This document provides an overview of key functions in academic writing such as introduction, defining terms, describing, comparing and contrasting, classifying, explaining causes and effects, and developing an argument. It discusses each function in detail and provides examples of words and phrases commonly used for each. For example, when defining terms it suggests fitting the term into a category and distinguishing characteristics, and when comparing it discusses point-by-point, similarities/differences, and item-by-item comparisons. The document aims to serve as a guide for writing university assignments and research projects.