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A case study assignment is one of the most challenging academic tasks for students because it demands more than simple explanation. Instead of summarising information, students must analyse a real or hypothetical situation, identify core problems, and propose logical, evidence-based solutions.
Many students struggle because they are unsure about the case study assignment format, how to structure arguments, or how to apply academic frameworks correctly. This guide removes that confusion.
By the end of this post, you’ll understand:
For a foundational overview, you can also explore our detailed guide on how to write a case study.
A case study is an in-depth analysis of a real-world situation involving an organisation, individual, event, or process. Students are required to:
Unlike traditional essays, case studies demand critical thinking, decision-making, and practical reasoning.
If you’re still building your academic foundation, reviewing this assignment writing helper will help strengthen your overall structure and clarity.
Case studies are widely used in universities because they help students:
They are especially common in business, nursing, law, psychology, and management programs.
Understanding the type of case study you’re working on is essential.
Common Types of Case Studies
Following a standard case study assignment structure improves clarity and grading outcomes.
Includes student details, course name, university, and submission date, presented using a professional assignment cover page.
A concise overview of the problem, analysis, and key recommendation.
Introduces the case context and outlines the purpose of the analysis.
A strong thesis statement is essential here.
Present relevant facts only, providing essential historical context and identifying key stakeholders.
Defines the root cause rather than surface-level symptoms.
This is the most critical section. Apply frameworks such as:

To understand these analyses better, see our Apple SWOT and PESTLE analysis example.
Propose 2-3 realistic options. should be and Choose the best solution and justify it.:
Summarises findings and expected outcomes.
Use proper citation styles such as:
If you find the formatting is too complex, you can get professional assistance through our case study help services.

The Decline of Blockbuster Video vs. Netflix
In the early 2000s, Blockbuster dominated the home entertainment market with thousands of physical rental stores worldwide.
Blockbuster failed to adapt to digital streaming and relied heavily on late-fee revenue, while Netflix embraced innovation.
Blockbuster’s resistance to innovation and inability to adapt its core business model ultimately resulted in bankruptcy, while Netflix thrived through adaptability and foresight. This case serves as a critical lesson in strategic management.
For similar business-focused examples, explore our Nike SWOT & PEST analysis case study.
If you are looking for specific case study assignment examples, here are 10 realistic topics across various disciplines:
Topic: Pepsi’s Kendall Jenner Advertisement – Brand Ethics Failure
IntroductionIn 2017, Pepsi released an advertisement featuring Kendall Jenner that attempted to associate the brand with social justice movements.
Problem StatementThe ad was widely criticized for trivializing serious social issues, leading to public backlash and reputational damage.
AnalysisFrom a marketing ethics perspective, the campaign failed to respect cultural sensitivity and audience perception. Ethical branding theory emphasizes authenticity and social responsibility, both of which were lacking.
Recommended Solutions
ConclusionThe case highlights the importance of ethical decision-making in global brand communication.
Topic: Post-Operative Patient Safety Using the SBAR Framework
Introduction
Effective communication is essential in post-operative care to prevent medical errors.
Problem Statement
A breakdown in nurse–physician communication resulted in delayed intervention for a post-surgical patient.
Analysis
Using the SBAR framework (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation), the case reveals gaps in structured communication during shift handovers.
Recommended Solutions
Conclusion
SBAR significantly improves patient safety and clinical outcomes.
Effective communication is essential in post-operative care to prevent medical errors, as demonstrated in this nursing case study writing example based on the SBAR framework.
Topic: Donoghue v Stevenson – Establishing Duty of Care
Introduction
The landmark case Donoghue v Stevenson (1932) laid the foundation of modern negligence law.
Problem Statement
The legal issue concerned whether manufacturers owe a duty of care to consumers.
Analysis
Using the IRAC method, the court established the “neighbour principle,” expanding liability beyond contractual relationships.This concept is fundamental to commercial law.
Recommended Outcome
The ruling redefined legal responsibility and consumer protection standards.
Conclusion
This case remains a cornerstone of tort law worldwide.
Students seeking additional academic illustrations of negligence analysis may refer to legal case study examples that demonstrate the structured application of landmark judgments.
Topic: The Equifax Data Breach – Cybersecurity Failure
Introduction
In 2017, Equifax suffered a data breach affecting over 140 million users.
Problem Statement
Failure to patch known software vulnerabilities exposed sensitive personal data.
Analysis
Cybersecurity risk management theory highlights poor governance, delayed updates, and weak monitoring systems. This relates to crucial concepts in computer science and database management.
Recommended Solutions
Conclusion
The case demonstrates the financial and reputational risks of inadequate cybersecurity planning and highlights the need for robust IT infrastructure.
Topic: Phineas Gage – Personality Change After Brain Injury
Introduction
Phineas Gage’s accident in 1848 remains one of the most studied psychological cases.
Problem Statement
Damage to the frontal lobe resulted in drastic personality and behavioral changes.
Analysis
Neuropsychological theory links frontal lobe damage with impaired decision-making and emotional regulation. This is a key area in psychology.
Conclusion
The case established the biological basis of personality and behavior.
Topic: The 2008 Housing Market Collapse
IntroductionThe 2008 financial crisis originated from the collapse of the U.S. housing market.
Problem StatementExcessive subprime lending and poor risk assessment destabilized global financial systems.
Analysis
Using financial risk theory, the crisis reflects failures in credit evaluation, regulatory oversight, and leverage management. This is central to finance research topics and economics.
Recommended Solutions
ConclusionThe case underscores the importance of systemic risk management.
Topic: Sydney Opera House – Cost and Schedule Overruns
Introduction
The Sydney Opera House is an architectural icon but a project management failure.
Problem Statement
The project exceeded its budget by over 1,300% and faced severe delays.
Analysis
Using the Triple Constraint Model, failures occurred in scope definition, stakeholder communication, and risk planning. Effective project management is key to avoiding such issues.
Recommended Solutions
Conclusion
The case is a classic lesson in large-scale project governance.
Topic: Volkswagen Emissions Scandal – Corporate Ethics Breakdown
Introduction
Volkswagen admitted to manipulating emissions tests in diesel vehicles.
Problem Statement
The company deliberately violated environmental regulations for competitive advantage.
Analysis
Corporate ethics theory highlights failures in leadership accountability and ethical culture. This is a crucial aspect of business ethics.
Recommended Solutions
Conclusion
The scandal emphasizes the long-term cost of unethical business practices.
Topic: Tablet Implementation in Classrooms
Introduction
Many schools adopted tablets to enhance digital learning.
Problem Statement
Improper implementation led to distractions and inconsistent learning outcomes.
Analysis
Educational technology theory suggests that tools must align with pedagogy and learning objectives, not merely replace traditional methods. This is a key area in education research topics.
Recommended Solutions
Conclusion
Technology enhances learning only when strategically integrated.
Topic: Employee Burnout at Amazon
Introduction
Amazon’s fast-paced work culture has raised concerns about employee wellbeing.
Problem Statement
High performance pressure resulted in burnout and turnover.
Analysis
Using organizational behavior theory, burnout arises from workload imbalance, lack of autonomy, and insufficient work-life balance. This is a critical aspect of human resource management.
Recommended Solutions
Conclusion
Employee wellbeing is critical to long-term organizational success.
Mastering the writing process requires a systematic approach, moving from initial reading to professional evidence-based analysis.

Struggling to analyse, structure, or reference your case study assignment correctly for university submission?
An analytical academic task focused on real-world problem-solving.
Start with a strong hook that defines the primary crisis or problem facing the subject.
It depends on the rubric, but most are between 1,000 and 3,000 words. See how many pages is 2000 words for reference.
Yes, unless restricted by your university.
Most business and nursing schools use APA and Harvard, while Law usually requires OSCOLA referencing.
If you are unsure how to structure or analyse a case study assignment, professional academic support can help you produce plagiarism-free, high-quality work that meets your university’s guidelines.
Our subject-matter experts assist students worldwide with custom case study solutions, including marketing assignments and nursing case study writing examples, delivering 100% original, academically sound content tailored to individual requirements.
When deadlines are tight, professional academic writers ensure accuracy, clarity, and university-level case study analysis.
Case study assignments test more than subject knowledge—they assess your ability to analyse real-world problems, apply academic frameworks, and propose practical solutions. By understanding the correct format, using structured analytical models, and reviewing well-written case study assignment examples, students can significantly improve both clarity and grades.
Whether you are working on a business, nursing, law, or psychology case study, following a step-by-step approach ensures your arguments remain logical, evidence-based, and aligned with university expectations. With the right planning, research, and critical thinking, case study writing becomes a manageable and rewarding academic task rather than a challenge.