Coursework Tips



For LLB Law Students...

1) PLAN - always, always, always plan your coursework. Write it down so that it is clear in front of you, try to organise it in an orderly manner that would flow. Also not down any points that you think would produce a strong piece of work so you don't forget them over time.


2) NO IDEA WHERE TO START? - do a bit of background reading about the topic from both books and your notes. Once you have done so, type/write out the first thing that comes into your head about the question. As soon as you start typing, all of the information that you would have forgotten will come back to you. Just write it out, forget about the plan and reorganise it later.


3) ANSWER THE QUESTION- too many people do not do this and it is a real shame, particularly when they are intelligent individuals. At the end of every argument/point that you have made, always add a sentence (or more if necessary) that relates back to the question and answer it, that way you will be consistently answering the question throughout the essay.


4) READ- Yes, it is boring, but the difference between an excellent grade and an average grade can depend on the materials that you use. Always browse through journals in order to find good opinionated articles to add into your coursework. Do not just stick to one book, expect a poor grade if you do this. Using different materials shows that you have used your initiative to research the topic in question.


5) CRITICAL ANALYSIS -  Again, the difference between an excellent grade and an average grade does depend on critical analysis. It is no good reciting the law in your essay. If there are any issues with the law, put them in! Back your points up with academic materials and opinions. It is also the same if you agree with the law, why is it a good piece of law? 


6) STRONG INTRODUCTION - when starting your coursework, always state clearly what the question/issue is and say how you are going to solve it, what are you going to explore in order to form your conclusion?


7) STRONG CONCLUSION - your conclusion should hold a strong judgement on the question, if you are passionate about it, do not hesitate to use opinionated words, providing you can back it up!


8) PROOF READ - This is one of the most fundamental parts of producing coursework. Once you have finished your essay, leave it for a few days. When you come back to your work, print it off in hard copy and read it through, mark it as if you were the teacher. ALWAYS refer to the assessment criteria of the assignment to see whether you have complied with each requirement.


9) REFERENCES - If you do not reference properly, expect a meeting with the board to discuss your plagiarism. Always refer back to your referencing guide given to you by your teachers. If you are unsure on how to reference properly, ask! It could be fatal if you do not comply with the correct rules.

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