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Glossary

Useful terms relating to academic writing

An A – Z of academic terminology.

confusedAnalyse

To study in detail.

Argument

A reason or reasons why someone/you hold a certain opinion.

Bibliography

A list of the resources you have consulted in your research.

Conclusion

The last one or two paragraphs summarising all the main points in your essay.

Criticise

To make a judgement based upon a fair consideration.

Draft

A first attempt at your essay, before it has been checked and edited.

Edit

To cut out any parts that are not relevant.

Evidence

Other research that has been done to prove or disprove an argument.

Example

A specific example that you can use to illustrate the point you are making.

Hypothesis

A statement or quote which you need to comment on.

Introduction

The opening paragraph of your essay where you introduce the main points you are going to talk about.

Paragraph

Make up the main body of your essay. Each paragraph will link to the question and introduce a new point/argument.

Point

The overall message/conclusion that you are trying to get across.

Proof read

To read your essay carefully and ensure it flows, is clear, concise, precise and has good spelling, punctuation and grammar.

Reference

Publishing details about the source you have used.

Reference list

List of all the references you have used in your essay.

Signposting

Means by which you indicate what you are going to be writing about.

Viewpoint

Your or another academic’s view about an argument or piece of evidence.