How to write an effective CIPD Assignment
When in doubt, plan it out. For starters, be prepared!
Double or triple-check the due date, the assessment criteria and the assignment document. Skim through your texts, expected readings and make notes as you go through them, so you can map out your initial impression of what is expected. Remember to plan your timelines so you have enough time to outline, research, draft and submit your assignment.
Cite as you write
Referencing and citing are an important part of writing a great assignment. Academic journals and articles give validity to your work and also are a source of new information to include in your assignment. It is always a good practice to in-text cite your source and have a reference list, even when you’re working through your rough notes. CIPD uses the Harvard system of referencing so getting familiar with it early on will only reduce your work in the later stages of your assignment.
Don’t limit yourself
You’ve turned off all the distractions and sat down with a nice and warm cup of tea to finally start your assignment but you realise that you cannot think of any ideas. Say hello to the writer’s block! Don’t be a perfectionist, just write down any and all ideas that come to your mind. Once you do this, your brain will subconsciously start connecting the dots. The more you write, the clearer your goal will get. The same idea applies to procrastination, it is natural that your brain will try to divert your attention away from something that you feel is difficult or unpleasant. Once you start, it’s much easier to get into a flow.
Bring out the academic in you
Academic papers have a different writing style than other publications. They are more formal and require critical thinking to build upon existing ideas. When looking at sources, it is best to stick to peer-reviewed journals and other academic work. Blogs and other unreferenced sources are usually not acceptable. This means that you may have to go through multiple journal articles to find just one missing piece for your masterpiece. Patience is key here, try to enjoy the learning process and absorb the material you’re reading, even if you’re not using it for your assignment.
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