Plan your assignment

Having a clear plan and structure for your assignment makes writing much easier and faster. Some methods for planning are listed below.

Mind maps

Mind maps are useful if you have a lot of information, or if you haven't yet worked out a clear purpose. To create a mind map:

• write your topic in the middle of a piece of paper
  
• write each point you want to make in a new bubble linked to the question
  
• write three pieces of information in bubbles around each point – they should be examples you can use to prove that point
  
• look for similarities, differences and connections between your ideas.

Mind maps can include images, graphics or text – whatever helps get your ideas on paper. Once you see how your ideas fit together, you can use a linear plan to help put your points in a logical order.

Linear planning

Linear plans are useful when you're writing something that has a specific structure, like an essay. A linear plan describes your:

• introduction
• first point
• second point
• third point
• conclusion.

See also

Plan your essay

The writing process