Analyzing Students' Writing Difficulties and Strategies: A Case Study at Muhammadiyah University of Mataram

Abstrak

Writing is a crucial academic ability, but many students find it difficult to master because of its linguistic intricacies and mental requirements. This research adopts a descriptive qualitative method, utilizing an argumentative writing examination and semi-structured discussions to explore the writing challenges encountered by students in the English Department at Muhammadiyah University of Mataram, along with the techniques they employ to conquer these obstacles. The results of the writing test indicated that 60% of the students’ faced issues with verb tense precision, while 50% had difficulty forming complex sentences. Moreover, 75% tended to use repetitive language, and 40% chose words that were not suitable for the context. Regarding structure, 65% did not maintain a logical sequence, and 45% failed to utilize transitions appropriately. Mechanical mistakes were prevalent as well, with 70% of students committing punctuation errors and 50% exhibiting inconsistency in capitalization. Data from the interviews revealed that students engaged in brainstorming, worked with peers, and utilized technology like Grammarly to aid their writing. The results underscore the necessity for organized grammar education, the teaching of vocabulary within relevant contexts, and the strategic incorporation of technology in writing instruction. The research indicates that a thorough teaching strategy is vital for aiding students in overcoming their writing challenges and enhancing their overall proficiency in English writing