A practical, easy-to-read guide that aims to help undergraduate students cope with the demands of English and Creative Writing degrees.

Written by lecturers and industry professionals with decades of experience in writing and higher education, this book also includes hints and tips from previous students. Find out what your tutors are looking for when marking your work, how to avoid common pitfalls, what the difference between clear and creative writing is, how to organise and behave on your work placement, and how to structure and research that all-important first assignment.

This guide demystifies academic language and marking processes so that you can make the most of your degree.

Sarah Dobbs received an MA and PhD in Creative Writing from Lancaster University and has also taught at the Open University and Manchester University. Her novel, ‘Killing Daniel’, was published by Unthank Books in 2012 and nominated for the Guardian’s Not the Booker prize in 2013.

Val Jessop received her PhD in Linguistics from Lancaster University and is currently a full-time lecturer in English Language with many years’ experience in teaching undergraduates. She is also the programme leader for the BA in English Language and Literary Studies.

Devon Campbell-Hall completed her MA and PhD in English at the University of Winchester and now serves as a lecturer and course leader for Southampton Solent University’s English degrees. She is passionate about teaching literature and widening participation in higher education.

Terry McDonough lectures in English Language at University Centre Blackburn College, having previously taught at several other UK institutions. He recently completed a two-year research project for the Higher Education Academy aimed at establishing links between academia and local community groups.

Cath Nichols has an MA and PhD in Creative Writing from Lancaster University and has published poetry including ‘Tales of Boy Nancy’ (Driftwood, 2005) and ‘Distance’ (erbacce, 2012). Her ‘Birdie’ was shortlisted for the International Playwriting Student Award.

Introduction; Part I. English Language; 1. English Language Year One; 2. English Language Year Two; 3. English Language Year Three; Bibliography; Part II. English Literature; 4. English Literature Year One; 5. English Literature Year Two; 6. English Literature Year Three; Bibliography; Part III. Creative Writing; 7. Creative Writing Year One; 8. Creative Writing Year Two; 9. Creative Writing Year Three; Conclusion; Index