When you receive a writing assignment, study it as you would any text. What are your exact instructions, and what are the criteria for success?

Read the assignment carefully. Ask questions until you really understand the assignment’s purpose and requirements. Once you feel certain you understand the assignment, you can begin exploring the subject.

Talk through the assignment with your classmates and your instructor, too, if you have the chance.

Consider what research you need to do. Are you required to use sources? Where will your evidence—facts, details, and examples—come from? What kind of reading, observation, or research is necessary to meet the expectations of your assignment?