Introduction to Academic Writing: Overview

Overview of academic writing

The main task of academic writing is to refine and focus an idea through research and interrogation, then to clearly state and properly support that idea with effective argumentation and adequate evidence. Any style of writing that stands in the way of your ideas is not serving your task: to communicate. Be sure to ask for specific requirements within your discipline.

Guide contents

The tabs of this guide will support you in developing a strong foundation for your writing at university. The sections are organised as follows:

• The Six Cs - Presents a quick, helpful overview of the main qualities of effective academic writing.
• Essay Structure - Defines the primary building blocks of an academic essay, with videos to illustrate.
• Argumentation - Distinguishes between argument in academia and common usage, and conveys the importance of evidence in academic writing.