Beginning University Thinking, researching and writing for success

Get good marks for your essays and assignments!

Learn to think and write clearly!

Find the information you need easily!

Do you want to make the most of your time at university? Beginning University shows you how to develop the skills you need in order to succeed at university and later on.

Step by step, the authors explain how to think critically, create an argument and present your ideas well both in writing and in oral presentations. They show you how to read effectively and take good notes, and how to plan your work. They also look at how to get the most out of your lectures and tutorials, and give you handy research tips. Questions and activities at the end of each chapter help you practise what you have learnt.

Beginning University provides a head start to studying at university and can be used by students in any subject. Don't wait till it's too late!

Introduction: how this book can help you

Part I Contexts

1 Communication in context

2 All about universities

3 Learning at university level

Part II Fundamentals

4 Critical thinking

5 Dealing with ideas: argument

6 Dealing with ideas: exposition

PART III Learning Strategies

7 Effective reading

8 In and out of class

PART IV Assignments

9 Academic genres

10 Planning

11 Research: finding resources

12 Research: using resources

13 Writing well: the basics

14 Improving your written style

15 Effective oral presentations

PART V Transitions

16 Take it with you