a brief summary of the assignment, any specific instructions or guidelines that the recipient should follow, and any other relevant information.

For example, "The assignment is based on [Name of Topic] and includes [Number of Pages/Words]. I have followed all the guidelines and instructions provided in the guidebook and as given in the problem statement. 

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Submit Assignments

You are viewing Ultra Course View content

Access your assignments

You can access assignments in the activity stream or in the calendar if your instructor added due dates.

If the due date has passed for an assignment, you’re alerted in the Important section of the activity stream.

More on late work

You can also find your assignments on the Course Content page. Your instructor may also organize assignments in folders and learning modules.

Your instructor may ask you to work on an assignment with a group.

More on group assignments

After you select an assignment, the Details & Information panel appears. View the due date, number of attempts allowed, the time limit if imposed, and possibly goals and a rubric for grading . Check if the due date has passed and if any submissions are or will be late.

Access code

Your instructor may require you to input a 6-digit access code to access the assignment. Instructors issue the access codes, but they might have another person, such as a proctor, deliver the codes. After you type the code, you can open the assignment. You can use the code to resume an assignment you saved. You don't need the code to view your grades and feedback posted by your instructor. If your instructor changes the code between attempts, you'll need to ask for it again.

Your instructor can also secure an assignment with the LockDown Browser . You need to provide the correct access code before the LockDown Browser is launched.

Start your attempt

If no time limit exists, you can view an assignment and you don't have to submit it . When you select Start attempt, you can view the assignment and start working on your submission. Not ready to submit? Select Save and close to save your work and close the assignment. You will be able to return to the assignment at a later date and resume your work. In this scenario, Select Continue attempt to resume working. Do not forget to Submit your work once you are ready to do so. 

If your instructor added a time limit, it appears alongside other assignment details on the Course Content page. You'll also see the time limit on the assignment's Details & Information panel and within the assignment, as you work.   

When you select Start attempt , you'll receive a pop-up window to start the timer before you can access the assignment. If you're not ready to start, select Cancel . After you start, the assignment auto-submits when time is up. If your instructor has enabled the Prohibit Late Submissions option, the assignment will be automatically submitted at the due date if you have not already submitted it yourself

More on time limits  

Continue working on your current attempt. If you have saved a draft, the Continue attempt button shows which attempt you are currently working on.

View your submissions. Once you have exhausted your attempts, select the View submissions button to review your completed submissions.  

After the due date has passed and you open an assignment, you’re alerted that your submission will be marked late. You can view the alert in the Details & Information panel, on the assignment page, and in the submit confirmation window. In the Details & Information panel, you can also see if any submissions are or will be late.

In the panel, you can select your submission in the Grading section and also see that you made a late submission.

If set up by your instructor, you may see zeros for work you haven't submitted after the due date passes. You can still submit attempts to update your grade. Your instructor determines grade penalties for late work.

More on zeros assigned to past due work

More on multiple attempts grades

Watch a video about How to Submit an assignment

The following narrated video provides a visual and auditory representation of some of the information included on this page. For a detailed description of what is portrayed in the video, open the video on YouTube , navigate to More actions , and select Open transcript .

Video: How to Submit an assignment in an Ultra Course

View attached files

Your instructor may attach files that you need to read or use to complete an assignment. Your instructor decides how files appear, such as inline or as attachments.

In most browsers, you can select where the files that you open in courses are downloaded. For example, in Chrome, navigate to Settings > Advanced > Downloads . You can select the location for file downloads and choose if you want the browser to ask each time. In Safari, you have the same capabilities. Navigate to Preferences > General > File download location . You can perform an internet search to learn about file download choices in other browsers.

For video and audio files that appear inline, select the title to open them in new windows. You have controls for play, pause, and volume control. For video files, you can view the video in full screen. You can also download the file.

For media files that appear as attachments, open the menu. Select Download Original File to download images, Word documents, PDFs, or slide presentations to your computer. Select Preview File to open the file on the course page, such as an image.

For image files that appear inline, you can select an image to view it separately.

Submit an assignment

Your instructor provides all the information and files you need to complete an assignment.

Be mindful of the time . If your instructor put a time limit on the assignment , you can keep track of how much time is left. A countdown appears at the top left of your screen and warns you as the time limit gets closer.

The timer keeps counting down when you save a draft or leave an attempt in progress.

Create your submission . You can drag and drop files from your computer directly onto the Submission box. You can also select the Submission box to display the WYSIWYG text editor. To upload a file you can either drag and drop files directly into the Submission box, or you can select the paperclip icon from the tool bar in the WSYWYG edi

Your answers will be auto saved two seconds after you’ve stopped typing. Essay question responses are saved every 10s while you’re typing and also again 2s after you’ve stopped typing. Every time an answer has been auto saved, you will see a Last saved notification at the bottom of the assessment.

If you lose your connection to the internet, you’ll receive a Connection lost warning. Do not refresh the page or use your browser back button, and check that you are connected to the internet.

The warning disappears after 20 seconds. If your connection has not been restored by that time, another warning will let you know that your most recent work wasn’t saved.  

Your work will auto save once the connection is restored and you will be notified.  

Auto saving is independent of your browser’s Undo action. When you use the Undo action, contents change according to your browser settings. Any changes because of an Undo action will auto save. 

To upload a file, you can either drag and drop it from your computer into the Submission box, or  select Attachment - represented by the paper clip icon- and browse for a file from your computer. A status window appears to show the progress of the file upload. Your assignment will be automatically saved after 2 seconds. At this point you'll also preview your file before submitting it.

If you decide to add files and there is a time limit, make sure they have finished uploading before the timer has expired. Otherwise, they won't be included in your submission.   

The preview happens automatically as part of the autosave action .

Text formatting and attachments. You can use the options in the editor to format the text and embed images and attach files . Visit the previous link to see an expanded view of the editor options and detailed instructions.

If you view the editor on a smaller screen, select the plus icon to view the menu of options. You'll find the option to attach a file to your assignment.

Only your instructor can view the content you add.

To use your keyboard to jump to the editor toolbar, press ALT + F10. On a Mac, press Fn + ALT + F10. Use the arrow keys to select an option, such as a numbered list.

Insert from Cloud Storage : You can instantly connect to multiple web apps where you store files, such as in OneDrive ® and Google Drive™. The files you add are copies. If you make a change to a file in cloud storage, you need to upload a new copy to your course. If your browser allows, media files you add from cloud storage display inline.

More on cloud storage

Add to the conversation . If your instructor enabled conversations, select the Open class conversation icon. Anyone can make a contribution to the assignment conversation, including your instructor.

More on conversations

Not ready to submit? Select Save and Close to save your work and continue later. Your text, comments, and files are saved on the page. When you return, you can resume working.

Submit your assignment . Finished? Select Submit when you're ready for your instructor to grade your work. When you submit, a panel appears with the date and time you made the submission. Select the View submission link at the bottom of the panel to review your submission.

The Submit button appears deactivated until you add content or answer at least one question.

Copy and save the unique submission confirmation number for your records. This confirmation confirms the assessment was successfully submitted into the system.

If your instructor allowed one attempt, you can't edit your work after you submit. If your instructor allowed multiple attempts and you submit an attempt past the due date, the attempt will be marked late. Any attempts you submit before the due date aren't marked late.

When you finish your assignment, you must select Submit . If you don't, your instructor won't receive your completed assignment.

Word count in the editor

As you type in the editor for Essay questions and the submission area, the word count appears below the editor. After you save, the word count no longer appears.

These items are included in the word count:

• Individual words
• Text in bulleted or numbered lists, but the bullets or numbers themselves aren't included
• Superscript and subscript text not part of another word

These items and formatting elements don't affect the word count:

• Images, videos, and file attachments
• Math formulas
• Blank spaces and lines
• Alternative text

When you use punctuation to attach words or numbers, the count is affected. For example, "We went...without you" is counted as three words. The words or numbers on either side of the punctuation are counted as one word.

Edit your content

After you add content, open the menu and select Edit to make changes or add more content.

You can edit settings for the files you've added. Select a file in the editor and then select the Edit Attachment icon in the row of editor options. You can add a Display Name and Alternative Text . Alternative text describes the image for people who use screen readers or visit web pages with images turned off.

You can also choose whether to insert the file as a link in the editor or to embed the file directly so it appears inline with other content you've added.

Reorder your text and files

Point to a text block or a file to access the Move icon. Press and drag the text block or file to a new location.

You can use your keyboard to move an item.

• Tab to an item's Move icon.
• Press Enter to activate move mode.
• Use the arrow keys to choose a location.
• Press Enter to drop the item in the new location.

View the rubric

If your instructor added a rubric for grading to an assignment, you can view it before you open the assignment and after you start the attempt. Select This item is graded with a rubric to view the rubric.

If you want, you can view the rubric alongside the assignment instructions. You can expand each rubric criterion to view the achievement levels and organize your efforts to meet the requirements of the graded work.

Anonymously graded assignments

When you open an assignment, you're informed if your submission is set to be graded anonymously:

This assessment will be graded anonymously. Don't include any personal information, such as your name.

Your instructor won't see your name during grading. Your instructor may choose to grade anonymously to eliminate bias. Your instructor can't enable anonymous grading for group assignments.

You shouldn't include any identifying information with your submission. Don't add your name to files you upload or use your name in any text you add.

You won’t see any indication of anonymous grading on your Grades page. Until your instructor posts grades, you'll see Not graded in the Grade column. If your instructor allowed multiple attempts, you'll also see Not graded for each attempt you've submitted.

Timed assignments

Your instructor may limit the amount of time you have to submit your assignment. If you have a time limit, it appears alongside other assignment details on the Course Content page. You'll also see the time limit on the assignment's Details & Information panel and within the assignment, as you work. You'll find a countdown at the top left corner of the screen that will let you know the remaining time in minutes and, during the last minute, the time you have left down to the last second.  

When you select Start attempt , you'll receive a pop-up window to start the timer before you can access the assignment. If you're not ready to start, select Cancel .

If you see View assessment instead of Start attempt , the assignment isn't timed. You don't have to submit an assignment with no time limit when you open it.

If your instructor allows you to submit multiple attempts, the time limit applies to each attempt.

The timer keeps running whether or not you're actively working on the assignment. If you save a draft or leave the assignment window, the countdown continues and your work is saved and submitted when time is up. When you select Save and Close to return to the assignment later, you're reminded that the timer will continue.

The timer appears at the bottom of the window to let you know how much time is left. Your work is saved and submitted automatically when time is up.

Time remaining notifications. When you take a timed assessment, you’ll receive notifications telling you how much time you have left to submit your work. The notifications will depend on how much time your instructor assigned for the assessment: 

• 10 minutes up to 1 hour: You’ll receive a single reminder when 10% of the time remains. For example, for an assessment with a ten-minute time limit, the notification will appear when there’s one minute left. 
• 1 hour or longer: You’ll receive a notification when 50% of the time remains and a second notification when 10% of the time remains. For example, for an assessment with a one-hour time limit, notifications will appear when 30 minutes remain and when there are 6 minutes left. 

You won’t see any time remaining notifications if: 

• Your assessment has a time limit below 10 minutes .
• You are a student with an unlimited time accommodation.

Respondus LockDown Browser

Student - secure assessment.

Your instructor can deliver assignments and tests securely. Secure assessments help promote academic integrity and honesty in student submissions. Your institution may use Respondus tools to administer secure assessments.

About Respondus

Respondus LockDown Browser prevents your access to any other materials, including internet browsers or other software, while you have an assessment open. You can’t refer to external information or copy material from these sources while you take the assessment. Within the LockDown Browser window, the assessment appears like any other Ultra assessment.

Respondus Monitor uses your webcam to prevent your access to physical materials during the assessment. Your instructor may also require you to enable your webcam or show your ID to verify that you're who you say you are.

Visit the Respondus Knowledgebase for help

What can't I do during a secure assessment?

If your instructor set up assessment security, you can't perform these actions:

• Open the assessment in a standard browser window
• Open other programs or browser windows
• Visit other websites
• Copy and paste
• Add files, links, or videos to your submission content
• Use certain keyboard shortcuts

Your instructor may allow you to use the Respondus iPad app. Otherwise, you need to submit a secure assessment with the desktop software.

Download the tools

You need to have Respondus LockDown Browser downloaded on your computer to open a secure assessment in Blackboard Learn. If you haven’t downloaded the tools and try to open the assessment, a message appears with links where to download. Select the link to get started.

Respondus Monitor is included in the LockDown Browser software. Your institution uses a unique LockDown Browser download link and application. Your instructor or your institution's help desk can provide you with the download URL.

Open a secure assessment

On the Course Content page, you can see the tools you need to open secure assessments and submit attempts. When you open a secure assessment, the Details & Information panel appears to provide more information about the grade, number of attempts, and other settings. You see which tools you need to continue.

Before you begin an attempt, be sure to download the required software . Reminder : If you haven’t downloaded the tools and try to open the assessment, a message appears with links where to download.

Select View assessment . LockDown Browser launches in a new window. If your instructor required Respondus Monitor, the startup sequence begins.

Add text and answer questions in the assessment just as you do in a standard browser. You can save drafts of your work and return at later points to continue work or submit. Reminder : You can't add files, links, or videos to the editor when you submit a secure assessment.

View an attempt

You'll also need Respondus LockDown Browser to view submitted attempts for secure assessments. After your instructor posts your grade, you can find it in multiple places without additional software.

To view the correct answers for your submission, you need Respondus LockDown Browser. Open your attempt and select Review results in Respondus LockDown Browser to launch the tool.

Offline Submissions (Student)

Offline submissions.

Your instructor can add assessments that don't require you to upload a submission.

Examples of offline work :

• Oral presentations
• Science fair projects
• Acting performances
• Artwork delivered in person
• Face-to-face team building exercises, panel discussions, and debates

You can view the assessment alongside other content on the Course Content page and on your global and course grades pages. When you access the assessment from these course areas, you're informed you can't submit work online. Your instructor can add instructions, files, a rubric, and goals to help you prepare for the offline work. You can also participate in the assessment's conversations if enabled.

For offline submissions, you can't submit multiple attempts and your instructor can't add a time limit.

When your instructor assigns a grade, you're notified in your activity stream.

On your Course Grades page, your grade appears with Submitted offline . If your instructor used a rubric to grade, the grade pill displays a rubric icon.

Learn - student

Need more help with learn .

Contact your institution's support desk

• Watch videos for students
• Find more help

How to Submit a UNISA Written Assignment on MyUNISA

At Together We Pass we are always looking for ways to help UNISA students. You can find a tutorial below on “How to Submit a UNISA written assignment on MyUNISA”. We explain the process in a simple, step by step manner that is easy to follow.

Find out how to submit a multiple choice assignment on MyUNISA here .

• Click on the module tab you would like to submit an assignment for.

If you cannot see your module in the tabs; use the drop down box

Once you have selected your module; Click on assignments in the menu to the left

You will be taken to a page that looks similar to the one below

You can use the key below to make sense of the table above

• If your assignment is not listed you should click on the link below

Read the instructions and follow the prompts

• If you need help; click on the link for step-by-step instructions such as the ones below

How to submit a UNISA written assignment on myUNISA

Find the module code.

1. Find the module code of the assignment you want to submit in the Course column

2. Find the corresponding number of the assignment, e.g. 2 in the Ass.No. column

3. Click on the Submit link in the Action column next to the assignment number

Step 1: Load assignment file from your PC to myUnisa

4. Click on the Choose File button next to File Name

5. In the Choose File dialog box, select the file you want to upload, and then click Open

6. Select the correct program format from the File Format drop-down list (i.e. MS Word, Excel, PDF etc.)

7. Click on the Continue button.

Step 2: Verify the file details for final submission of your written assignment

Use this step to verify that you are uploading the correct file to the correct course and assignment number.

8. Click on the Continue button to submit your assignment file. If you do not click Continue, no submission action will take place.

9. Large files will take longer to upload than small files. Please be patient after you have clicked Continue.

10. If the wrong details, e.g. file name, appear on the screen, click Back to restart the file upload process.

Step 3: Assignment submission report

This is your proof that your assignment was submitted. It is advisable to print this page for your record purposes.

11. Click on the Return to Assignment List button to go back to the Assignment overview screen.

Watch the video below which shows you how to prepare, format, complete & submit your assignments.

Watch the video tutorial below on H ow to Submit a UNISA Written Assignment on MyUNISA

Written by Kurt Wyngaard

Last updated: April 15, 2018

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17 thoughts on “How to Submit a UNISA Written Assignment on MyUNISA”

Hi My ENN1504 Assignment 1 I resubimit the above assignment on a wrong format , when I want to resubmit again the column was written closed. What must I do to open the resubmit again. Please I need help. Thank you

Unfortunately if it’s closed, then you are unable to resubmit your assignment.

Same here.Yes I agree its been closed ,but the assignment is not due yet.

please help my assignments are not due yet, but there is no submit options they all closed… why is that?

My assignment has been returned as it is a read only pdf document. Please assist on how it should be changed so that it can be marked. Thank you.

Right-click on your PDF assignment and head onto Properties. Once there, make sure that the Read-only box is cleared. Once done, click on apply and your assignment should be marked.

What can I do after I convert my assignment to PDF which page can I send on or I good on email My

Once you’ve completed converting your assignment to PDF, there are prompts on your myUnisa portal which will direct you on where to upload your assignment.

Remember to name your assignment properly so that it can be easily identifiable.

I’m trying to submit my assignment it says error it can’t find the name

Did you receive help ..I have the same issue

Me too have got a problem I submitted the wrong assignment in assignment ,tpn2601 n if I want to resubmit the correct one ,there in the assignment section ,it says it is closed while the due has not yet arrived.there is only the view button .pls help

What do I do, if I want to submit an assignment but it keeps telling my file is too big to upload?

Assignments 5 and 7 I can’t find them

I submitted my written assignment and I got an email confirming my submission but when I click the view button it says blank😭.. Can so help me

I’ve trying to submit my assignment but when i press “choose file” it does not refer me to my files what could be the problem?

Hy I fail to submit written assighment I rly need help

I’m also struggling to submit my written assignment, can someone please help me this one it’s my last chance.

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Understanding Assignments

What this handout is about.

The first step in any successful college writing venture is reading the assignment. While this sounds like a simple task, it can be a tough one. This handout will help you unravel your assignment and begin to craft an effective response. Much of the following advice will involve translating typical assignment terms and practices into meaningful clues to the type of writing your instructor expects. See our short video for more tips.

Basic beginnings

Regardless of the assignment, department, or instructor, adopting these two habits will serve you well :

• Read the assignment carefully as soon as you receive it. Do not put this task off—reading the assignment at the beginning will save you time, stress, and problems later. An assignment can look pretty straightforward at first, particularly if the instructor has provided lots of information. That does not mean it will not take time and effort to complete; you may even have to learn a new skill to complete the assignment.
• Ask the instructor about anything you do not understand. Do not hesitate to approach your instructor. Instructors would prefer to set you straight before you hand the paper in. That’s also when you will find their feedback most useful.

Assignment formats

Many assignments follow a basic format. Assignments often begin with an overview of the topic, include a central verb or verbs that describe the task, and offer some additional suggestions, questions, or prompts to get you started.

An Overview of Some Kind

The instructor might set the stage with some general discussion of the subject of the assignment, introduce the topic, or remind you of something pertinent that you have discussed in class. For example:

“Throughout history, gerbils have played a key role in politics,” or “In the last few weeks of class, we have focused on the evening wear of the housefly …”

The Task of the Assignment

Pay attention; this part tells you what to do when you write the paper. Look for the key verb or verbs in the sentence. Words like analyze, summarize, or compare direct you to think about your topic in a certain way. Also pay attention to words such as how, what, when, where, and why; these words guide your attention toward specific information. (See the section in this handout titled “Key Terms” for more information.)

“Analyze the effect that gerbils had on the Russian Revolution”, or “Suggest an interpretation of housefly undergarments that differs from Darwin’s.”

Additional Material to Think about

Here you will find some questions to use as springboards as you begin to think about the topic. Instructors usually include these questions as suggestions rather than requirements. Do not feel compelled to answer every question unless the instructor asks you to do so. Pay attention to the order of the questions. Sometimes they suggest the thinking process your instructor imagines you will need to follow to begin thinking about the topic.

“You may wish to consider the differing views held by Communist gerbils vs. Monarchist gerbils, or Can there be such a thing as ‘the housefly garment industry’ or is it just a home-based craft?”

These are the instructor’s comments about writing expectations:

“Be concise”, “Write effectively”, or “Argue furiously.”

Technical Details

These instructions usually indicate format rules or guidelines.

“Your paper must be typed in Palatino font on gray paper and must not exceed 600 pages. It is due on the anniversary of Mao Tse-tung’s death.”

The assignment’s parts may not appear in exactly this order, and each part may be very long or really short. Nonetheless, being aware of this standard pattern can help you understand what your instructor wants you to do.

Interpreting the assignment

Ask yourself a few basic questions as you read and jot down the answers on the assignment sheet:

Why did your instructor ask you to do this particular task?

Who is your audience.

• What kind of evidence do you need to support your ideas?

What kind of writing style is acceptable?

• What are the absolute rules of the paper?

Try to look at the question from the point of view of the instructor. Recognize that your instructor has a reason for giving you this assignment and for giving it to you at a particular point in the semester. In every assignment, the instructor has a challenge for you. This challenge could be anything from demonstrating an ability to think clearly to demonstrating an ability to use the library. See the assignment not as a vague suggestion of what to do but as an opportunity to show that you can handle the course material as directed. Paper assignments give you more than a topic to discuss—they ask you to do something with the topic. Keep reminding yourself of that. Be careful to avoid the other extreme as well: do not read more into the assignment than what is there.

Of course, your instructor has given you an assignment so that they will be able to assess your understanding of the course material and give you an appropriate grade. But there is more to it than that. Your instructor has tried to design a learning experience of some kind. Your instructor wants you to think about something in a particular way for a particular reason. If you read the course description at the beginning of your syllabus, review the assigned readings, and consider the assignment itself, you may begin to see the plan, purpose, or approach to the subject matter that your instructor has created for you. If you still aren’t sure of the assignment’s goals, try asking the instructor. For help with this, see our handout on getting feedback .

Given your instructor’s efforts, it helps to answer the question: What is my purpose in completing this assignment? Is it to gather research from a variety of outside sources and present a coherent picture? Is it to take material I have been learning in class and apply it to a new situation? Is it to prove a point one way or another? Key words from the assignment can help you figure this out. Look for key terms in the form of active verbs that tell you what to do.

Key Terms: Finding Those Active Verbs

Here are some common key words and definitions to help you think about assignment terms:

Information words Ask you to demonstrate what you know about the subject, such as who, what, when, where, how, and why.

• define —give the subject’s meaning (according to someone or something). Sometimes you have to give more than one view on the subject’s meaning
• describe —provide details about the subject by answering question words (such as who, what, when, where, how, and why); you might also give details related to the five senses (what you see, hear, feel, taste, and smell)
• explain —give reasons why or examples of how something happened
• illustrate —give descriptive examples of the subject and show how each is connected with the subject
• summarize —briefly list the important ideas you learned about the subject
• trace —outline how something has changed or developed from an earlier time to its current form
• research —gather material from outside sources about the subject, often with the implication or requirement that you will analyze what you have found

Relation words Ask you to demonstrate how things are connected.

• compare —show how two or more things are similar (and, sometimes, different)
• contrast —show how two or more things are dissimilar
• apply —use details that you’ve been given to demonstrate how an idea, theory, or concept works in a particular situation
• cause —show how one event or series of events made something else happen
• relate —show or describe the connections between things

Interpretation words Ask you to defend ideas of your own about the subject. Do not see these words as requesting opinion alone (unless the assignment specifically says so), but as requiring opinion that is supported by concrete evidence. Remember examples, principles, definitions, or concepts from class or research and use them in your interpretation.

• assess —summarize your opinion of the subject and measure it against something
• prove, justify —give reasons or examples to demonstrate how or why something is the truth
• evaluate, respond —state your opinion of the subject as good, bad, or some combination of the two, with examples and reasons
• support —give reasons or evidence for something you believe (be sure to state clearly what it is that you believe)
• synthesize —put two or more things together that have not been put together in class or in your readings before; do not just summarize one and then the other and say that they are similar or different—you must provide a reason for putting them together that runs all the way through the paper
• analyze —determine how individual parts create or relate to the whole, figure out how something works, what it might mean, or why it is important
• argue —take a side and defend it with evidence against the other side

More Clues to Your Purpose As you read the assignment, think about what the teacher does in class:

• What kinds of textbooks or coursepack did your instructor choose for the course—ones that provide background information, explain theories or perspectives, or argue a point of view?
• In lecture, does your instructor ask your opinion, try to prove their point of view, or use keywords that show up again in the assignment?
• What kinds of assignments are typical in this discipline? Social science classes often expect more research. Humanities classes thrive on interpretation and analysis.
• How do the assignments, readings, and lectures work together in the course? Instructors spend time designing courses, sometimes even arguing with their peers about the most effective course materials. Figuring out the overall design to the course will help you understand what each assignment is meant to achieve.

Now, what about your reader? Most undergraduates think of their audience as the instructor. True, your instructor is a good person to keep in mind as you write. But for the purposes of a good paper, think of your audience as someone like your roommate: smart enough to understand a clear, logical argument, but not someone who already knows exactly what is going on in your particular paper. Remember, even if the instructor knows everything there is to know about your paper topic, they still have to read your paper and assess your understanding. In other words, teach the material to your reader.

Aiming a paper at your audience happens in two ways: you make decisions about the tone and the level of information you want to convey.

• Tone means the “voice” of your paper. Should you be chatty, formal, or objective? Usually you will find some happy medium—you do not want to alienate your reader by sounding condescending or superior, but you do not want to, um, like, totally wig on the man, you know? Eschew ostentatious erudition: some students think the way to sound academic is to use big words. Be careful—you can sound ridiculous, especially if you use the wrong big words.
• The level of information you use depends on who you think your audience is. If you imagine your audience as your instructor and they already know everything you have to say, you may find yourself leaving out key information that can cause your argument to be unconvincing and illogical. But you do not have to explain every single word or issue. If you are telling your roommate what happened on your favorite science fiction TV show last night, you do not say, “First a dark-haired white man of average height, wearing a suit and carrying a flashlight, walked into the room. Then a purple alien with fifteen arms and at least three eyes turned around. Then the man smiled slightly. In the background, you could hear a clock ticking. The room was fairly dark and had at least two windows that I saw.” You also do not say, “This guy found some aliens. The end.” Find some balance of useful details that support your main point.

You’ll find a much more detailed discussion of these concepts in our handout on audience .

The Grim Truth

With a few exceptions (including some lab and ethnography reports), you are probably being asked to make an argument. You must convince your audience. It is easy to forget this aim when you are researching and writing; as you become involved in your subject matter, you may become enmeshed in the details and focus on learning or simply telling the information you have found. You need to do more than just repeat what you have read. Your writing should have a point, and you should be able to say it in a sentence. Sometimes instructors call this sentence a “thesis” or a “claim.”

So, if your instructor tells you to write about some aspect of oral hygiene, you do not want to just list: “First, you brush your teeth with a soft brush and some peanut butter. Then, you floss with unwaxed, bologna-flavored string. Finally, gargle with bourbon.” Instead, you could say, “Of all the oral cleaning methods, sandblasting removes the most plaque. Therefore it should be recommended by the American Dental Association.” Or, “From an aesthetic perspective, moldy teeth can be quite charming. However, their joys are short-lived.”

Convincing the reader of your argument is the goal of academic writing. It doesn’t have to say “argument” anywhere in the assignment for you to need one. Look at the assignment and think about what kind of argument you could make about it instead of just seeing it as a checklist of information you have to present. For help with understanding the role of argument in academic writing, see our handout on argument .

What kind of evidence do you need?

There are many kinds of evidence, and what type of evidence will work for your assignment can depend on several factors–the discipline, the parameters of the assignment, and your instructor’s preference. Should you use statistics? Historical examples? Do you need to conduct your own experiment? Can you rely on personal experience? See our handout on evidence for suggestions on how to use evidence appropriately.

Make sure you are clear about this part of the assignment, because your use of evidence will be crucial in writing a successful paper. You are not just learning how to argue; you are learning how to argue with specific types of materials and ideas. Ask your instructor what counts as acceptable evidence. You can also ask a librarian for help. No matter what kind of evidence you use, be sure to cite it correctly—see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial .

You cannot always tell from the assignment just what sort of writing style your instructor expects. The instructor may be really laid back in class but still expect you to sound formal in writing. Or the instructor may be fairly formal in class and ask you to write a reflection paper where you need to use “I” and speak from your own experience.

Try to avoid false associations of a particular field with a style (“art historians like wacky creativity,” or “political scientists are boring and just give facts”) and look instead to the types of readings you have been given in class. No one expects you to write like Plato—just use the readings as a guide for what is standard or preferable to your instructor. When in doubt, ask your instructor about the level of formality they expect.

No matter what field you are writing for or what facts you are including, if you do not write so that your reader can understand your main idea, you have wasted your time. So make clarity your main goal. For specific help with style, see our handout on style .

Technical details about the assignment

The technical information you are given in an assignment always seems like the easy part. This section can actually give you lots of little hints about approaching the task. Find out if elements such as page length and citation format (see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial ) are negotiable. Some professors do not have strong preferences as long as you are consistent and fully answer the assignment. Some professors are very specific and will deduct big points for deviations.

Usually, the page length tells you something important: The instructor thinks the size of the paper is appropriate to the assignment’s parameters. In plain English, your instructor is telling you how many pages it should take for you to answer the question as fully as you are expected to. So if an assignment is two pages long, you cannot pad your paper with examples or reword your main idea several times. Hit your one point early, defend it with the clearest example, and finish quickly. If an assignment is ten pages long, you can be more complex in your main points and examples—and if you can only produce five pages for that assignment, you need to see someone for help—as soon as possible.

Tricks that don’t work

Your instructors are not fooled when you:

• spend more time on the cover page than the essay —graphics, cool binders, and cute titles are no replacement for a well-written paper.
• use huge fonts, wide margins, or extra spacing to pad the page length —these tricks are immediately obvious to the eye. Most instructors use the same word processor you do. They know what’s possible. Such tactics are especially damning when the instructor has a stack of 60 papers to grade and yours is the only one that low-flying airplane pilots could read.
• use a paper from another class that covered “sort of similar” material . Again, the instructor has a particular task for you to fulfill in the assignment that usually relates to course material and lectures. Your other paper may not cover this material, and turning in the same paper for more than one course may constitute an Honor Code violation . Ask the instructor—it can’t hurt.
• get all wacky and “creative” before you answer the question . Showing that you are able to think beyond the boundaries of a simple assignment can be good, but you must do what the assignment calls for first. Again, check with your instructor. A humorous tone can be refreshing for someone grading a stack of papers, but it will not get you a good grade if you have not fulfilled the task.

Critical reading of assignments leads to skills in other types of reading and writing. If you get good at figuring out what the real goals of assignments are, you are going to be better at understanding the goals of all of your classes and fields of study.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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5 tips on writing better university assignments

Lecturer in Student Learning and Communication Development, University of Sydney

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Alexandra Garcia does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

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University life comes with its share of challenges. One of these is writing longer assignments that require higher information, communication and critical thinking skills than what you might have been used to in high school. Here are five tips to help you get ahead.

1. Use all available sources of information

Beyond instructions and deadlines, lecturers make available an increasing number of resources. But students often overlook these.

For example, to understand how your assignment will be graded, you can examine the rubric . This is a chart indicating what you need to do to obtain a high distinction, a credit or a pass, as well as the course objectives – also known as “learning outcomes”.

Other resources include lecture recordings, reading lists, sample assignments and discussion boards. All this information is usually put together in an online platform called a learning management system (LMS). Examples include Blackboard , Moodle , Canvas and iLearn . Research shows students who use their LMS more frequently tend to obtain higher final grades.

If after scrolling through your LMS you still have questions about your assignment, you can check your lecturer’s consultation hours.

2. Take referencing seriously

Plagiarism – using somebody else’s words or ideas without attribution – is a serious offence at university. It is a form of cheating.

In many cases, though, students are unaware they have cheated. They are simply not familiar with referencing styles – such as APA , Harvard , Vancouver , Chicago , etc – or lack the skills to put the information from their sources into their own words.

To avoid making this mistake, you may approach your university’s library, which is likely to offer face-to-face workshops or online resources on referencing. Academic support units may also help with paraphrasing.

You can also use referencing management software, such as EndNote or Mendeley . You can then store your sources, retrieve citations and create reference lists with only a few clicks. For undergraduate students, Zotero has been recommended as it seems to be more user-friendly.

Using this kind of software will certainly save you time searching for and formatting references. However, you still need to become familiar with the citation style in your discipline and revise the formatting accordingly.

3. Plan before you write

If you were to build a house, you wouldn’t start by laying bricks at random. You’d start with a blueprint. Likewise, writing an academic paper requires careful planning: you need to decide the number of sections, their organisation, and the information and sources you will include in each.

Research shows students who prepare detailed outlines produce higher-quality texts. Planning will not only help you get better grades, but will also reduce the time you spend staring blankly at the screen thinking about what to write next.

During the planning stage, using programs like OneNote from Microsoft Office or Outline for Mac can make the task easier as they allow you to organise information in tabs. These bits of information can be easily rearranged for later drafting. Navigating through the tabs is also easier than scrolling through a long Word file.

4. Choose the right words

Which of these sentences is more appropriate for an assignment?

a. “This paper talks about why the planet is getting hotter”, or b. “This paper examines the causes of climate change”.

The written language used at university is more formal and technical than the language you normally use in social media or while chatting with your friends. Academic words tend to be longer and their meaning is also more precise. “Climate change” implies more than just the planet “getting hotter”.

To find the right words, you can use SkELL , which shows you the words that appear more frequently, with your search entry categorised grammatically. For example, if you enter “paper”, it will tell you it is often the subject of verbs such as “present”, “describe”, “examine” and “discuss”.

Another option is the Writefull app, which does a similar job without having to use an online browser.

5. Edit and proofread

If you’re typing the last paragraph of the assignment ten minutes before the deadline, you will be missing a very important step in the writing process: editing and proofreading your text. A 2018 study found a group of university students did significantly better in a test after incorporating the process of planning, drafting and editing in their writing.

You probably already know to check the spelling of a word if it appears underlined in red. You may even use a grammar checker such as Grammarly . However, no software to date can detect every error and it is not uncommon to be given inaccurate suggestions.

So, in addition to your choice of proofreader, you need to improve and expand your grammar knowledge. Check with the academic support services at your university if they offer any relevant courses.

Written communication is a skill that requires effort and dedication. That’s why universities are investing in support services – face-to-face workshops, individual consultations, and online courses – to help students in this process. You can also take advantage of a wide range of web-based resources such as spell checkers, vocabulary tools and referencing software – many of them free.

Improving your written communication will help you succeed at university and beyond.

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When completing a written assignment, drafting a final paper or posting to an online discussion forum, you want to ensure your writing reflects the ideas you are trying to convey. The key to effective writing is clear thinking; you must have clear thinking in order to deliver clear communication so readers understand your messaging.

Here is a must-have writing checklist that will help you express your thoughts in a coherent, cohesive, and engaging manner. Use this checklist to make necessary edits and revisions to your writing, enabling you to submit the best piece of writing possible.

Download your free writing checklist here and get started on improving your writing skills today.  

The checklist will also help you engage with your audience when posting to the discussion forum.

1.   Articulate a clear purpose for writing.

You want to make sure the reader instantly knows why you are writing – What will your writing serve? What do you want the reader to know by the end of the essay, paper, or forum? What is the purpose of the written piece, and what does the writing offer? Be clear and consistent in your messaging.

2.   Stay on topic.

Don’t digress or write on a tangent. Develop content that demonstrates an understanding of the material that stays on topic. Writing off topic not only distracts the reader but also takes away from the valid ideas you are trying to make.

3.   Avoid run-on sentences and “fluff” words and phrases.

Get to the point. Don’t fill up the page or blank spaces with words that don’t add value to the discussion or to the paper you are writing. Keep the language concise and consistent, avoiding those never-ending sentences.

4.   Engage the reader by providing interesting insights and evidence.

Refer to the textbook to cite evidence and verify information from other sources such as journals, articles, etc. Integrate these ideas directly into your writing and provide the reader with intellectual acuity. Make connections to textual evidence, demonstrating a level of mastery on the subject.

5.   Organize your writing so it is logical to the reader.

T here should be a natural beginning, middle, and end to your piece of writing. There should also be a well-balanced rhythm and sequence; keep the pacing consistent throughout and organize your writing into sections so that it is logical to the reader – this will help maintain a distinct fluidity to your writing.

6.   Properly cite your references.

Be sure to reference an appropriate style guide throughout your writing. All references should be properly attributed and cited in a required style format, such as APA or MLA. Reference Purdue University’s Online Writing Lab for a complete MLA Style Guide and APA Style Guide .

7.   Check your spelling and grammar.

We rely so heavily on a text editor, but often a text editor may miss some grammar or spelling mistakes. When drafting a piece of writing, consider using a site such as Grammarly that may catch some hard-to-spot errors.

8.   Review the formatting of your work before you submit.

Make appropriate changes as needed to the font style, font size, headings, line spacing, etc., to give your writing a complete and polished presentation.

9.   Reference a rubric for writing .

A rubric is the perfect way to make sure you completed every portion of the assignment. Referencing a rubric will help ensure you hit the mark on every aspect of the written assignment. Read the post on using a rubric to improve your grade for more details.

Do you need assistance with your writing? Thomas Edison State University offers registered students access to SmartThinking, an online tutorial service (free of charge!) that connects students with a live professional tutor. Visit 7 Strategies to Get the Most Out of Your Online Course for more information.

Editor's Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and has been updated for accuracy.

Written by Heather Russino

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10 Tips for Writing Assignments

Writing assignments are a cornerstone of your academic journey, and honing your assignment writing skills is paramount for your success. Whether you're embarking on your first year or a seasoned academic, the art of effective assignment writing can wield significant influence over your grades and overall educational voyage. In this comprehensive guide, we'll offer you ten invaluable tips to elevate your assignment writing prowess. These strategies, along with expert guidance from our specialized assignment help website writemyessays.com/do-my-assignment.html , will empower you to enhance your writing skills and chart a course towards academic triumph.

Tip 1: Start Early

The first rule of successful assignment writing is to start early. Procrastination is the enemy of quality work. By initiating your assignments as soon as you receive them, you'll have ample time for essential steps such as research, planning, drafting, and revisions. Starting early allows you to manage your time effectively and produce well-crafted assignments.

Tip 2: Understand the Assignment

Before you begin writing, it's essential to thoroughly understand the assignment instructions. Take the time to read and analyze what is expected of you. If any aspects are unclear, don't hesitate to seek clarification from your instructor. Understanding the assignment's requirements is fundamental to meeting them successfully.

Tip 3: Plan Your Work

Effective planning is a cornerstone of assignment writing. Develop a structured plan that includes creating a timeline for your assignment. Break down the work into smaller tasks, allocate sufficient time for research, outlining, drafting, and proofreading. A well-organized plan will keep you on track and reduce stress.

Tip 4: Utilize Campus Resources

Your university offers a wealth of resources to support your writing endeavors. Take advantage of writing centers, libraries, and academic advisors who can provide guidance and feedback on your assignments. These resources are valuable assets that can significantly improve the quality of your work.

Tip 5: Research Thoroughly

High-quality assignments require thorough research. Dive deeply into your chosen topic, utilizing a variety of credible sources such as academic journals, books, and reputable websites. Ensure that you cite your sources correctly to provide evidence for your arguments and maintain academic integrity.

Tip 6: Maintain a Good Writing Style

Developing and maintaining a clear and concise writing style is essential for effective communication in your assignments. Avoid overly complex language and prioritize clarity. Ensure that your assignments have a logical structure with a clear flow of ideas. Your goal is to make your writing accessible and easy for your reader to understand.

Tip 7: Seek Writing Assistance

If you ever find yourself struggling with assignment writing, don't hesitate to seek writing assistance. Many universities offer writing assistance programs staffed by experienced tutors who can provide guidance and feedback on your work. These services are designed to help you refine your writing skills and produce higher-quality assignments.

Tip 8: Proofread and Edit

The importance of proofreading and editing cannot be overstated. After completing your initial draft, take the time to review and edit your work. Check for grammar and punctuation errors, ensure proper formatting, and verify that your assignment aligns with the assignment guidelines. Effective editing will polish your work and enhance its overall quality.

Tip 9: Stay Safe Online

When conducting online research for your assignments, it's essential to prioritize online safety. Use reliable sources and be cautious of plagiarism. Properly cite all your references to maintain academic integrity and avoid unintentional academic misconduct.

Tip 10: Celebrate Your Achievements

Lastly, don't forget to celebrate your achievements in assignment writing. Completing assignments is a significant accomplishment on your academic journey. Reward yourself for your hard work and dedication, and acknowledge your successes. Recognizing your achievements can motivate you to excel in future assignments.

Dos and Don'ts

To summarize, here are some dos and don'ts for successful assignment writing:

• Start early and plan your work effectively.
• Thoroughly understand the assignment instructions.
• Utilize available campus resources for support and guidance.
• Conduct in-depth research using credible sources.
• Maintain a clear and concise writing style for accessibility.
• Seek writing assistance when facing challenges.
• Commit to thorough proofreading and editing.
• Stay safe and ethical when conducting online research.
• Celebrate your achievements and milestones.
• Procrastinate on your assignments; start early instead.
• Overlook or misinterpret assignment instructions.
• Miss out on utilizing valuable campus resources.
• Skimp on research quality or rely on unreliable sources.
• Engage in overly complex writing that hinders clarity.
• Hesitate to seek assistance when facing challenges.
• Neglect the critical steps of proofreading and editing.
• Plagiarize or compromise on academic integrity.
• Forget to acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to assignment writing:

1. How can I improve my writing style?

Improving your writing style is a gradual process. Consider taking writing courses, seeking feedback from professors or writing tutors, and practicing regularly to refine your skills.

2. Is it okay to use online sources for research?

Yes, it's acceptable to use online sources for research, but ensure that they are reliable and properly cited in your assignments to maintain academic credibility.

Final Thoughts

Writing assignments may seem challenging at times, but with the right approach and these ten tips, you can excel in your academic journey. Remember that assignment writing is a skill that improves with practice and dedication. By following these guidelines and continuously honing your writing skills, you'll be well-equipped to tackle assignments successfully and achieve academic excellence. Go to website

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Learn how planning your assignments at the start ensures a smoother writing process.

Written assignments, whether short response essays or long research papers, often seem overwhelming at first, but carefully reading and evaluating assignment guidelines and requirements will help you understand your goals and plan your paper. This can result in a more confident, optimistic approach to the assignment, and a more relaxed writing experience.

Whenever you receive an assignment, it’s important to review the requirements several times. Reading them over as soon as you receive them will help you to plan how much time you’ll need, and get a sense of the scope, or focus, of the project. If you look over them again right before you start researching or writing, they will be fresh in your mind, and you’ll use your time more effectively, since you’ll have a better idea of what tasks you need to accomplish. Finally, always reread the assignment requirements after you’ve completed your rough draft but before you’ve started revising it. This will help you make sure that you’ve fulfilled all of the requirements before you hand the work in for a grade.

The first time you read the assignment guidelines, it’s helpful to keep these types of questions in mind:

What is the assignment asking you to do?  Although most assignments require that you do many different things within them, they almost always have a main objective or purpose. This is what the paper should “do.” Look for words like argue, persuade, define, convince, compare, contrast (or compare and contrast), analyze, explain, present, summarize, report, recommend, narrate, outline, and discuss . Are you required to develop an original thesis or argument about a topic or issue? Will you be responding to another author’s book or article? Does the assignment have a question (or “prompt”) that the assignment will answer or respond to? If you can establish your primary goal, or purpose, for the assignment, it will be much easier to plan your work and manage your time.

What skills will the assignment emphasize or teach?  Assignments usually support, or require you to use, skills, tools, and/or techniques that you’re working on in your course. Will the assignment require you to use sources (books, articles, databases) that you discussed or read in class? Are there certain topics or issues that you’ve studied during the semester, and will the assignment be your opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge of or opinions about them? How does the paper assignment relate to the focus of your course?

Does the assignment require research from secondary sources?  Sometimes you’ll be using the library, online library databases, and/or the Internet to conduct research for your assignment, while other times you’ll be required to use only your own ideas or knowledge.

If the assignment requires use of secondary sources, does it specify what types of resources you should use?  If you are incorporating secondary sources, you may be required to use a certain type of source, such as an online library database. You may also be required to use a certain number of a certain type of source (a minimum of four library databases, for example). Being clear about this before you start researching will save you time later.

Are there particular parts or components that you must include?  There may be certain elements that you’re required to incorporate into your paper, such as graphics, charts, graphs, or summaries. You may also need to discuss certain points, subtopics, or questions within the paper (sometimes in a certain order).  Look for these kinds of requirements as you review the assignment guidelines.

Does the assignment need to use a particular citation style?  Sometimes your instructor will require a certain citation style. American Psychological Association (APA), Modern Language Association (MLA), Chicago, and Turabian are among the most common citation styles. If the assignment guidelines don’t specify a particular citation style, check with your instructor, so you can format the citations as you write and develop your draft.

Are there any formatting requirements?  Do you need to use a particular font, margin size, or layout? Do you need a cover page? Does the title need to be in a certain spot?

How long does the assignment need to be?  Is there a minimum or maximum length for the paper?

When is the assignment due?  Make a note of the assignment’s due date, and plan accordingly. Also check to see if there’s one date when everything is due, or if you’re required to hand in certain parts individually. Sometimes you’ll submit a thesis statement or introduction before the rest of the paper, for example.

Considering these types of questions will help you to understand your assignment requirements and develop a plan. Always check with your instructor if you are unsure about any requirements.

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How to submit an Assignment on myModules

Watch the video below on how to submit a written assignment:

  https://youtu.be/nRhY7Usx7ms  

Follow the steps below to complete an Written Assignment assessment:

• Open the Assignment  assessment.

• Complete the Take-Home assessment in MS Word or on paper. Note: MS Word documents needs to be saved as a PDF document and paper based answers needs to be scanned in to a combined PDF document.

• Note the file requirements such as:
• File size limit.
• Number of files that can be submitted.
• File formats allowed.

Watch the video below on drafts vs submission for grading:

  https://youtu.be/gd-QI1A7T0c  

Watch the video below on editing or replacing an assignment submission:

  https://youtu.be/2Av2Ng-IqEA  

Watch the video below on improving on an attempt:

  https://youtu.be/21BDprBaj2g  

Watch the video below on checking your grades and feedback:

  https://youtu.be/CeKQ_4TdPn0  

Watch the video below on the assignment submission status page:

  https://youtu.be/Y7obyBvkQAs  

Complete the  Assignment Activity  next before continuing to the next section.

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How to Write an Effective Assignment

At their base, all assignment prompts function a bit like a magnifying glass—they allow a student to isolate, focus on, inspect, and interact with some portion of your course material through a fixed lens of your choosing.

The Key Components of an Effective Assignment Prompt

All assignments, from ungraded formative response papers all the way up to a capstone assignment, should include the following components to ensure that students and teachers understand not only the learning objective of the assignment, but also the discrete steps which they will need to follow in order to complete it successfully:

• Preamble.  This situates the assignment within the context of the course, reminding students of what they have been working on in anticipation of the assignment and how that work has prepared them to succeed at it. 
• Justification and Purpose.  This explains why the particular type or genre of assignment you’ve chosen (e.g., lab report, policy memo, problem set, or personal reflection) is the best way for you and your students to measure how well they’ve met the learning objectives associated with this segment of the course.
• Mission.  This explains the assignment in broad brush strokes, giving students a general sense of the project you are setting before them. It often gives students guidance on the evidence or data they should be working with, as well as helping them imagine the audience their work should be aimed at.  
• Tasks.  This outlines what students are supposed to do at a more granular level: for example, how to start, where to look, how to ask for help, etc. If written well, this part of the assignment prompt ought to function as a kind of "process" rubric for students, helping them to decide for themselves whether they are completing the assignment successfully.
• Submission format.  This tells students, in appropriate detail, which stylistic conventions they should observe and how to submit their work. For example, should the assignment be a five-page paper written in APA format and saved as a .docx file? Should it be uploaded to the course website? Is it due by Tuesday at 5:00pm?

For illustrations of these five components in action, visit our gallery of annotated assignment prompts .

For advice about creative assignments (e.g. podcasts, film projects, visual and performing art projects, etc.), visit our  Guidance on Non-Traditional Forms of Assessment .

For specific advice on different genres of assignment, click below:

Response Papers

Problem sets, source analyses, final exams, concept maps, research papers, oral presentations, poster presentations.

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Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Understanding Writing Assignments

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

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Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

How to Decipher the Paper Assignment

Many instructors write their assignment prompts differently. By following a few steps, you can better understand the requirements for the assignment. The best way, as always, is to ask the instructor about anything confusing.

• Read the prompt the entire way through once. This gives you an overall view of what is going on.
• Underline or circle the portions that you absolutely must know. This information may include due date, research (source) requirements, page length, and format (MLA, APA, CMS).
• Underline or circle important phrases. You should know your instructor at least a little by now - what phrases do they use in class? Does he repeatedly say a specific word? If these are in the prompt, you know the instructor wants you to use them in the assignment.
• Think about how you will address the prompt. The prompt contains clues on how to write the assignment. Your instructor will often describe the ideas they want discussed either in questions, in bullet points, or in the text of the prompt. Think about each of these sentences and number them so that you can write a paragraph or section of your essay on that portion if necessary.
• Rank ideas in descending order, from most important to least important. Instructors may include more questions or talking points than you can cover in your assignment, so rank them in the order you think is more important. One area of the prompt may be more interesting to you than another.
• Ask your instructor questions if you have any.

After you are finished with these steps, ask yourself the following:

• What is the purpose of this assignment? Is my purpose to provide information without forming an argument, to construct an argument based on research, or analyze a poem and discuss its imagery?
• Who is my audience? Is my instructor my only audience? Who else might read this? Will it be posted online? What are my readers' needs and expectations?
• What resources do I need to begin work? Do I need to conduct literature (hermeneutic or historical) research, or do I need to review important literature on the topic and then conduct empirical research, such as a survey or an observation? How many sources are required?
• Who - beyond my instructor - can I contact to help me if I have questions? Do you have a writing lab or student service center that offers tutorials in writing?

(Notes on prompts made in blue )

Poster or Song Analysis: Poster or Song? Poster!

Goals : To systematically consider the rhetorical choices made in either a poster or a song. She says that all the time.

Things to Consider: ah- talking points

• how the poster addresses its audience and is affected by context I'll do this first - 1.
• general layout, use of color, contours of light and shade, etc.
• use of contrast, alignment, repetition, and proximity C.A.R.P. They say that, too. I'll do this third - 3.
• the point of view the viewer is invited to take, poses of figures in the poster, etc. any text that may be present
• possible cultural ramifications or social issues that have bearing I'll cover this second - 2.
• ethical implications
• how the poster affects us emotionally, or what mood it evokes
• the poster's implicit argument and its effectiveness said that was important in class, so I'll discuss this last - 4.
• how the song addresses its audience
• lyrics: how they rhyme, repeat, what they say
• use of music, tempo, different instruments
• possible cultural ramifications or social issues that have bearing
• emotional effects
• the implicit argument and its effectiveness

These thinking points are not a step-by-step guideline on how to write your paper; instead, they are various means through which you can approach the subject. I do expect to see at least a few of them addressed, and there are other aspects that may be pertinent to your choice that have not been included in these lists. You will want to find a central idea and base your argument around that. Additionally, you must include a copy of the poster or song that you are working with. Really important!

I will be your audience. This is a formal paper, and you should use academic conventions throughout.

Length: 4 pages Format: Typed, double-spaced, 10-12 point Times New Roman, 1 inch margins I need to remember the format stuff. I messed this up last time =(

Academic Argument Essay

5-7 pages, Times New Roman 12 pt. font, 1 inch margins.

Minimum of five cited sources: 3 must be from academic journals or books

• Design Plan due: Thurs. 10/19
• Rough Draft due: Monday 10/30
• Final Draft due: Thurs. 11/9

Remember this! I missed the deadline last time

The design plan is simply a statement of purpose, as described on pages 40-41 of the book, and an outline. The outline may be formal, as we discussed in class, or a printout of an Open Mind project. It must be a minimum of 1 page typed information, plus 1 page outline.

This project is an expansion of your opinion editorial. While you should avoid repeating any of your exact phrases from Project 2, you may reuse some of the same ideas. Your topic should be similar. You must use research to support your position, and you must also demonstrate a fairly thorough knowledge of any opposing position(s). 2 things to do - my position and the opposite.

Your essay should begin with an introduction that encapsulates your topic and indicates 1 the general trajectory of your argument. You need to have a discernable thesis that appears early in your paper. Your conclusion should restate the thesis in different words, 2 and then draw some additional meaningful analysis out of the developments of your argument. Think of this as a "so what" factor. What are some implications for the future, relating to your topic? What does all this (what you have argued) mean for society, or for the section of it to which your argument pertains? A good conclusion moves outside the topic in the paper and deals with a larger issue.

You should spend at least one paragraph acknowledging and describing the opposing position in a manner that is respectful and honestly representative of the opposition’s 3 views. The counterargument does not need to occur in a certain area, but generally begins or ends your argument. Asserting and attempting to prove each aspect of your argument’s structure should comprise the majority of your paper. Ask yourself what your argument assumes and what must be proven in order to validate your claims. Then go step-by-step, paragraph-by-paragraph, addressing each facet of your position. Most important part!

Finally, pay attention to readability . Just because this is a research paper does not mean that it has to be boring. Use examples and allow your opinion to show through word choice and tone. Proofread before you turn in the paper. Your audience is generally the academic community and specifically me, as a representative of that community. Ok, They want this to be easy to read, to contain examples I find, and they want it to be grammatically correct. I can visit the tutoring center if I get stuck, or I can email the OWL Email Tutors short questions if I have any more problems.

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How To Write an Email For Submission Of Assignment

Welcome to this informative article that will guide you on how to write an effective email for the submission of your assignment. If you’re unsure about how to draft an email for submitting your assignment, this article is here to help you!

Table of Contents

What To Do Before Writing the Email

What to include in the email.

When composing your email for assignment submission, it’s important to include the following parts:

Subject Line

Begin your email with a polite and professional greeting, such as “Dear Professor [Last Name],” or “Hi [Instructor’s Name],”. Use the appropriate salutation based on your relationship with the recipient.

Introduction

In the body of the email, mention any relevant details or specific instructions provided by your instructor. Clearly state that you are submitting your assignment and acknowledge the due date. If there are any additional comments or questions related to the assignment, include them here.

End your email with a courteous closing, such as “Thank you,” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name and contact information. This shows professionalism and makes it easy for the recipient to respond if necessary.

Email Template – Assignment Submission

Subject: Assignment Submission – [Course Name] Dear Professor/Instructor [Last Name], I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to submit my assignment for the [Course Name]. The assignment is attached in the required format. I have completed the assignment as per the given guidelines and it is ready for submission. The due date for the assignment is [Due Date]. If you have any further instructions or clarifications, please let me know. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Best regards, [Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information]

PRTH 988 Dissertation Writing in Practical Theology II

• Course Description

For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the  Academic Course Catalog .

Course Guide

View this course’s outcomes, policies, schedule, and more.*

*The information contained in our Course Guides is provided as a sample. Specific course curriculum and requirements for each course are provided by individual instructors each semester. Students should not use Course Guides to find and complete assignments, class prerequisites, or order books.

This course is the first course comprising dissertation writing for the PhD in Practical Theology candidate, under the direction and guidance of their faculty supervisor. Based on an approved prospectus, the student will compose a minimum of the first three chapters of their PhD dissertation within the PRTH 988 course. The initial stages of dissertation writing are essential for eventual success at the defense level, so intentional, regular supervision, and mentoring are critical components within the first 16 weeks of dissertation development.

Course Assignment

Textbooks readings and lecture presentations.

No details available.

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations , the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Chapter One: First Draft Assignment

The student will write and submit the first draft of chapter one of their dissertation. Special focus is on the introduction to the dissertation topic and thesis. The l ength of the first chapter will vary according to the nature of the dissertation topic but will typically be 4000 to 6000 words. A bibliography for chapter one is also required (the contents of each chapter’s bibliography will eventually be combined into the dissertation’s bibliography). (CLO: C, D)

Chapter One: Final Draft Assignment

The student will submit the final draft of chapter one of their dissertation. This draft should reflect revisions based on supervisor feedback from the first draft submission. The l ength of the first chapter will vary according to the nature of the dissertation topic but will  typically be 4000 to 6000 words. A bibliography for chapter one is also required (the contents of each chapter’s bibliography will eventually be combined into the dissertation’s bibliography). (CLO: C, E)

Chapter Two: First Draft Assignment

The student will write and submit the first draft of chapter two of their dissertation. Content should follow that proposed in the dissertation prospectus. The length of the second chapter will vary based on the nature of the subject matter but will typically be 5000 to 8000 words. A bibliography for chapter two is also required (the contents of each chapter’s bibliography will eventually build into the complete dissertation bibliography). (CLO: C, D)

Chapter Two: Final Draft Assignment

The student will submit the final draft of chapter two of their dissertation. This draft should reflect revisions based on supervisor feedback from the first draft submission. T he length of the second chapter will vary based on the nature of the subject matter but will  typically be 5000 to 8000 words.  A bibliography for chapter two is  also required (the contents of each chapter’s bibliography will eventually build into the complete  dissertation bibliography). (CLO: C, E)

Chapter Three: First Draft Assignment

The student will write and submit the first draft of chapter three of their dissertation. Content should follow that proposed in the dissertation prospectus. The length of the third chapter will vary based on the nature of the subject matter but will typically be 5000 to 8000 words. A bibliography for chapter three is also required (the contents of each chapter’s bibliography will eventually build into the complete dissertation bibliography). Note Well : Depending on dissertation design and the total number of chapters in the dissertation, this assignment may include more than chapter three of the dissertation. (CLO: C, D)

Chapter Three: Final Draft Assignment

The student will submit the final draft of chapter three of their dissertation. This draft should reflect revisions based on supervisor feedback from the first draft submission. The length of the third chapter will vary based on the nature of the subject matter but will  typically be 5000 to 8000 words.  A bibliography for chapter three  is also required (the contents of each chapter’s bibliography will eventually build into the  complete dissertation bibliography).  (CLO: C, E)

Dissertation Progress Report Assignment

The candidate will complete a Dissertation Progress Report to assess progress in dissertation composition as the candidate comes to the end of PRTH 988 and as a metric for determining whether the candidate is ready to move on to PRTH 989. (CLO: B)

Quiz: Candidate-Supervisor Consultations (8)

The PhD candidate will meet with their supervisor (either in person or virtually) to review progress and to establish expectations moving forward. This meeting will be verified through a quiz that will contain 1 true/false question and have no time limit. (CLO: A, B)

Quiz: PRTH 989 Registration

The candidate will contact his/her supervisor to request registration in PRTH 989. This will be verified through a quiz that will contain 1 true/false question and have no time limit. (CLO: B)

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