How to get good marks

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There is no magical formula for getting good marks. Each lecturer will look for different things, depending on the subject and the nature of the assignment. However, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of good marks.

• Read assignment titles very carefully
• Find out the conventions
• Structure your writing
• Give evidence and a few good examples
• Reference your work
• Proof-read
• Using feedback

Read assignment titles very carefully

These usually contain a question that the assignment must address. You will only get marks for answering that question. Other information just uses up your limited word allowance.

Find out the conventions

Each subject works to a set of conventions or 'rules'. These will apply to such matters as the methodology to use, what counts as 'evidence' and the style of writing to use. Spend time finding out what these are. Guidance may be given in the programme handbook or web pages. Otherwise, look at the language and style used in books you are recommended. You will have a clearer idea of what is expected if you look at material from a different subject and see the contrast. Some subjects prefer creative or subjective approaches; others prefer objective and logical thinking; some require both.

Structure your writing

Make sure that you follow the basic conventions for writing reports, essays or case studies. Ensure that readers can follow a clear line of reasoning and can see how every example and piece of information contributes to that line of reasoning.

For more advice, see writing skills and essay writing.

Give evidence and a few good examples

Avoid opinions and feelings unless these are backed up with evidence available from sources open to others (books, journals, internet, etc.). Choose good examples that illustrate the point rather than loading the reader with too much detail or too many examples.

Reference your work

Make references to source materials (books, journals, paintings, web-pages, etc) within your own work. Write a list of all references at the end of the work, following the conventions required by your programme.

For more advice, see referencing and plagiarism and the free audio download on plagiarism.

Proof-read

Proof your work for typing errors. Read it aloud to check that it makes sense. Listen carefully as you read it aloud. Check that the computer hasn't accidentally swallowed half of a sentence or some paragraphs you though were there.

Using feedback

Feedback is your main form of support from tutors. It is your best guide about what to do to improve your marks and your work more generally.

In the short term:
1. Read all feedback carefully. Avoid the temptation to throw it away if your mark was bad or if you have finished the topic.

2. Put the feedback away for a day or two and then go through it again.

3. Make sense of what is said. Work out why your tutors gave you the feedback they did. If you really don’t understand it, make an appointment to discuss it.

4. Make a list of all the good points. It is easy to miss this. People tend to focus in on the areas for improvement and negative comments and overlook the positive feedback.

5. Identify one or two main areas for improvement. Select items that will have the most impact on your marks, or which you feel strongest about.

6. Make a clear plan for how you will make use of feedback.

In the longer term
1. Keep your feedback in one folder.

2. When you have several pieces of feedback, read through them and jot down a list of the main points that are made on each.

3. Look out for recurring themes. These are things which are either gaining or losing you marks regularly.

4. Make sure you recognise your strengths so that you do not lose these.

5. Identify one or two areas for improvement. If you do not know how to address these on your own or with a study skills book, speak to your tutor or to student support staff.

For more advice, see assessments handy tips and for further information please see Chapters 4 and 8 of The Study Skills Handbook by Stella Cottrell.