The word count of each element in your EPQ essay has an impact on your productivity and focus, too. Generally, the shorter the piece of writing you have to do, the more productive you’ll be. Setting yourself short-term goals like this will help you stay focused and make your EPQ that little bit better.
What is included in the word count? Word count includes everything in the main body of the text (including headings, tables, citations, quotes, lists, etc). The list of references, appendices and footnotes2 are NOT included in the word count unless it is clearly stated in the coursework instructions that the module is an exception to this rule.
Do not simply re-tell the story (for literary essays) or present a narrative account with no analysis of historical events; Do not quote from literary texts trivially, say to give details of the plot, where your own words will do. Never write something in the hope that the tutor will be able to sort it all out.
Use quotations to support an idea rather than to just put them here and there within your essay just to fill space or word count. Make sure it links to your own writing and become seamless. Quote credible people within the field of study to offer a convincing argument. Keep quotations as succinct as possible.
The dissertation word limit is allotted by the university where you study and the Masters Dissertation word count may vary from undergraduate dissertation word count or the PhD dissertation word count. Mostly the dissertation word length is between 10,000 words to 15,000 words but some may even go up to the level of 30,000 words.
Formatting your essay When you submit your essay (assignment) for marking, there is a set format you must follow. There may be some small differences in format that your own lecturer may request of you, so make sure that you read and follow the instructions in your subject learning guides carefully.
Short essays have the same components and long papers. Include your introspection without presenting many points. It’s better to have a few strong and well-articulated ideas than many good arguments that you can’t support within a given word count. Look at a sample below. A great short essay sample.