Academic Writing Help: Differences Between Types Of Writing

There are different types of academic writing and in order to excel at the task at hand, you should have a good idea what is needed for the assignment given. In other words, you should review the different types of writing to understand their unique purposes and how they serve as different forms of writing exercises. You may learn you can create certain types better than others, but also it can give more insight on areas of writing you should seek assistance for improvement. The following summaries are types of academic writing commonly given to students.

• Essays. A form of writing many students are introduced to that includes a basic format with an introduction, body paragraphs and conclusion. They are often one page in length and may summarize a concept, discuss a topic or present an argument. They may not always require a citation or referencing and students present ideas based on what they have learned.
• Dissertation & thesis papers. The names may be interchangeably used but the content may vary depending on field of study. These assignments are longer in length and may include multiple sections such as an abstract, table of contents, discussion, results, literary review, and appendices. This may focus on presenting a new idea or solution.
• Reports. This can vary depending on level of academics. This may include several parts similar to a thesis or dissertation, but shorter in length. An abstract, introduction, methodology and references may be included. Study fields in business or science are often required to complete a report which explores related concepts in further details. Term papers may follow a similar format but provide insight on what you have learned so far in the course.
• Research or dissertation proposal. This is a shortened version of a dissertation but you are seeking approval to do a formal study on the topic. You present how you will go about researching your topic. This is a detailed plan of what you will do based on what you know, sources you will use and how your findings will be useful.
• Case studies. You study an aspect about a problem and try to provide solution or advice on how to fix it. This includes using different methods to find suitable solutions. Focus groups, interviews, and other forms of investigation is completed with this data being organized into a written report or explanation to showcase findings. You learn more about who, what, when, where, and how in relation to the issue.