Rise and shine, it's assessment time!

By Dani Brown

Public Relations / Psychology student at Lilydale

I woke up on the final day of the mid-semester break in an amazing state of tranquillity.  As I gradually eased into this amazing day I figured it was probably about time to see when my next major assignment was due.  Carefully I removed the artefacts of my social life that had been strategically balanced on top of my unit guides, and flipped to the assessment page… “2 WEEKS!!!”  

This, my friends, was the end of the calm before the storm.

So let’s get up and get on with some of these assessment tasks. We’ll examine how to both prepare for them and get them done.

PREPARATION

Like any storm, those who have taken time to prepare seem to come out better off.

Preparation starts with simply knowing what assignments are due and when. Map out the dates that your assignments are due and know exactly what time you have to work on them. Literally look forward into the next couple of weeks and block out time in your diary specifically for these assignments (and social time to keep sane!).

Work smarter, not harder. Think outside the square and carefully consider all the resources that you have around you. Utilise your tutors and lecturers to clarify what the assignment is asking of you. Think about the people you know that are either in your unit or have done the unit in the past. Ask them for some tips, direction and information sources.

DO NOT PLAGIARISE!  If you are unfamiliar with the rules of plagiarism than use this as a reminder that it is your responsibility to know the rules and avoid it.

Take advantage of all the resources that the University environment offers you and use them to your advantage.

For example, did you know that the library website can automate the reference details for the resources you use? In many cases you can even have the references generated for you in different referencing styles. I know right! So how do you learn to do this sort of stuff?? Try the library workshops!

GETTING IT DONE

Let’s take this process step by step and try to break up your study.

Try breaking it down into manageable bite sized chunks and also think about possible changes in scenery when you study.  Allocate your time to have PLENTY of breaks and try switching venues every couple of study sessions. One night study in the library, on another occasion stay home or maybe even try a café. Obviously it’s what works best for you but maybe try mixing it up a bit to make the experience a little bit more enjoyable.

Finally, make sure your assignments are proof read and referenced correctly. This doesn’t sound like rocket science but people tend to neglect this part of their assignment because they’re pushing it for time. The marker of your assignment will immediately begin to question the level of your work if they can instantly see that you haven’t referenced or proof read correctly. There are plenty of on campus student services to help you to increase you academic skills. This includes proof reading services, so use them!

CELEBRATE!

WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS

Make an appointment with an SSAA Academic Advisor and Student Advocate:

TIPS AND BITS

Motivational References:

Coelho, P 1993, The Alchemist, HarperCollins, New York, USA.