The above posts have done a good job at trying to help you without giving you direct answers, so I won't try to add to what they say.

However, I just wanted to compliment you on being honest and straightforward with us about this being coursework. A lot of posters here try to pass it off as not being school-related, and get busted pretty quickly. By being honest and open with the monks, you will find, as in this post, that they provide you with links and insights that will help you to help yourself.