Leaflets - Essay checklist.rtf

TITLE: Have I answered the question adequately? - the question, the whole question and nothing but the question!

INTRODUCTION: Does the introduction concisely address the topic and indicate the direction of the argument? CONCLUSION: Does the conclusion draw together the stages of the argument and provide a convincing answer to the essay question?

STRUCTURE: Is there a clear, logical structure?

PARAGRAPHS: Does each paragraph cover only one main issue and is there a coherent connection between paragraphs?

PUNCTUATION: Is it accurate? (If unsure, try reading work aloud to check for pauses, indicating the need for commas etc.)

STYLE: Is it formal and academic? - no slang expressions, no short forms such as 'don't' or 'isn't', no sweeping statements, no emotive words etc.

SPELLING and GRAMMAR: Are they accurate? Have I made thoughtful use of the Spelling and the Grammar check facilities in Word (under Tools)?

PAGE NUMBERS? (If relevant)

WORD COUNT: Does the essay comply with the word limit?

QUOTATIONS: Are the quotations presented consistently and accurately?

REFERENCES: Are the references complete and presented consistently and accurately?

BIBLIOGRAPHY: Is the bibliography complete and presented consistently and accurately?

PLAGIARISM: Have I provided adequate references to material consulted for the essay in order to avoid plagiarism? Have I completed the necessary plagiarism declaration?

LEGIBLE? (If handwritten)

IS THIS THE BEST I CAN DO?

Remember to follow the GUIDELINES given by your own Department regarding referencing, page numbering, fonts, spacing etc.

Adapted from Hull English Dept. Handbook, 2000/2001