Essay and Assignment Planner

Who this is for

One essay, planned from question to submission. Break down the question, budget the words by section, date each stage and check it before it goes.

University and college students starting an essay, report or written assignment who want to plan it before drafting rather than cutting it back afterwards.

What this helps you track

• What the question is actually asking, and the key terms in it
• The argument you intend to make
• Each section's main point, evidence and word budget
• Target dates for reading, drafting and proofreading
• The final checks before you submit

How to use it

1. Write the module, the due date, the word limit and the full question at the top.
2. Break the question down: underline the instruction word, list the key terms you will need to define, and write your argument in one sentence.
3. Plan the sections with a main point and sources for each, and share the word limit between them.
4. Set a target date for each stage, working back from the deadline, and tick them off as you go.
5. Record the drafted words per section as you write, then work through the submission checklist.

Formats

• Printable PDF (A4 and US Letter)
• Fillable PDF with form fields
• Fill in online, saved in your browser

The printable is laid out inside a box that fits both A4 and US Letter, so the two files are identical and neither one is scaled. The fillable PDF has real form fields. The online version keeps what you enter in your own browser and builds the completed PDF on your device.

How to print

Download the A4 or US Letter file to match the paper in your printer, open it in a PDF reader and print at 100% — not "fit to page", which shrinks the writing space. Both files leave a 14 mm margin, which clears the unprintable edge on home printers. To print the online version with your entries in it, use the Print this sheet button, which prints only the sheet and none of the page around it. More on printing.

Questions

How should I share out the word limit?

Give the most words to the sections that carry the argument, and keep the introduction and conclusion short. The planned column should add up to your word limit before you start drafting.

What is the instruction word?

The verb that tells you what to do, such as discuss, evaluate, compare or explain. Writing it down separately keeps the essay answering the question that was set.

Which referencing style should I use?

The one your department or module handbook names. The checklist reminds you to check it, but the style itself comes from your course.

Can I use this for a report or lab write-up?

Yes. Rename the sections in the outline to match the structure you have been given, such as method, results and discussion, and plan the words the same way.