Best Tips for Handwritten IGNOU Assignments
Handwritten assignments are crucial for every IGNOU student. Whether you are studying for TEE or completing course requirements, your assignment must be neat, presentable, and follow IGNOU guidelines. A well-written assignment helps you score higher marks and leaves a good impression on your evaluator.
This guide provides the best tips for handwritten IGNOU assignments, covering formatting, writing style, do’s and don’ts, and submission tips.
Why Handwritten Assignments Matter in IGNOU
IGNOU requires handwritten assignments for almost all courses. Handwritten work shows:
- Your understanding
- Effort and presentation
- Ability to summarize study material
- Authentic academic work
A clean handwritten assignment can greatly improve your assignment score.
1. Use High-Quality A4 Ruled Sheets
Always use A4-sized ruled sheets for all assignments. Avoid:
- Small notebooks
- Plain paper
- Coloured sheets
Use neat and white A4 sheets. They look professional and are easy for evaluators to read.
2. Maintain Proper Margins on Every Page
Draw:
- Left margin: 1.5 inches
- Right margin: 1 inch
- Top and bottom margins: 1 inch
Margins help evaluators add remarks and feedback.
3. Write in Clear, Neat Handwriting
Good handwriting is a significant scoring factor. Follow these rules:
- Use black or blue ball pen only
- No gel pens or sketch pens
- Maintain equal spacing
- Avoid overwriting
If you make a mistake, cross it out with a single line only.
4. Start with the Official IGNOU Assignment Cover Page
Your first page must be the IGNOU assignment cover page that includes:
- Name
- Enrolment number
- Programme code
- Course code
- Study centre code
- Session
- Mobile number
Fill this information clearly. Attach this cover page to each subject.
5. Follow the Official IGNOU Assignment Question Order
Do not change the question sequence. Write answers in the same order as given in the IGNOU assignment PDF. This helps evaluators check faster and improves your score.
6. Write Answers in Simple Language
IGNOU does not expect complicated vocabulary. Your answers should be:
- Clear
- Direct
- Based on study material
- Easy to understand
Avoid copying from the internet. Use IGNOU books and include your explanations.
7. Use Headings, Sub-Headings & Bullet Points
Structure every answer like this:
- Introduction
- Main body/explanation
- Examples/diagrams (if needed)
- Conclusion
Highlight headings with underlines, not colors.
8. Add Diagrams, Flowcharts & Examples
Diagrams improve assignments! Use:
- Flowcharts
- Tables
- Charts
- Diagrams
- Real-life examples
Draw diagrams with a pencil and ruler to keep them neat.
9. Don’t Leave Pages Blank
If a page is blank, draw a diagonal line and write “Blank” in the center. This prevents misuse of pages after submission.
10. Number All Pages
Write page numbers on the bottom right corner like this:
- Page 1
- Page 2
- Page 3
Also, write your enrolment number on each page.
11. Attach Sheets Properly
Use:
- Stapler and tape
or - Transparent thread/file clip
Do NOT:
- Use glue
- Spiral bind
- Put in plastic folders
IGNOU prefers normal A4 sheets attached together.
12. Keep Assignments Clean
Avoid:
- Stains
- Folded pages
- Smudges
- Extra colors
Clean assignments create a better impression and can lead to higher marks.
13. Write Within Word Limit
IGNOU expects 250 to 500 words for 10-mark questions. Do not write too short or excessively long.
14. Submit Before the Deadline
Always submit:
- 10 to 15 days before the deadline
- At your own study centre only
Late submissions can delay your grades.
15. Collect & Keep Your Submission Receipt
After submitting your assignment, take the stamped receipt. This is important if your assignment status does not update later.
16. Check Your Assignment Status Online
After 30 to 40 days, check your status:
🔗 Official IGNOU Assignment Status
https://isms.ignou.ac.in/changeadmdata/StatusAssignment.asp
🔗 IGNOU Grade Card
https://gradecard.ignou.ac.in/gradecard/
If your status does not update, always keep your receipt handy.
Conclusion
Handwritten IGNOU assignments are easier to score well on if you follow the right format, maintain neat presentation, and use proper writing style. Remember that details like handwriting, margins, diagrams, and structure matter in how the evaluator perceives your work.
By using these tips for your assignment, you will likely score higher and avoid common mistakes.