‘This book offers many examples of authentic student assignments, as well as excellent activities which develop writing skills. I recommend it to students studying on their own or taking academic writing classes. Writing teachers will find this book very helpful!’ – Linh Phung, Chatham University, USA

‘Siew Hean Read provides a systematic, logical and clear guide to academic writing, with opportunities to practise the different skills. One of the most helpful features is that the practice examples are taken from different disciplines, which makes them meaningful to a range of students. I would strongly recommend the book to both students and teachers.’ – Rosalind Gallacher, University of Strathclyde, UKAre you studying, or preparing to study, in an English-medium university? If so, this user-friendly guide is for you. Featuring examples of student writing and exercises throughout, it will help you to develop your academic writing skills so that you can achieve the best possible marks.

The book begins by providing a clear overview of the essential features of good academic writing, before exploring the different types of written assignment that you are likely to encounter at university, including essays, case studies and reports. Subsequent units present a range of techniques to help you develop your writing, expand your ideas and discuss different views on a topic. The final part contains seven full-length essays, and encourages you to review the principles of effective academic writing through reflective activities.

This book will help you to

Respond effectively and appropriately to assignment questionsStructure and organise your ideas in a logical wayPresent different points of viewDevelop a coherent and convincing argument







Whatever stage of your studies you are at, this guide will support you in improving your academic writing skills so that you can tackle assignments with confidence.

SIEW HEAN READ was formerly a Language Advisor at the University of Auckland, specialising in academic writing for international students. She has had an extensive career in education, and has worked in secondary schools and universities in Malaysia, Singapore and New Zealand.