You are required to conduct a literature review1Screen reader users, this is the assignment type. on the topic you selected in Assignment 2 within the area of developmental psychology2Screen reader users, this is a content phrase. or cognitive development2Screen reader users, this is a content phrase.. Your literature review should synthesise3Screen reader users, this is an instruction word. at least 10 peer-reviewed articles published in the last ten years4Screen reader users, this is a limiting phrase., comparing3Screen reader users, this is an instruction word. and contrasting3Screen reader users, this is an instruction word. the authors’ ideas and findings.
You are expected to provide3Screen reader users, this is an instruction word. critical analysis on the topic, demonstrating3Screen reader users, this is an instruction word. critical engagement with the literature.
The review should be well-organised5Screen reader users, this is a key consideration., clearly structured5Screen reader users, this is a key consideration., and adhere3Screen reader users, this is an instruction word. to academic standards of writing and referencing5Screen reader users, this is a key consideration..
- Word Count: 1,500 words +/- 10%5Screen reader users, this is a key consideration.
- Submission Format: Word document, double spaced5Screen reader users, this is a key consideration., Times New Roman5Screen reader users, this is a key consideration., 12-point font5Screen reader users, this is a key consideration.
- Referencing Style: APA 7th edition5Screen reader users, this is a key consideration.
- Due Date: 15/5/20255Screen reader users, this is a key consideration.
Understanding your assignment
The first step to assignment success is having a clear understanding of what you are required to do. This involves identifying the type of assignment you have been given, analysing the assignment instructions and taking formatting information into account.
Common assignment types
Here's a list of some of the assignments that you may be required to complete in tertiary education. Follow the links to find more in-depth information about these assignment types:
Keep in mind that different names are sometimes used to describe the same assignment type. Sometimes, there will be variations in what is required for the assignment. If you ever have any doubts, read your assignment instructions again and consult your teacher. For example:
- essay: argumentative essay, composition
- literature review: scoping review
- academic reflection: personal reflection, reflective journal
- case study: case analysis, case report
- report: research report, analytical report
- presentation: talk, demonstration, workshop
Unpacking assignment instructions
Having a clear understanding of your assignment topic will help you to maintain focus on and meet the assignment's objectives. It will help you to stay on topic and manage your time more efficiently.
Let's explore some techniques for analysing assignment topics.
Content words and phrases:
These are the key terms in an assignment that indicate the main topics or concepts that need to be addressed. They help you focus on the specific subject matter you should explore and discuss in your response. They are typically nouns or phrases.
- an assignment in the area of environmental science may have key words such as biodiversity, renewable energy and climate change.
- assignment instructions for a psychology subject may have key words such as cognitive behavioural therapy, positive psychology and theories of personality.
- the instructions for a business report might contain the following content words: human resources, chief financial officer and strategic planning.
Instruction words and phrases:
These words guide you on how to approach the assignment by specifying the type of response required, such as "analyse," "compare," "discuss," or "evaluate." Understanding these words is crucial as they dictate the method and depth of your analysis. They are typically verbs.
- analyse
- compare
- discuss
- evaluate
- describe
- summarise
- critique
- explain
- illustrate
- justify
Limiting words and phrases:
These words narrow the scope of your assignment by setting boundaries on what you should include, such as specific time periods, locations, or populations. They help you focus your research and writing on particular aspects of the topic, ensuring your response remains relevant and concise.
- time periods: ... in the last ten years, ... in the year to date, ... in the first quarter of 2024
- locations: ... in Melbourne, ...Arkansas, ...in Indonesia, ...in developing nations
- demographics: ... students in year seven, ... men over 40 years of age, ... individuals with a heart condition, ... the unemployed
Other key information
Your assignment instructions should tell you the date that your assignment is due, the referencing style you are required to use and the word count.
On top of this, they usually list requirements about how your work should be presented, and failing to follow these instructions can lead to the loss of marks. Elements covered include:
- font size and style
- spacing
- mode of submission
- file type (e.g. Word doc, PDF, PPT, etc.)
- whether or not a cover page is required, and what should be included on it.
Sample assignment instructions
Let's unpack the following sample assignment brief from a psychology subject. The assignment type and the content, instruction and limiting words and phrases have been highlighted. Other key considerations are also highlighted.
Screen reader users, this text uses visual highlights to indicate different features of the text. Each highlight is explained for your convenience.
Making a checklist
A great way to ensure that your assignment covers all of the requirements is to create a checklist. To do this, take the information from the assignment instructions that you have identified and put it into short, concise dot points.
The checklist can be used while you are writing your assignment, and also when you are reviewing it to make sure that no important tasks have been missed.
Here's an example of a checklist that has been made from the sample assignment instruction from the previous section:
Assignment 3 checklist
- synthesise 10+ articles
- peer reviewed
- published after 2023
- compare and contrast authors' ideas
- provide critical analysis
- demonstrate engagement with literature
- clear structure
- academic writing standards
- referencing: APA 7th edition
- 1500 words
- Word doc
- Times New Roman
- 12 pt
