Achieving a First Class University Degree

Main Strategy: Study the Mark Scheme

• The presenter emphasizes the importance of understanding and utilizing the university's mark scheme.
• Key strategy: Open two documents for every essay: one for planning and structure, and one for the actual essay.
• Use the university's mark scheme as a guide to ensure all required points for a high grade are covered.

Essay Writing Process

1. Planning

   • Plan your essay structure in advance to avoid unnecessary content and ensure coherence.
   • Create a detailed plan that aligns with the mark scheme.

2. Paragraph Structure

   • Follow a structured paragraph format: Point, Evidence, Explain, Critical Analysis, Another Explanation, Link Back to Question.
   • Start with a Point or topic sentence.
   • Use Evidence from multiple academic sources to support the point.
   • Provide a detailed Explanation of the evidence.
   • Include Critical Analysis by discussing limitations and contrasting evidence.
   • Conclude with linking back to the question.

3. Evidence and Citation

   • Synthesize sources and collate information from academic databases such as Google Scholar.
   • Use a variety of sources for a comprehensive argument.

4. Critical Analysis

   • Significantly enhances the quality of essays.
   • Use academic phrase banks to improve critical writing skills.
   • Avoid descriptive writing; focus on questioning and evaluating evidence.

Dissertation Writing Tips

• Use a spreadsheet to organize and analyze sources, including author, date, and key arguments.
• Identify the author's intentions and biases in your research notes.
• Take advantage of your dissertation supervisor’s expertise.
• Study examiner feedback from past dissertations to understand grading criteria.
• Utilize university library resources for additional guidance on dissertation writing.

General Tips

• The focus is on working smarter, not harder, by thoroughly understanding what examiners are looking for in a top-band essay or dissertation.
• Prioritize the use of academic databases over unreliable websites for credible sources.
• The presenter also shares personal insights on time management and leveraging available university resources efficiently.

Conclusion

• The presented method emphasizes strategic planning and detailed understanding of the mark scheme as the key to achieving a first-class degree.