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US to UK

How different are the writing expections and conventions coming from the US to a UK university? I have a fairly strong writing ability when it comes to the US academic system, but I don't quite know where I would stand in the UK system. Of course, all universities and professors are a little different, but a broad overview would be helpful!

I'm currently looking at a Masters from QMUL in English Literature if that matters/helps at all. Thank you!
Original post by Daa258
How different are the writing expections and conventions coming from the US to a UK university? I have a fairly strong writing ability when it comes to the US academic system, but I don't quite know where I would stand in the UK system. Of course, all universities and professors are a little different, but a broad overview would be helpful!
I'm currently looking at a Masters from QMUL in English Literature if that matters/helps at all. Thank you!

Hello!
Coventry University student ambassador here!

I am an international student, and I've struggled a bit with the UK writing system at the beginning, it tends to be more formal and have specific rules, especially when it comes to university report/essay writing. I'll share what I've learned while studying here, and hopefully it gives you a bit of an insight into what you should be paying attention once you start studying here!

Essay writing if often more flexible with structure, focusing on a clear argument and logical flow. Essays can be longer and more detailed. However, generally for both reports and essays, a more formal and objective style is required. Try to especially avoid first-person pronouns unless explicitly permitted (usually if they aren't permitted or not mentioned at all, the paper must be written in an objective style).
Additionally, focus on critical analysis and developing a nuanced argument. Emphasis on weighing different perspectives and demonstrating depth of thought is highly regarded, and the concept of critical analysis is always reinforced. A reference list is required, and it is critical to adhere strictly to the specific formatting guidelines provided by the university (I've had classmates who have had points deducted for this, despite their papers being really good).

Emphasis is put on engaging critically with sources, questioning their validity, and comparing different viewpoints. Usually schools focus on providing supportive arguments for analysed papers, but in the UK you learn to consider every academic paper with skepticism (contrasting 2 papers is deemed to be a form of critical analysis and noting why you think one is more accurate than another).

There are also the basic spelling rules, try to use the British English spelling system (e.g., "colour," "analyse" instead of "color", "analyze"). This however depends on the strictness of the professor grading your paper, so be vigilant about who prefers what, as the UK usually has stricter adherence to traditional grammar and punctuation rules.

Hope this helps!

Kind Regards,
Bianca
Reply 2
Original post by Coventry University Student Ambassadors
Hello!
Coventry University student ambassador here!
I am an international student, and I've struggled a bit with the UK writing system at the beginning, it tends to be more formal and have specific rules, especially when it comes to university report/essay writing. I'll share what I've learned while studying here, and hopefully it gives you a bit of an insight into what you should be paying attention once you start studying here!
Essay writing if often more flexible with structure, focusing on a clear argument and logical flow. Essays can be longer and more detailed. However, generally for both reports and essays, a more formal and objective style is required. Try to especially avoid first-person pronouns unless explicitly permitted (usually if they aren't permitted or not mentioned at all, the paper must be written in an objective style).
Additionally, focus on critical analysis and developing a nuanced argument. Emphasis on weighing different perspectives and demonstrating depth of thought is highly regarded, and the concept of critical analysis is always reinforced. A reference list is required, and it is critical to adhere strictly to the specific formatting guidelines provided by the university (I've had classmates who have had points deducted for this, despite their papers being really good).
Emphasis is put on engaging critically with sources, questioning their validity, and comparing different viewpoints. Usually schools focus on providing supportive arguments for analysed papers, but in the UK you learn to consider every academic paper with skepticism (contrasting 2 papers is deemed to be a form of critical analysis and noting why you think one is more accurate than another).
There are also the basic spelling rules, try to use the British English spelling system (e.g., "colour," "analyse" instead of "color", "analyze"). This however depends on the strictness of the professor grading your paper, so be vigilant about who prefers what, as the UK usually has stricter adherence to traditional grammar and punctuation rules.
Hope this helps!
Kind Regards,
Bianca


This is incredibly helpful and really comprehensive. Thank you so much!
Original post by Daa258
This is incredibly helpful and really comprehensive. Thank you so much!

You're very welcome! I'm glad I could assist you with this. :smile:

Kind Regards,
Bianca

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