Tips for Writing Assignments

Structure of the Assignment

  • The assignment has four key parts:

    • Problem Statement

    • Analysis

    • Alternatives

    • Recommendation

  • Tip: Read the prompt carefully as it specifies the title to use.

Formatting Guidelines

  • Identification Information:

    • Do not include your name or any identifying information; preferences for grading require anonymity.

  • Headings:

    • Use bold headings for each section to enhance clarity.

  • Problem Statement:

    • Should be concise, about 1-3 sentences long.

  • Analysis:

    • One paragraph, approximately one-third to one-fourth of a page; a solid paragraph is recommended without separation.

  • Alternatives:

    • 1-2 well-described paragraphs; ensure each alternative is detailed and addresses drawbacks thoroughly.

  • Recommendation:

    • 1-3 sentences summarizing your conclusion; should closely relate to the problem statement and alternatives.

Analyzing the Assignment Components

  • Problem Statement Importance:

    • Critical for identifying the issue which will be addressed. Ensure it is well-articulated.

  • Analysis Section:

    • Should not just summarize (i.e., "this happened, then that happened"); instead, interpret events and justify the problem’s importance.

    • Connect the identified problem's impact on stakeholders and justify resource allocation for resolving the issue.

  • Alternatives Description:

    • Both alternatives should comprehensively address the problem identified.

    • Pros and cons of each should be clearly outlined, diving deep into potential drawbacks rather than surface-level explanations.

    • Avoid underdeveloped alternatives that are merely a few lines long.

  • Recommendation Insight:

    • Represents a concluding judgment based on the analysis. Must reflect an understanding of both alternatives and their implications for the identified problem.

APA Formatting Standards

  • Font Size and Types:

    • Follow APA standards: primary choices include Times New Roman, Arial, and Calibri in sizes 11-12.

  • Formatting Headings in APA:

    • First Level: Bold, centered

    • Second Level: Bold, flush left

Writing Strategy for the Exam

  • Time Management:

    • Utilize the full 75 minutes effectively; don’t spend too much time on the first few lines.

    • Writing a rough version of the problem statement at first can allow flexibility in later thoughts.

  • Avoiding Blank Pages:

    • It’s acceptable to write roughly at first and refine later; don’t fixate on attaining perfection early in the writing process.

Grading Insights

  • Holistic Grading Approach:

    • While each section is individually important, problems within one area can sometimes be mitigated by strengths in another.

    • Focus on analysis and alternatives as they greatly influence overall grading.

  • Common Pitfalls to Avoid:

    • Avoid vague language or underdeveloped arguments; clarity and depth are valued.

    • Ensure alternatives provide genuine solutions—saying "it will cost money" isn't specific enough.

Example Problem Statements

  • Customer Perception Case:

    • "Customers perceive the studio as problematic owing to its history of representing minorities poorly, leading to a decline in attendance."

  • Cultural Understanding Case:

    • "Personnel at McAvoy Bakery lack cultural competency required for affluent suburban consumers, resulting in lost revenue and dissatisfied clientele."

General Guidance for Alternatives and Recommendations

  • Ensure both alternatives are well-developed and viable solutions to the problem; don’t present an obviously weak alternative.

  • Your recommendation can draw from either alternative, provided both are equally comprehensive in detail.

  • Discussing how to mitigate drawbacks in the recommendation can add depth.