The Online Writing and Learning Link (OWLL) is Massey’s guide to academic writing and study skills. Whatever your subject or level of study, you can use the information, resources and examples in OWLL to improve your core academic skills.
Academic writing
The information on OWLL will help you develop your academic writing. You can find advice about:
- how to write in an academic style
- planning and researching an assignment
- editing and proofreading your own work
- how assignments are marked at Massey.
Get information about academic writing on OWLL
Assignment types
Get detailed guidance about tackling different types of written assignment:
- essays
- reports
- business reports
- lab reports
- literature reviews
- research proposals.
Read about different assignment types on OWLL
Referencing
Find instructions and examples to make sure you’re referencing properly. OWLL covers:
- what referencing is
- plagiarism
- quoting and paraphrasing
- reference styles – APA, Chicago, MLA and others
- footnotes.
Tests and exams
Use OWLL to get prepared for tests and exams, and find strategies to help you on the day. There’s guidance on:
- studying for tests and exams
- types of exam question
- organising your time in an exam.
See exam advice and tips on OWLL
Study skills
OWLL contains advice and strategies that will help you develop some important study skills:
- time management
- memory skills
- taking notes
- reading
- critical thinking.
Find study skills strategies on OWLL
Distance study
If you’re a distance student, use OWLL to find guidance, study techniques and information about where to get support. The site covers:
- getting started with distance study
- how to study
- online study techniques
- support for distance students.
Get prepared for distance study on OWLL
Studying if English isn’t your first language
The strategies and tips on OWLL can help you deal with some common challenges of university study if English isn’t your first language.
Find advice about studying in English on OWLL
Postgraduate study
OWLL has information and resources to prepare you for postgraduate study and give you the extra skills you’ll need. It can help you with:
- planning your postgraduate study
- thesis planning and writing
- finding useful resources.
See advice for postgraduates on OWLL
Sample assignments
See examples of good assignments, marked with comments that explain how the writer has approached the question.
Find sample assignments on OWLL
Technology skills
Learn to use some programmes and platforms that will be useful in your study:
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Stream.
Improve your technology skills on OWLL
The Lighthouse blog
Keep up to date with the latest study tips and get details of workshops, events and new resources via the Lighthouse blog from our Centre for Learner Success.