Writing Center
Support for Academic Work
In our Writing Center, we support you with questions related to academic work as well as the preparation of presentations. This is not a proofreading or subject-specific advisory service, but rather support with structure, format, and approach. You have a quick question, for example regarding MS Word or a citation? In this case you can contact us via e-mail at trainerpool@h-da.de.
In our Writing Consultation, we help you in a personal setting and work on your text or notes together. We are by your side in your writing process and help you with your questions on academic writing. You can book your remote or in-person appointment via Moodle.
You can contact us, for example, if you:
- have questions about a paper or your bachelor’s/master’s thesis
- need help with finding and specifying your topic
- want to improve the structure of your text
- need support regarding citations or MS Word
- struggle with time management or Writer’s block
Academic writing includes all written assignments during your studies, such as term papers, reports, or thesis papers. The goal is to systematically examine a research question, use academic sources, and draw comprehensible conclusions based on them.
In general, an academic paper consists of three parts:
- Introduction
- Main body
- Conclusion
The specific requirements (e.g., structure, length, citation style) are determined by the respective department or instructor and should always be followed.
Structure of a scientific paper
Research Question and Aim of the Paper
In the introduction, you formulate a clear research question that defines the scope of your paper. Hypotheses are often derived from this question—that is, assumptions that are examined throughout the paper.
You also describe your approach, for example through literature research or other suitable methods.
Main Body: Arguing and Providing Evidence
In the main body, you engage with the relevant content and theoretical foundations. The goal is to develop a coherent argument that follows a logical structure and is supported by academic sources.
Important aspects include:
- a clear structure
- a consistent line of argument
- transparent reasoning for your statements
Conclusion: Interpreting the Results
In the conclusion, you summarize the key findings and relate them back to the research question. Here you can:
- interpret your results
- draw conclusions
- possibly provide an outlook for further research
Literature and Sources
Academic papers are based on suitable, verifiable sources, such as academic books or scholarly articles. Libraries and academic search engines such as Google Scholar are useful for research.
All content that is not your own must be cited correctly. This makes it clear which ideas are yours and helps you avoid plagiarism. The required citation style depends on the course guidelines.
Critically Evaluating Sources
Not every source is equally suitable. Pay attention to:
- who authored the source
- the context in which it was created
- whether it is academically sound and comprehensible
Less clear or controversial sources may also be used, but they should then be critically evaluated.
- If you have a quick question, contact us via e-mail at trainerpool@h-da.de and give us some information on where you need help. We will answer you and meet online in BBB. You will receive the access data from us.
- If you want to have a personal Writing Consultation, log into Moodle and choose an appointment. You can tell us about the topic of discussion or your questions in the booking form.
Final Note
Academic writing is a learning process. It is completely normal for questions or uncertainties to arise. What matters most is starting early, working in a structured way, and seeking support when needed.
Click here for our seminars!
All information on the topics of self, social and methodological skills, designed by students for students. to the seminars
//What? Writing Center
//Who? Studies of the h_da
//WHEN? Appointment by mail
//WHERE? Campus Darmstadt, C23 or digital
//Costs? no