Writing in English at a university level can be challenging, especially for international students. 


Whether you're working on essays, reports, or assignments, improving your basic writing skills is essential for success at the University of Bedfordshire. 


Here’s a clear and concise guide to help you enhance your writing abilities:


1. Understand the Assignment


  • Before you begin, read the assignment brief carefully to understand what is required. Pay attention to key terms such as discuss, analyse, compare, and evaluate.


  • Clarify any doubts with your tutor to avoid misunderstandings about the task.


2. Plan Before Writing


  • Organise your ideas by outlining the structure of your writing. A clear plan helps to maintain logical flow and ensures you cover all necessary points.


  • Divide your writing into three sections:


     - Introduction: Briefly introduce your topic and outline your main points.


     - Main Body: Present your arguments, evidence, or discussion in a clear and structured way. Each paragraph should cover one idea or theme.


     - Conclusion: Summarise your key points and restate your overall argument or findings.


3. Use Simple, Clear Language


  • Avoid overly complex sentences. Use straightforward and concise language to communicate your ideas clearly.


  • Keep your sentences short. Each sentence should express one clear idea or thought.


  • Use transition words like however, therefore, in addition, and on the other hand to connect your ideas smoothly.


4. Build Your Vocabulary


  • Expanding your academic vocabulary is crucial for improving your writing. Try to learn and use new words relevant to your subject area.


  • Avoid informal language such as contractions (e.g. don’t, can’t). Instead, write them in full (e.g. do not, cannot).


5. Focus on Grammar and Sentence Structure


  • Grammar mistakes can make your writing hard to understand. Pay attention to common issues like:

     - Subject-verb agreement (e.g. He writes, not He write)


     - Correct use of tenses (past, present, future)


     - Articles (e.g. *a*, *an*, *the*)


   - If you are unsure about grammar rules, refer to online grammar tools or visit the Study Hub at the University of Bedfordshire for additional resources.


6. Cite Your Sources Correctly


   - In UK academic writing, it’s important to cite your references properly. Follow the referencing style required by your course, such as Harvard or APA.


   - Make sure to include a bibliography at the end of your work that lists all the sources you have used.


7.  Revise and Proofread


  • Always revise your first draft. Check for any unclear points, grammatical errors, or structural issues.


  • Proofread your writing for spelling mistakes and punctuation errors before submission. Tools like Grammarly can be useful, but don’t rely on them entirely.


  •    - Reading your work out loud can help you catch awkward sentences and improve flow.


8. Practice Academic Writing


  • Writing is a skill that improves with practice. 


  • Try to engage in frequent writing exercises, such as:


  1. Summarising texts
  2. Keeping a learning journal
  3. Writing short reflections on your lectures


  • Take advantage of writing workshops and resources available at the Study Hub and Careers and Employability Service to get feedback and guidance.



9. Seek Feedback


  • Ask your tutors, classmates, or academic support services to provide feedback on your writing. Constructive criticism helps you identify areas for improvement.


  • Peer review sessions are a great way to improve your writing by learning from others.


10. Use University Resources


  • The University of Bedfordshire offers many resources to support your academic writing. Explore these services:


     - Study Hub: Offers help with assignment and academic writing.


     - Library Resources: Access books, journals, and articles to support your research and writing.


     - Writing Guides: Use academic writing guides tailored to international students for additional help.



Conclusion


  • Improving your basic English writing skills is key to succeeding in your studies at the University of Bedfordshire.


  • By planning your writing, using clear language, and seeking feedback, you can enhance the quality of your assignments. 


  • Don’t hesitate to make use of the available university resources to support your learning. 


  • With practice and perseverance, your writing will improve, boosting your academic performance and confidence.


For more information and writing tips, visit the University of Bedfordshire's Study Hub