Writing and study resources in OWLL , Rauemi tuhituhi, rauemi ako kei OWLL

Use the resources in the Online Writing and Learning Link (OWLL) to develop your academic writing and study skills, including time management, exam preparation and referencing.

The Online Writing and Learning Link (OWLL) is Massey’s guide to academic writing and study skills. Whatever your subject or level of study, you can use the information, resources and examples in OWLL to improve your core academic skills.

Visit OWLL

Academic writing

The information on OWLL will help you develop your academic writing. You can find advice about:

  • how to write in an academic style
  • planning and researching an assignment
  • editing and proofreading your own work
  • how assignments are marked at Massey.

Get information about academic writing on OWLL

Assignment types

Get detailed guidance about tackling different types of written assignment:

  • essays
  • reports
  • business reports
  • lab reports
  • literature reviews
  • research proposals.

Read about different assignment types on OWLL

Referencing

Find instructions and examples to make sure you’re referencing properly. OWLL covers:

  • what referencing is
  • plagiarism
  • quoting and paraphrasing
  • reference styles – APA, Chicago, MLA and others
  • footnotes.

Learn to reference on OWLL

Tests and exams

Use OWLL to get prepared for tests and exams, and find strategies to help you on the day. There’s guidance on:

  • studying for tests and exams
  • types of exam question
  • organising your time in an exam.

See exam advice and tips on OWLL

Study skills

OWLL contains advice and strategies that will help you develop some important study skills:

  • time management
  • memory skills
  • taking notes
  • reading
  • critical thinking.

Find study skills strategies on OWLL

Distance study

If you’re a distance student, use OWLL to find guidance, study techniques and information about where to get support. The site covers:

  • getting started with distance study
  • how to study
  • online study techniques
  • support for distance students.

Get prepared for distance study on OWLL

Studying if English isn’t your first language

The strategies and tips on OWLL can help you deal with some common challenges of university study if English isn’t your first language.

Find advice about studying in English on OWLL

Postgraduate study

OWLL has information and resources to prepare you for postgraduate study and give you the extra skills you’ll need. It can help you with:

  • planning your postgraduate study
  • thesis planning and writing
  • finding useful resources.

See advice for postgraduates on OWLL

Sample assignments

See examples of good assignments, marked with comments that explain how the writer has approached the question.

Find sample assignments on OWLL

Technology skills

Learn to use some programmes and platforms that will be useful in your study:

  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Stream.

Improve your technology skills on OWLL

The Lighthouse blog

Keep up to date with the latest study tips and get details of workshops, events and new resources via the Lighthouse blog from our Centre for Teaching and Learning.

Find out what's new on the Lighthouse blog