Managing Assignments and Exams

Academic Life

Articles for students and families transitioning into higher education.

Managing Assignments and Exams

  • AsIAm
  • 10/05/2021
  • 3 minutes read

Managing assignments and exams at university can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right strategies and support, it becomes much more manageable. Planning ahead, understanding what’s expected, and finding a study routine that works for you can make a big difference in staying on top of your coursework and reducing stress.

Assignments

Writing your first assignment or essay at university can feel daunting. Academic work may follow a different format than what you’re used to from school, and expectations are often higher. But with the right preparation and support, you can feel confident in tackling them.

Depending on the module, assignment formats can vary and could involve:

  • Essay or report
  • Group project
  • Individual presentation
  • Group presentation

Therefore, it’s important to understand:

  • What the assignment is asking for
  • How long it should be
  • What referencing style is expected
  • Whether it’s individual or group-based
  • How it will be graded

Use your tutorials to ask these questions. Lecturers or tutors will often go through assignment expectations before the deadline. Referencing guides or workshops are also usually available.

If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask your lecturer or tutor directly.

Planning and Writing Your Assignment

  • Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time — planning ahead helps reduce stress and avoids last-minute cramming.
  • Break it Down: Divide the assignment into smaller steps (research, planning, writing, editing). Tackle a little each day to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
  • Use a Schedule: Build a timetable that includes your classes and blocks of time to work on assignments. Identify gaps in your week where you can dedicate time to the assignment.
  • Reference as You Go: Keeping track of sources while writing saves time and avoids a last-minute rush to complete your reference list.
  • Avoid All-Nighters: While they sometimes might feel unavoidable, all-nighters can affect the quality of your work and your wellbeing. Instead, aim for steady progress. If you must stay up late, take breaks, stay hydrated, and rest as soon as possible.
  • Get Support: If you struggle with writing, contact the Academic Writing Centre or Learning Support Tutor. They can help you structure your work in a way that suits your learning style.

Exams

Preparing for exams in university may feel different from what you were used to in school. They often require more independent study and a deeper understanding of the subject. Here are some ways to manage them effectively:

  • Start Early: Give yourself at least 1–2 weeks of focused revision time, ideally after Reading Week or your last assignment.
  • Make a Study Timetable: Use a planner or a calendar app (like Google Calendar, or Outlook) to divide your time across different subjects or modules.
  • Reduce Distractions: Minimise phone use, take social media breaks, and create a quiet, organised space for studying if that helps you focus.
  • Look After Your Body and Mind:
    • Stay hydrated (aim for 2 litres of water per day)
    • Eat regular meals
    • Get enough sleep
    • Take breaks for movement or hobbies
    • Use mindfulness or relaxation techniques to manage stress
  • Mix Study and Rest: Don’t study non-stop. Make time for enjoyable activities or rewards after study sessions to help keep you motivated and to avoid burnout.
  • Practice Past Papers: If available, try past exam questions to get used to the format and test your understanding of the material.

If You Need Help

If you’re finding assignments or exams especially challenging:

  • Reach out to your Disability Support Advisor, Academic Writing Tutor, or your lecturer
  • Use available supports early – don’t wait until the deadline or the day before the exam
  • You can also ask for reasonable accommodations if needed, like extra time in exams or alternative formats

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