Studywise / Study guides
Free study guides
Short, practical guides to help you develop your own work. They are general advice, so always follow your institution's instructions.
How to read an assignment brief
- Underline the command words (analyse, evaluate, compare, discuss) and note what each asks you to do.
- List the deliverables: word count, format, referencing style and deadline.
- Read the marking rubric and note where most marks are available.
- Break the task into stages with your own mini-deadlines.
- Ask your tutor early if anything is unclear.
Planning a dissertation
- Narrow your topic into one clear research question.
- Skim recent literature to find a gap your question can address.
- Choose a method that fits the question and is realistic for your time and access.
- Draft a chapter plan with a target word count for each part.
- Agree milestones with your supervisor and keep notes of every source as you read.
Referencing and avoiding plagiarism
- Use the style your institution requires (for example APA, Harvard or OSCOLA) and follow its current guide.
- Record full source details while you read, not afterwards.
- Put quotations in quotation marks and cite them; cite paraphrases too.
- Use reference-management software if your institution supports it.
- Always write in your own words and acknowledge permitted help.
Structuring a clear argument
- State your main argument in one sentence before you write.
- Give each paragraph one point, supported by evidence, then explain why it matters.
- Use critical analysis: compare sources, note limits and show your own judgement.
- Link paragraphs so the reader can follow your reasoning.
- Finish with a conclusion that answers the question you were set.
Need personal feedback on your own draft? Read the FAQ or request a quotation below.
Want feedback on your own work?
Include your institution, course, subject, referencing style, requested service and deadline with local time zone.
- enquiries@studywise.sg
- +65 8096 4513
- Service format
- Online guidance and consultation
What to include in your enquiry
- Country and university / institution
- Academic level and subject / module
- Curriculum and referencing style
- Service required and word count, if relevant
- Deadline with local time zone
- Assignment brief and marking rubric, where appropriate