WORD COUNTS! Can any other subject produce an involuntary eye roll in any CIPD students as much as those two words? Over the years, the CIPD has really tightened its stance on word counts so here I aim to give you some tips on how to stay within the limit (plus or minus 10% natch!).
Firstly, a few words on why word counts are used. I think it’s mainly to prevent students submitting really long pieces of work, which then take assessors a long time to mark. The onus is therefore on you to write a submission that is succinct and focused on the task at hand.
Start with the maths
Divide the overall word count, or the one for the particular task, by the number of assessment criteria and then allocate the result to each section. For example, if you’re being asked to address seven questions (with seven criteria) in 3,500 words then each section should be around 500 words each.
Adjust according to what you are being asked to do
You can adjust the original allocation in line with the command verb (the doing word). For example, a question asking you to explain or define would potentially require less words that one asking you to discuss or critically review.
Use headings and sub-headings
Although these are included in the overall word count, using headings can help you to be efficient as they describe, in a handful or words, what a section is about, rather than using a 15-20 word sentence to do it. They also help the marker locate key content. One thing to consider is the format requested – headings are good for reports but should not be used in essays.
Be clever with visuals
There’s no word count in an image! Is there a way of visually presenting what you are saying? Including an image, in the form of a diagram or extract of a document, can be a word-count-free way of getting your point across. For example, if you want to illustrate to types of factors a PESTLE analysis identifies… or a model of change management…
Use your word count to introduce it, identifying the main features and answering the question. And don’t forget to reference!
Keep the 10% in reserve
Writing with ‘I can go over by 10%’ in your mind might lead you to go over that. Aim to stick within the original allocation and you’ll still have the 10% to use later, if you really need it.
Next time – referencing.
