How to get good marks

Although there is no magic formula to get good marks, there are steps you should take to increase your chances.

Read questions very carefully

They contain the twists the assignment must address. You will only get high marks if you address that bit of the question. 

Find out the conventions

Each subject works to a set of conventions or 'rules' - often this is the unwritten code.  If you struggle to understand these, get model answers to see what a good one looks like (WAGOLL). Discuss these with other students and your teacher.

Structure your writing

Make sure you follow the conventions for answering questions in your subject. 

Make sure that markers can follow your reasoning and can see how each example or bit of information adds to that line of reasoning.

Give evidence and a few good examples

Avoid opinions and feelings unless these are supported with evidence.  Choose a few good examples that illustrate the point, explain this carefully.

Reference your work

Make references to source materials within your own work. List of all references at the end of the work.

Proof-read

Proof your work for typing errors - spell check and grammar check are not infallible! 

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 - they will appreciate the enterprise.

4. Make a list of all the good points.

5. Identify the one or two main areas for improvement that will have the most impact on your marks.

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.

Adapted from the Study Skills Handbook, by Stella Cottrell:  http://www.amazon.co.uk/Study-Skills-Handbook-Palgrave/dp/0230573053/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1292054289&sr=8-1