Hello!

It has got to that time of year when essays are looming for us, so we thought we would write about how to deal with deadlines.

So..

In first year, each term you will have one essay per module that you take. Initially it is quite daunting as you have to really get to grips with time management as well as learning how to reference properly.

Once you have decided on your essay question (you are usually able to pick form a few) it is really good to meet with your tutor to go through your plan and to discuss how to write it in the best way. Tutors will always be happy to help you or to go through things with you, although they cannot read through your essay or tell you what exactly it is you should write – they will guide you in the right direction and you won’t feel completely in the dark.

When it comes to essays the first port of call tends to be the library. Your tutor will provide you with a reading list with useful books and they usually are really helpful so make sure you use them. The library initially seems a bit weird as it has a referencing system which, at first sight, doesn’t really make sense. However, after a while you really do get used to it and when you know what floor / section your modules books will be on you won’t have any trouble finding them.

Referencing is so important. Your tutors will go on and on about it but you have to make sure that you do it and do it properly, otherwise you will get penalised. It can’t be denied that it is tedious but as long as you make sure to reference as you go along, and not leave it until the last minute (a mistake we have both made) it will be much easier to do. Before starting university, you may hear  lot of talk about how difficult referencing is, particularly the Harvard style. However, referencing is actually fairly simple once you get used to it and if you do struggle with a particular style, there are others to choose from. Most tutors will agree that as long as you are consistent, you can choose whichever style suits you best.

Once you have written your essay and filled out the cover form (essays are handed in anonymously) you have to deposit your essay in a rather ominous looking postbox. It is really satisfying once you hand it in, and the fact that you can’t get it back once it’s gone means that you stop thinking about it. Just make sure you put it in the right box! You also have to upload the essay electronically onto the Department’s page. It is so important that you do this as well as handing in the hard copy because otherwise your essay won’t get marked!

Essays can be a drag and they make those last few weeks before the Christmas holidays extra slow, but you have to do them so you might as well try your best, put the time in and work really hard for the last few weeks and then your time off will feel even more deserved.

Saying this however, it is important to take breaks! Don’t stay up all night, every night, barely getting any sleep- trust us, it won’t be worth it. Essay writing is all about a good balance of work and rest. Your flatmates will likely be in the same position so you’ll all be able to help each other in maintaining this balance and then you can all celebrate well after.

They really are not as awful as they initially seem, just try your best and manage your time well and you will get the results you hope for / deserve.

Becky and Katie x