Tips to Write a High-Quality Assignment: Understanding Theory, Analysis, and Structure

Quality of Presentation

• All material is thoroughly and correctly referenced.
• Citations are given in the Harvard format, unless specifically specified otherwise in the assignment brief.
• Direct quotations from sources are referenced with page numbers.
• Appropriate use has been made of tables, diagrams, graphs and pictures.
• The use of formatting (line spacing, font, justified margins etc) is consistent throughout.
• The text is clear and readable, without typographic errors and spelling mistakes.
• The assignment is within the maximum word length.
• The reference list contains only the works cited in the assignment, is presented in author alphabetical order and is complete, accurate, and consistently formatted

• Evidence of wider reading i.e. not relying on a textbook or single text source, but engaging with specialist texts,
journal articles and reports.
• Demonstrates an understanding and awareness of a range of theoretical positions.
• The ability to place a particular text’s argument within a range of positions evident in the literature and to recognise its strengths and limitations as an explanatory framework.
• Evidence of active engagement with theory and/or technique is apparent throughout the assignment.

The assignment demonstrates an ability to understand different perspectives i.e. the student can evaluate different options, engage critically with theory and practice and can justify their analysis above other available solutions or viewpoints.

• The analysis results from the use of judgement and discernment in selecting theory and applying it to the situation or problemThe selection of techniques and viewpoints are justified by the problem or issue outlined.

• Reflection and observation are integrated in the analysis in an appropriate way i.e. a supported argument illustrated with observation rather than a statement of opinion

An essay assignment will normally include an introduction, several sub-titled sections in the main body, a conclusion and a reference list. Alternative formats may be specified by the assignment brief and, if so, have been used.
• A coherent argument is evident, which clearly links the different elements of the assignment together and leads
the reader through to a justifiable conclusion.
• The argument is logically constructed with each section building on the insights of preceding sections.
• Theory is integrated into the analytical and/or practical elements of the assignment where appropriate.
• Meaning is not obscured by poor grammar, paragraph or sentence construction.

Conclusion

The conclusion relates questions posed, adequacy of the theory, empirical issues explored and reflect on the student’s approach to the work.
• The conclusions refer to the argument presented to that point and do not introduce new ideas or arguments.
• The conclusion demonstrates the ability of the student to justify their theoretical and analytical approach.
• Conclusions drawn follow, and are justified by, the analysis in the main body of the assignment. Where required, practical recommendations are feasible and follow on from the conclusions, addressing the issues identified

There are two questions and you must answer both questions.

Calculate the Capital Gains Overhang for Stocks A & B using the price and volume information provided below (workings out must be shown). Assume that the reference point is the purchase price. Using your calculations, advise if an investor should purchase stock A or B? Your workings and answer to this question can be either typed, or handwritten.  

Question 2 Weight 70%

Cognitive biases and heuristics can be an impediment to sound investments. At the same time, the knowledge about systematic investor mistakes can help strategists to identify anomalies in the market and act upon them. Critically discuss how the knowledge of investor biases and heuristics can be used to successfully invest money and provide some examples. 

• Your answer should not exceed 1,500 words.
• You should consider the concepts you were introduced to across the MN3138 module and focus on market anomalies, heuristics, and overconfidence in financial decision-making.
• Please be structured and precise in your answers. Choose 2-3 concepts and explain which investment ideas can be drawn from them. For example, you might want to discuss behavioural aspects of value investing, momentum investing etc. Try to keep the general remarks (e.g., on what Behavioural Finance is) to the minimum.
• There is plenty of information online concerning examples of innovative investment organisations that exploit insights from Behavioural Finance; you can draw upon these materials in your analysis. You will receive additional marks for discussing practical
examples.
• You must address the question asked and not try to re-define it. Not answering the question will result in a significant loss of marks.
• Your own thinking and evaluation should be apparent in the discussion of the topic.
• It is expected that you will consult academic and professional journals (next to textbooks). Journals provide you with the newest insights and ideas from the field.
• The answer must be correctly referenced. You might want to choose the Harvard citation style (http://www.citethisforme.com/harvard-referencing).
• Answer for question 2 must be typed, so that it can be  checked for plagiarism. Hand-written answers for question 2 will receive a mark of zero.