What this checklist does
It turns the assignment brief into a set of clear, practical checks you can run through in 10–15 minutes. It helps you:
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match your work to the exact P/M/D criteria named in the brief
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include the right evidence type (report, presentation, poster, practical log, witness statement, etc.)
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present your work in a clean, professional way that’s easy to mark
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avoid late, messy, or poorly referenced submissions
The downloadable version is one page, print-friendly, and simple to tick off as you go.
How to use it (quick start)
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Open your brief and highlight the task, evidence type, and each criterion (e.g., P1, M2, D1).
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Map your sections to those criteria—write the code at the top of each section so an assessor can find it at a glance.
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Draft, then check, using the headings below as your pass–merit–distinction “sense check”.
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Finish the submission pack (file name, contents page, appendices, references).
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Run the final 60-second check right before you upload.
Before you start writing
Great assignments start with a plan. Spend a few minutes on these:
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Scope: Confirm the exact deliverable (e.g., 1,500-word report + slides).
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Sources: List 5–8 credible sources you’ll actually use.
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Structure: Title page → contents → introduction → main sections aligned to criteria → conclusion → references → appendices.
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Timing: Block out a drafting slot, a polishing slot, and a final check slot.
Keep your notes, sketches, or photos if the task needs practical evidence later.
Hitting Pass, Merit and Distinction
Pass means every Pass criterion is clearly met. Show you understand the topic and can apply it to the task. Keep it accurate and complete.
Merit builds on this with greater depth and consistency. Expect to compare options, explain cause and effect, and justify choices with evidence. Signpost logic and link ideas between sections.
Distinction shows insight and strong judgement. You evaluate, weigh up alternatives, and defend a reasoned conclusion. Your work reads as purposeful, consistent, and well-supported throughout, not just in the last paragraph.
Tip: label sections like “P2 explained”, “M1 analysis”, “D1 evaluation” in your draft (you can keep or lightly rephrase those labels in the final copy if your centre allows).
Evidence types (choose what the brief asks for)
BTEC tasks use different formats. Check you are giving the right type:
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Report or essay: formal writing, headings, figures, references.
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Presentation: concise slides, speaker notes, and images you have rights to use.
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Poster or leaflet: clear layout, short text, correct facts, readable at a glance.
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Observation record / witness statement: provided or completed by the tutor/supervisor; make sure yours is signed and dated.
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Logbook / practical diary: dated entries, photos (if permitted), and brief reflections tied to the criteria.
If the brief allows choice, pick the format you can execute to the highest standard within the time.
Referencing and academic honesty
Use the referencing style your centre requires (often Harvard). Cite every idea, quote, figure, or image you didn’t create. Put full references in your list and check that in-text citations match the list. Paraphrase in your own words, and add your analysis, don’t just stitch sources together. If you used AI tools for planning or proofreading, follow your centre’s policy and state this transparently if required.
Resubmissions and feedback
If your centre allows resubmission, treat feedback as a map. Identify which criteria were not fully met, add the missing evidence or analysis, and make sure your revised sections are clearly signposted. Keep a brief change log so your assessor can see exactly what you improved.
Download the checklist
Use the button on this page to get the BTEC Assignment Checklist (PDF). Print it or keep it open while you work. Tick each item as you finish a section so you don’t leave easy marks on the table.
