# Introduction

The most important aspect of your work is always the quality of your research, understanding, and thinking, but **clear presentation tends to go along with clear and intelligent thinking**. 

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While the bulk of our marking criteria focus on content, **incorrect referencing or style might land you in a lower band**. In short, it can *get in the way of your content* substantially.
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In order to do justice to your own ideas and preparation (and a mark to match), avoid plagiarism (see [Plagiarism](/language-and-linguistics-style-guide/plagiarism.md)), and present your work professionally, you need to adhere to the conventions laid out in this style guide. 

This guide is for the use of all students studying ***English Language and Linguistics modules***** in the School of English Literature, Language and Linguistics (SELLL)**, and it sets out the conventions that you must follow in presenting your written work. The main focus is on referencing and formatting, which are vital to the integrity of your writing.

Within the school, two styles are prescribed: one for work in language and linguistics (outlined in this guide), and one for work in literature. Students working across both disciplines (e.g. Language and Literature students) need to familiarise themselves with both sets of conventions, and use the style appropriate for each module. If you're unsure of which style to use for a particular assignment, check in with your module leader. 

## Using this guide

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**It's a good idea to bookmark this guide for the future** - you should expect to consult it when completing your assignments throughout your degree. 
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If you know you're looking for something specific, you can search the guide using the search icon at the top of the page. 

**You should look through the whole guide carefully especially before preparing your first assignment.** The guide is laid out in five sections:

* [**Style & Presentation:**](/language-and-linguistics-style-guide/style-and-presentation.md) How to structure your writing and clearly present ideas.
* [**Identifying and acknowledging:**](/language-and-linguistics-style-guide/identifying-and-acknowledging-sources.md) How to find valid scholarly sources, and when to acknowledge their influence in your work.
* [**Using a reference manager**:](/language-and-linguistics-style-guide/using-a-reference-manager.md) How to get started with reference management if you chose to use this.
* [**Referencing in text:**](/language-and-linguistics-style-guide/referencing-in-text.md) How to format your references in your prose, including ways to introduce authors and ideas, and when and how to use quotations.
* [**Lists of references:**](/language-and-linguistics-style-guide/lists-of-references.md) How to format the list of references at the end of your work.
* [**Plagiarism:**](/language-and-linguistics-style-guide/plagiarism.md) How to avoid academic misconduct and make sure your work is your own.


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