In this third instalment of our four-part dissertation mini series, Aimee Merrydew and expert guest Dr Riadh Ghemmour explore why understanding your dissertation’s marking criteria is one of the smartest moves you can make early in the research process. 

Drawing on Riadh’s experience as a supervisor and examiner, they break down what markers are really looking for and how you can meet those expectations in your work.

🎯 What’s in it for you? By the end of this episode, you should be able to:

✅ Describe the core components of your dissertation marking criteria.
✅ Explain how to engage critically with literature and to justify your methodological choices.
✅ Identify common pitfalls flagged in dissertation feedback, including vague research questions, weak argumentation, and inconsistent structure.
✅ Apply practical strategies to demonstrate clarity, consistency, and originality in your work.

📢 Want to know what markers are really looking for?

This episode gives you the inside scoop on how to meet—and exceed—assessment expectations. Tune in now to learn how to decode the criteria, avoid common mistakes, and set yourself up for dissertation success from the very start 🎧✨

Read the transcript on our Study Matters Podcast webpage: https://www.keele.ac.uk/library/libraryeducationcentre/guides/studymatters/

Episode 20: Understanding the Marking Criteria for Dissertations

Are you a student and want to learn how to improve your academic skills, learn more effectively, and succeed in your studies? 

Are you an educator and looking for academic skills resources to share with students to help them reach their full potential? 

We've got you covered 🙌 

Study Matters is a practical podcast about academic skills and why they matter for student success in higher education.

Each episode, Aimee Merrydew interviews an educator about an area of academic practice in which students typically struggle, from reading to writing and all things in-between. 

🪄 Whatever the topic, our goal is to address common academic challenges by sharing strategies that help you to develop your academic skills, build confidence, and find joy in your learning at university.

Study Matters is brought to you by Aimee Merrydew in the Campus Library at Keele University.

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