Getting a first in your university assessments might be a rare achievement or something that you haven’t been able to accomplish yet. Getting 70+ can be difficult if you don’t know how, and often universities don’t give much insight on how to do this. Follow our top tips and you will be achieving firsts in no time.
Do the Reading
The number one thing that all students love to avoid is the required reading. We push it aside and only bring it out when we need to reference something in an essay. Doing the required reading all year round will help you to understand the content further and this will definitely show in your work. If you have time, do the recommended reading as well as the essential reading. Showing an understanding of, and referencing, these texts in your work will show your tutors that you have gone above and beyond.
Attend Everything in Person
As tempting as it can be to skip the 9am and watch the recording, get yourself out of bed and head to your lectures. In person, don’t take any notes and use the time to listen and understand the content. Then when you arrive home, watch the recording back and take notes. Doing this will allow you time to absorb the content without distractions in person, while having plenty of time to write good notes after the session.
Follow the Marking Criteria
Assessment marking criteria will spell out exactly what your lecturer is looking for in a first class piece. Be sure to read and understand it before starting your work so you know exactly what needs to be done. Check it against your writing as you go to ensure that you are following the requirements.
Read your Feedback
Take a look at your previous work and see what your lecturers have suggested that you work on next time. Often this will be small things such as using more references or critically analysing your points. Following this advice will be sure to bump your grade up to a first.
Speak to your Lecturers
If you are doing everything you can and still aren’t achieving a first, set up a meeting with your personal tutor. Explain to them what you have been doing and show them examples of your work. They may be able to offer more insight into what you can do to increase your grades and give you further feedback and suggestions. It will show that you are passionate about doing well and succeeding in your course.