Large pieces of coursework can seem extremely daunting, especially when it comes to writing a dissertation or creating your final project. We’ve put together some top tips to help you stay calm and keep on track of those deadlines!

1.  Have a clear plan

Having a clear plan of what you need to do from start to finish. This helps to ensure that you don’t get behind as it is likely that you will have other deadlines or exams. It also makes sure that you don’t miss out anything that you would want to include throughout your coursework.

2.  Get friends to help

Make the most of having an extra pair of eyes to look over your coursework! It is likely that they will be able to spot errors that you haven’t yet. Also, they can help you to generate new ideas when you are feeling stuck!

3.  Don’t do it the night before

Most students will have cram session the night before in order to complete their coursework. However, this can leave you feeling even more stressed and it is likely not to be your best work. Also, it doesn’t leave room for any unforeseen circumstances which might affect your hand in!

4.  Ask tutors for help

You tutors are there to help you! If you find yourself struggling with an essay plan or not sure what your next step should be in your sketchbook then don’t be afraid to ask for help. They will be able to give you advice and guide you on what you should do.

5.  Proofread

Leaving time after finishing your coursework is key to making sure you don’t make any silly mistakes that could lose you marks. The way to do this is to step away from your work for a couple of hours, have a break or work on something else, then come back to it with a fresh mind. This makes sure you can spot errors without missing them.

6.  Research

Sometimes, before diving straight into creating your coursework, it’s best to do lots of research! This enables to make sure that you know the topic you are covering fully, leaving you feeling more confident about your work. It makes sure that there won’t be any knowledge gaps within your work, which you could get marked down for.

7.  Know how to reference

Referencing may seem hard and confusing on the outside but once you get the hang of it, it is easy to do! It is worth checking out the University’s guides to referencing here and spending the time to learn how to do it properly as it can affect your mark. Remember: different schools and subjects have different preferences as to which type of referencing you use, so double check with your tutor first.

8. Utilise the library

Researching is sometimes easier when you have the books in front of you, so make time to go to the library to take books out. Also, make the most of the online services which will allow you to access books from other libraries that Loughborough doesn’t have! Find out more about the library services here.

9. Stick to the assessment criteria

Usually, once coursework has been set lecturers will provide an assessment criteria which outlines the task you need to complete with some extra detail. Throughout completing your coursework make sure you are constantly referring back to this and make sure that you haven’t gone off task.

10.  Know the academic guidelines

Before submitting or handing in your coursework make sure that you have checked that you have met the academic guideline regulations. There are strict rules in place that touch upon plagiarism and late hand-ins so it is best to have a read before you submit! On the other hand, if a personal issue arises there is the potential to apply for mitigating circumstances or an extension. You can find the regulations here.