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Preparing for your first assignment

Simple steps to help you tackle your first assignment.

It won't be long before you'll be working on your first assignment. These simple steps will help you understand how to tackle it and find out more about the support on offer. 

  1. Understand the assignment and its format.
  2. Familiarise yourself with the assessment criteria. 
  3. Plan for your assignment. Make sure you ask any questions that you have. 
  4. Check out UCL Library Services resources on assignments.
  5. Understand what is meant by academic integrity.
  6. Understand how to engage AI in your education and assessments. 
  7. Gather materials and information effectively. 
  8. Draft your answer first, then refine in subsequent drafts.
  9. Develop your academic voice. 
  10. Proofread and submit your assignment, often using the TurnItIn tool. 

Understanding and using Feedback

Once you've handed in your assignment, you'll get feedback on it. Understanding and using the feedback from your assignment is just as important as doing the assignment itself. It will help you understand what you have done well and what you need to do to improve. You may also want to discuss your feedback with someone, like your personal tutor.

Planning for assessments and exams

We recommend you make a start with our Assessment Planning: a guide for UCL students. This walks you through how to plan your time for the year.

 

Looking after yourself

Assignments and exams can be stressful and intense. Make sure you pay attention to your Mental Health and Wellbeing and seek support if you need it. 

Wellbeing events

The Student Support and Wellbeing team put on a host of wellbeing events throughout the year to help you look after your wellbeing whilst at university. We recommend you take a look at 'Your Guide to Thrive' and 'Exam Season Toolkit'

Project Active

Project Active is a collaboration between UCL and the Student Union and offers UCL students a wide range of inclusive, beginner-friendly opportunities to get active.

Managing stress

Check out UCL’s advice on how to manage exam stress or use our assessment wellbeing guide, which will help you look after yourself before, during and after your exams.