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How To Write A Dissertation Or Thesis
8 Straightforward Steps + Examples
By: Derek Jansen (MBA) Expert Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2020
How To Write A Dissertation: 8 Steps
- Clearly understand what a dissertation (or thesis) is
- Find a unique and valuable research topic
- Craft a convincing research proposal
- Write up a strong introduction chapter
- Review the existing literature and compile a literature review
- Design a rigorous research strategy and undertake your own research
- Present the findings of your research
- Draw a conclusion and discuss the implications
Step 1: Understand exactly what a dissertation is
This probably sounds like a no-brainer, but all too often, students come to us for help with their research and the underlying issue is that they donât fully understand what a dissertation (or thesis) actually is.
So, what is a dissertation?
At its simplest, a dissertation or thesis is a formal piece of research , reflecting the standard research process . But what is the standard research process, you ask? The research process involves 4 key steps:
- Ask a very specific, well-articulated question (s) (your research topic)
- See what other researchers have said about it (if theyâve already answered it)
- If they havenât answered it adequately, undertake your own data collection and analysis in a scientifically rigorous fashion
- Answer your original question(s), based on your analysis findings
In short, the research process is simply about asking and answering questions in a systematic fashion . This probably sounds pretty obvious, but people often think theyâve done âresearchâ, when in fact what they have done is:
- Started with a vague, poorly articulated question
- Not taken the time to see what research has already been done regarding the question
- Collected data and opinions that support their gut and undertaken a flimsy analysis
- Drawn a shaky conclusion, based on that analysis
If you want to see the perfect example of this in action, look out for the next Facebook post where someone claims theyâve done âresearchâ⌠All too often, people consider reading a few blog posts to constitute research. Its no surprise then that what they end up with is an opinion piece, not research. Okay, okay â Iâll climb off my soapbox now.
The key takeaway here is that a dissertation (or thesis) is a formal piece of research, reflecting the research process. Itâs not an opinion piece , nor a place to push your agenda or try to convince someone of your position. Writing a good dissertation involves asking a question and taking a systematic, rigorous approach to answering it.
If you understand this and are comfortable leaving your opinions or preconceived ideas at the door, youâre already off to a good start!
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Step 2: Find a unique, valuable research topic
As we saw, the first step of the research process is to ask a specific, well-articulated question. In other words, you need to find a research topic that asks a specific question or set of questions (these are called research questions ). Sounds easy enough, right? All youâve got to do is identify a question or two and youâve got a winning research topic. Well, not quiteâŚ
A good dissertation or thesis topic has a few important attributes. Specifically, a solid research topic should be:
Letâs take a closer look at these:
Attribute #1: Clear
Your research topic needs to be crystal clear about what youâre planning to research, what you want to know, and within what context. There shouldnât be any ambiguity or vagueness about what youâll research.
Hereâs an example of a clearly articulated research topic:
An analysis of consumer-based factors influencing organisational trust in British low-cost online equity brokerage firms.
As you can see in the example, its crystal clear what will be analysed (factors impacting organisational trust), amongst who (consumers) and in what context (British low-cost equity brokerage firms, based online).
Need a helping hand?
Attribute #2: Â Unique
Your research should be asking a question(s) that hasnât been asked before, or that hasnât been asked in a specific context (for example, in a specific country or industry).
For example, sticking organisational trust topic above, itâs quite likely that organisational trust factors in the UK have been investigated before, but the context (online low-cost equity brokerages) could make this research unique. Therefore, the context makes this research original.
One caveat when using context as the basis for originality – you need to have a good reason to suspect that your findings in this context might be different from the existing research â otherwise, thereâs no reason to warrant researching it.
Attribute #3: Important
Simply asking a unique or original question is not enough â the question needs to create value. In other words, successfully answering your research questions should provide some value to the field of research or the industry. You canât research something just to satisfy your curiosity. It needs to make some form of contribution either to research or industry.
For example, researching the factors influencing consumer trust would create value by enabling businesses to tailor their operations and marketing to leverage factors that promote trust. In other words, it would have a clear benefit to industry.
So, how do you go about finding a unique and valuable research topic? We explain that in detail in this video post â How To Find A Research Topic . Yeah, weâve got you covered đ
Step 3: Write a convincing research proposal
Once youâve pinned down a high-quality research topic, the next step is to convince your university to let you research it. No matter how awesome you think your topic is, it still needs to get the rubber stamp before you can move forward with your research. The research proposal is the tool youâll use for this job.
So, whatâs in a research proposal?
The main âjobâ of a research proposal is to convince your university, advisor or committee that your research topic is worthy of approval. But convince them of what? Well, this varies from university to university, but generally, they want to see that:
- You have a clearly articulated, unique and important topic (this might sound familiarâŚ)
- Youâve done some initial reading of the existing literature relevant to your topic (i.e. a literature review)
- You have a provisional plan in terms of how you will collect data and analyse it (i.e. a methodology)
At the proposal stage, it’s (generally) not expected that youâve extensively reviewed the existing literature , but you will need to show that youâve done enough reading to identify a clear gap for original (unique) research. Similarly, they generally donât expect that you have a rock-solid research methodology mapped out, but you should have an idea of whether youâll be undertaking qualitative or quantitative analysis , and how youâll collect your data (weâll discuss this in more detail later).
Long story short – donât stress about having every detail of your research meticulously thought out at the proposal stage â this will develop as you progress through your research. However, you do need to show that youâve âdone your homeworkâ and that your research is worthy of approval .
So, how do you go about crafting a high-quality, convincing proposal? We cover that in detail in this video post â How To Write A Top-Class Research Proposal . We’ve also got a video walkthrough of two proposal examples here .
Step 4: Craft a strong introduction chapter
Once your proposalâs been approved, its time to get writing your actual dissertation or thesis! The good news is that if you put the time into crafting a high-quality proposal, youâve already got a head start on your first three chapters â introduction, literature review and methodology – as you can use your proposal as the basis for these.
Handy sidenote – our free dissertation & thesis template is a great way to speed up your dissertation writing journey.
Whatâs the introduction chapter all about?
The purpose of the introduction chapter is to set the scene for your research (dare I say, to introduce itâŚ) so that the reader understands what youâll be researching and why itâs important. In other words, it covers the same ground as the research proposal in that it justifies your research topic.
What goes into the introduction chapter?
This can vary slightly between universities and degrees, but generally, the introduction chapter will include the following:
- A brief background to the study, explaining the overall area of research
- A problem statement , explaining what the problem is with the current state of research (in other words, where the knowledge gap exists)
- Your research questions â in other words, the specific questions your study will seek to answer (based on the knowledge gap)
- The significance of your study â in other words, why itâs important and how its findings will be useful in the world
As you can see, this all about explaining the âwhatâ and the âwhyâ of your research (as opposed to the âhowâ). So, your introduction chapter is basically the salesman of your study, âsellingâ your research to the first-time reader and (hopefully) getting them interested to read more.
Step 5: Undertake an in-depth literature review
As I mentioned earlier, youâll need to do some initial review of the literature in Steps 2 and 3 to find your research gap and craft a convincing research proposal â but thatâs just scratching the surface. Once you reach the literature review stage of your dissertation or thesis, you need to dig a lot deeper into the existing research and write up a comprehensive literature review chapter.
Whatâs the literature review all about?
There are two main stages in the literature review process:
Literature Review Step 1: Reading up
The first stage is for you to deep dive into the existing literature (journal articles, textbook chapters, industry reports, etc) to gain an in-depth understanding of the current state of research regarding your topic. While you donât need to read every single article, you do need to ensure that you cover all literature that is related to your core research questions, and create a comprehensive catalogue of that literature , which youâll use in the next step.
Reading and digesting all the relevant literature is a time consuming and intellectually demanding process. Many students underestimate just how much work goes into this step, so make sure that you allocate a good amount of time for this when planning out your research. Thankfully, there are ways to fast track the process â be sure to check out this article covering how to read journal articles quickly .
Literature Review Step 2: Writing up
Once youâve worked through the literature and digested it all, youâll need to write up your literature review chapter. Many students make the mistake of thinking that the literature review chapter is simply a summary of what other researchers have said. While this is partly true, a literature review is much more than just a summary. To pull off a good literature review chapter, youâll need to achieve at least 3 things:
- You need to synthesise the existing research , not just summarise it. In other words, you need to show how different pieces of theory fit together, whatâs agreed on by researchers, whatâs not.
- You need to highlight a research gap that your research is going to fill. In other words, youâve got to outline the problem so that your research topic can provide a solution.
- You need to use the existing research to inform your methodology and approach to your own research design. For example, you might use questions or Likert scales from previous studies in your your own survey design .
As you can see, a good literature review is more than just a summary of the published research. Itâs the foundation on which your own research is built, so it deserves a lot of love and attention. Take the time to craft a comprehensive literature review with a suitable structure .
But, how do I actually write the literature review chapter, you ask? We cover that in detail in this video post .
Step 6: Carry out your own research
Once youâve completed your literature review and have a sound understanding of the existing research, its time to develop your own research (finally!). Youâll design this research specifically so that you can find the answers to your unique research question.
There are two steps here â designing your research strategy and executing on it:
1 â Design your research strategy
The first step is to design your research strategy and craft a methodology chapter . I wonât get into the technicalities of the methodology chapter here, but in simple terms, this chapter is about explaining the âhowâ of your research. If you recall, the introduction and literature review chapters discussed the âwhatâ and the âwhyâ, so it makes sense that the next point to cover is the âhowâ âthatâs what the methodology chapter is all about.
In this section, youâll need to make firm decisions about your research design. This includes things like:
- Your research philosophy (e.g. positivism or interpretivism )
- Your overall methodology (e.g. qualitative , quantitative or mixed methods)
- Your data collection strategy (e.g. interviews , focus groups, surveys)
- Your data analysis strategy (e.g. content analysis , correlation analysis, regression)
If these words have got your head spinning, donât worry! Weâll explain these in plain language in other posts. Itâs not essential that you understand the intricacies of research design (yet!). The key takeaway here is that youâll need to make decisions about how youâll design your own research, and youâll need to describe (and justify) your decisions in your methodology chapter.
2 â Execute: Collect and analyse your data
Once youâve worked out your research design, youâll put it into action and start collecting your data. This might mean undertaking interviews, hosting an online survey or any other data collection method. Data collection can take quite a bit of time (especially if you host in-person interviews), so be sure to factor sufficient time into your project plan for this. Oftentimes, things donât go 100% to plan (for example, you donât get as many survey responses as you hoped for), so bake a little extra time into your budget here.
Once youâve collected your data, youâll need to do some data preparation before you can sink your teeth into the analysis. For example:
- If you carry out interviews or focus groups, youâll need to transcribe your audio data to text (i.e. a Word document).
- If you collect quantitative survey data, youâll need to clean up your data and get it into the right format for whichever analysis software you use (for example, SPSS, R or STATA).
Once youâve completed your data prep, youâll undertake your analysis, using the techniques that you described in your methodology. Depending on what you find in your analysis, you might also do some additional forms of analysis that you hadnât planned for. For example, you might see something in the data that raises new questions or that requires clarification with further analysis.
The type(s) of analysis that youâll use depend entirely on the nature of your research and your research questions. For example:
- If your research if exploratory in nature, youâll often use qualitative analysis techniques .
- If your research is confirmatory in nature, youâll often use quantitative analysis techniques
- If your research involves a mix of both, you might use a mixed methods approach
Again, if these words have got your head spinning, donât worry! Weâll explain these concepts and techniques in other posts. The key takeaway is simply that thereâs no âone size fits allâ for research design and methodology â it all depends on your topic, your research questions and your data. So, donât be surprised if your study colleagues take a completely different approach to yours.
Step 7: Present your findings
Once youâve completed your analysis, itâs time to present your findings (finally!). In a dissertation or thesis, youâll typically present your findings in two chapters – the results chapter and the discussion chapter .
Whatâs the difference between the results chapter and the discussion chapter?
While these two chapters are similar, the results chapter generally just presents the processed data neatly and clearly without interpretation, while the discussion chapter explains the story the data are telling – in other words, it provides your interpretation of the results.
For example, if you were researching the factors that influence consumer trust, you might have used a quantitative approach to identify the relationship between potential factors (e.g. perceived integrity and competence of the organisation) and consumer trust. In this case:
- Your results chapter would just present the results of the statistical tests. For example, correlation results or differences between groups. In other words, the processed numbers.
- Your discussion chapter would explain what the numbers mean in relation to your research question(s). For example, Factor 1 has a weak relationship with consumer trust, while Factor 2 has a strong relationship.
Depending on the university and degree, these two chapters (results and discussion) are sometimes merged into one , so be sure to check with your institution what their preference is. Regardless of the chapter structure, this section is about presenting the findings of your research in a clear, easy to understand fashion.
Importantly, your discussion here needs to link back to your research questions (which you outlined in the introduction or literature review chapter). In other words, it needs to answer the key questions you asked (or at least attempt to answer them).
For example, if we look at the sample research topic:
In this case, the discussion section would clearly outline which factors seem to have a noteworthy influence on organisational trust. By doing so, they are answering the overarching question and fulfilling the purpose of the research .
Step 8: The Final Step Draw a conclusion and discuss the implications
Last but not least, youâll need to wrap up your research with the conclusion chapter . In this chapter, youâll bring your research full circle by highlighting the key findings of your study and explaining what the implications of these findings are.
What exactly are key findings? The key findings are those findings which directly relate to your original research questions and overall research objectives (which you discussed in your introduction chapter). The implications, on the other hand, explain what your findings mean for industry, or for research in your area.
Sticking with the consumer trust topic example, the conclusion might look something like this:
Key findings
This study set out to identify which factors influence consumer-based trust in British low-cost online equity brokerage firms. The results suggest that the following factors have a large impact on consumer trust:
While the following factors have a very limited impact on consumer trust:
Notably, within the 25-30 age groups, Factors E had a noticeably larger impact, which may be explained byâŚ
Implications
The findings having noteworthy implications for British low-cost online equity brokers. Specifically:
The large impact of Factors X and Y implies that brokers need to considerâŚ.
The limited impact of Factor E implies that brokers need toâŚ
As you can see, the conclusion chapter is basically explaining the âwhatâ (what your study found) and the âso what?â (what the findings mean for the industry or research). This brings the study full circle and closes off the document.
Letâs recap â how to write a dissertation or thesis
Youâre still with me? Impressive! I know that this post was a long one, but hopefully youâve learnt a thing or two about how to write a dissertation or thesis, and are now better equipped to start your own research.
To recap, the 8 steps to writing a quality dissertation (or thesis) are as follows:
- Understand what a dissertation (or thesis) is â a research project that follows the research process.
- Find a unique (original) and important research topic
- Craft a convincing dissertation or thesis research proposal
- Write a clear, compelling introduction chapter
- Undertake a thorough review of the existing research and write up a literature review
- Undertake your own research
- Present and interpret your findings
Once you’ve wrapped up the core chapters, all that’s typically left is the abstract , reference list and appendices. As always, be sure to check with your university if they have any additional requirements in terms of structure or content.
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21 Comments
thankfull >>>this is very useful
Thank you, it was really helpful
unquestionably, this amazing simplified way of teaching. Really , I couldn’t find in the literature words that fully explicit my great thanks to you. However, I could only say thanks a-lot.
Great to hear that – thanks for the feedback. Good luck writing your dissertation/thesis.
This is the most comprehensive explanation of how to write a dissertation. Many thanks for sharing it free of charge.
Very rich presentation. Thank you
Thanks Derek Jansen|GRADCOACH, I find it very useful guide to arrange my activities and proceed to research!
Thank you so much for such a marvelous teaching .I am so convinced that am going to write a comprehensive and a distinct masters dissertation
It is an amazing comprehensive explanation
This was straightforward. Thank you!
I can say that your explanations are simple and enlightening – understanding what you have done here is easy for me. Could you write more about the different types of research methods specific to the three methodologies: quan, qual and MM. I look forward to interacting with this website more in the future.
Thanks for the feedback and suggestions đ
Hello, your write ups is quite educative. However, l have challenges in going about my research questions which is below; *Building the enablers of organisational growth through effective governance and purposeful leadership.*
Very educating.
Just listening to the name of the dissertation makes the student nervous. As writing a top-quality dissertation is a difficult task as it is a lengthy topic, requires a lot of research and understanding and is usually around 10,000 to 15000 words. Sometimes due to studies, unbalanced workload or lack of research and writing skill students look for dissertation submission from professional writers.
Thank you đđ very much. I was confused but your comprehensive explanation has cleared my doubts of ever presenting a good thesis. Thank you.
thank you so much, that was so useful
Hi. Where is the excel spread sheet ark?
could you please help me look at your thesis paper to enable me to do the portion that has to do with the specification
my topic is “the impact of domestic revenue mobilization.
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How to Write a Dissertation: Step-by-Step Guide
- Doctoral students write and defend dissertations to earn their degrees.
- Most dissertations range from 100-300 pages, depending on the field.
- Taking a step-by-step approach can help students write their dissertations.
Whether youâre considering a doctoral program or you recently passed your comprehensive exams, youâve probably wondered how to write a dissertation. Researching, writing, and defending a dissertation represents a major step in earning a doctorate.
But what is a dissertation exactly? A dissertation is an original work of scholarship that contributes to the field. Doctoral candidates often spend 1-3 years working on their dissertations. And many dissertations top 200 or more pages.
Starting the process on the right foot can help you complete a successful dissertation. Breaking down the process into steps may also make it easier to finish your dissertation.
How to Write a Dissertation in 12 Steps
A dissertation demonstrates mastery in a subject. But how do you write a dissertation? Here are 12 steps to successfully complete a dissertation.
Choose a Topic
It sounds like an easy step, but choosing a topic will play an enormous role in the success of your dissertation. In some fields, your dissertation advisor will recommend a topic. In other fields, youâll develop a topic on your own.
Read recent work in your field to identify areas for additional scholarship. Look for holes in the literature or questions that remain unanswered.
After coming up with a few areas for research or questions, carefully consider whatâs feasible with your resources. Talk to your faculty advisor about your ideas and incorporate their feedback.
Conduct Preliminary Research
Before starting a dissertation, youâll need to conduct research. Depending on your field, that might mean visiting archives, reviewing scholarly literature , or running lab tests.
Use your preliminary research to hone your question and topic. Take lots of notes, particularly on areas where you can expand your research.
Read Secondary Literature
A dissertation demonstrates your mastery of the field. That means youâll need to read a large amount of scholarship on your topic. Dissertations typically include a literature review section or chapter.
Create a list of books, articles, and other scholarly works early in the process, and continue to add to your list. Refer to the works cited to identify key literature. And take detailed notes to make the writing process easier.
Write a Research Proposal
In most doctoral programs, youâll need to write and defend a research proposal before starting your dissertation.
The length and format of your proposal depend on your field. In many fields, the proposal will run 10-20 pages and include a detailed discussion of the research topic, methodology, and secondary literature.
Your faculty advisor will provide valuable feedback on turning your proposal into a dissertation.
Research, Research, Research
Doctoral dissertations make an original contribution to the field, and your research will be the basis of that contribution.
The form your research takes will depend on your academic discipline. In computer science, you might analyze a complex dataset to understand machine learning. In English, you might read the unpublished papers of a poet or author. In psychology, you might design a study to test stress responses. And in education, you might create surveys to measure student experiences.
Work closely with your faculty advisor as you conduct research. Your advisor can often point you toward useful resources or recommend areas for further exploration.
Look for Dissertation Examples
Writing a dissertation can feel overwhelming. Most graduate students have written seminar papers or a masterâs thesis. But a dissertation is essentially like writing a book.
Looking at examples of dissertations can help you set realistic expectations and understand what your discipline wants in a successful dissertation. Ask your advisor if the department has recent dissertation examples. Or use a resource like ProQuest Dissertations to find examples.
Doctoral candidates read a lot of monographs and articles, but they often do not read dissertations. Reading polished scholarly work, particularly critical scholarship in your field, can give you an unrealistic standard for writing a dissertation.
Write Your Body Chapters
By the time you sit down to write your dissertation, youâve already accomplished a great deal. Youâve chosen a topic, defended your proposal, and conducted research. Now itâs time to organize your work into chapters.
As with research, the format of your dissertation depends on your field. Your department will likely provide dissertation guidelines to structure your work. In many disciplines, dissertations include chapters on the literature review, methodology, and results. In other disciplines, each chapter functions like an article that builds to your overall argument.
Start with the chapter you feel most confident in writing. Expand on the literature review in your proposal to provide an overview of the field. Describe your research process and analyze the results.
Meet With Your Advisor
Throughout the dissertation process, you should meet regularly with your advisor. As you write chapters, send them to your advisor for feedback. Your advisor can help identify issues and suggest ways to strengthen your dissertation.
Staying in close communication with your advisor will also boost your confidence for your dissertation defense. Consider sharing material with other members of your committee as well.
Write Your Introduction and Conclusion
It seems counterintuitive, but itâs a good idea to write your introduction and conclusion last . Your introduction should describe the scope of your project and your intervention in the field.
Many doctoral candidates find it useful to return to their dissertation proposal to write the introduction. If your project evolved significantly, you will need to reframe the introduction. Make sure you provide background information to set the scene for your dissertation. And preview your methodology, research aims, and results.
The conclusion is often the shortest section. In your conclusion, sum up what youâve demonstrated, and explain how your dissertation contributes to the field.
Edit Your Draft
Youâve completed a draft of your dissertation. Now, itâs time to edit that draft.
For some doctoral candidates, the editing process can feel more challenging than researching or writing the dissertation. Most dissertations run a minimum of 100-200 pages , with some hitting 300 pages or more.
When editing your dissertation, break it down chapter by chapter. Go beyond grammar and spelling to make sure you communicate clearly and efficiently. Identify repetitive areas and shore up weaknesses in your argument.
Incorporate Feedback
Writing a dissertation can feel very isolating. Youâre focused on one topic for months or years, and youâre often working alone. But feedback will strengthen your dissertation.
You will receive feedback as you write your dissertation, both from your advisor and other committee members. In many departments, doctoral candidates also participate in peer review groups to provide feedback.
Outside readers will note confusing sections and recommend changes. Make sure you incorporate the feedback throughout the writing and editing process.
Defend Your Dissertation
Congratulations â you made it to the dissertation defense! Typically, your advisor will not let you schedule the defense unless they believe you will pass. So consider the defense a culmination of your dissertation process rather than a high-stakes examination.
The format of your defense depends on the department. In some fields, youâll present your research. In other fields, the defense will consist of an in-depth discussion with your committee.
Walk into your defense with confidence. Youâre now an expert in your topic. Answer questions concisely and address any weaknesses in your study. Once you pass the defense, youâll earn your doctorate.
Writing a dissertation isnât easy â only around 55,000 students earned a Ph.D. in 2020, according to the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics. However, it is possible to successfully complete a dissertation by breaking down the process into smaller steps.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dissertations
What is a dissertation.
A dissertation is a substantial research project that contributes to your field of study. Graduate students write a dissertation to earn their doctorate.
The format and content of a dissertation vary widely depending on the academic discipline. Doctoral candidates work closely with their faculty advisor to complete and defend the dissertation, a process that typically takes 1-3 years.
How long is a dissertation?
The length of a dissertation varies by field. Harvardâs graduate school says most dissertations fall between 100-300 pages .
Doctoral candidate Marcus Beck analyzed the length of University of Minnesota dissertations by discipline and found that history produces the longest dissertations, with an average of nearly 300 pages, while mathematics produces the shortest dissertations at just under 100 pages.
Whatâs the difference between a dissertation vs. a thesis?
Dissertations and theses demonstrate academic mastery at different levels. In U.S. graduate education, masterâs students typically write theses, while doctoral students write dissertations. The terms are reversed in the British system.
In the U.S., a dissertation is longer, more in-depth, and based on more research than a thesis. Doctoral candidates write a dissertation as the culminating research project of their degree. Undergraduates and masterâs students may write shorter theses as part of their programs.
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Learning Materials
Comprehensive guide on how to make dissertation effectively.
Updated: October 03, 2024
Embarking on the journey to craft a dissertation can seem daunting, yet it's a pivotal step in your academic career. Many students struggle with where to begin, how to organise their research, and the pressure to contribute something original to their field. A dissertation requires choosing a relevant topic, conducting thorough research, crafting a compelling proposal, structuring the dissertation effectively, and presenting your findings clearly. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of making an effective dissertation, from selecting the right topic to defending your work before a committee.
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Choosing the right topic for your dissertation.
Choosing the right topic for your dissertation is crucial because it sets the direction of your entire project. A well-chosen topic ensures that you remain engaged and motivated throughout the research process. It should be unique enough to allow for original research and findings, yet broad enough to find adequate resources and data. It's a delicate balance between interest and practicality, ensuring the topic is manageable and can sustain a thorough investigation.
When selecting a topic, consider the scope and relevance of the subject to your field. The topic should contribute to the academic community, addressing unanswered questions or offering a new perspective on familiar issues. Ensure it aligns with available resources, such as access to data, literature, and your own background knowledge. Consulting with advisors and peers can provide valuable feedback and help refine your focus, making the topic not only fascinating but also feasible.
Crafting a Compelling Research Proposal
Crafting a compelling research proposal is a fundamental step in your dissertation process. It acts as a blueprint for your research and provides a clear outline of your project. The proposal should start with a strong introduction that hooks the reader by presenting the research question and its significance. It's essential to articulate the purpose of your research, what you aim to achieve, and why it matters. This section should clearly state the research problem and provide enough background to understand the context and necessity of your study.
The body of the proposal should detail the methodology, outlining how you plan to conduct your research. This includes the research design, data collection methods, and analysis techniques. Be sure to address:
- Ethical considerations : ensuring the research is conducted responsibly,
- Budget requirements : estimating the financial aspects of the project,
- Timelines : providing a realistic schedule for project milestones.
Conclude with the potential impact of your research, highlighting how it will contribute to existing knowledge and its practical applications. This comprehensive structure not only demonstrates your preparedness but also the feasibility and academic value of your proposed research.
Understanding the Structure of a Dissertation
Understanding the structure of a dissertation is crucial for any student embarking on this significant academic endeavor. A typical dissertation is divided into several key sections: the introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and conclusion. Each section serves a specific purpose, contributing to the overall coherence and argument of the dissertation. This structured approach not only helps in organizing the content but also in guiding the reader through the research journey.
The introduction sets the stage by presenting the research question and its significance. The literature review follows, summarizing existing research and highlighting gaps that the dissertation aims to fill. The methodology section describes the research design and methods used for data collection and analysis. Results are then presented, often with the aid of tables and figures, to illustrate the findings. Finally, the conclusion synthesizes these findings, discusses their implications, and may suggest areas for further research.
Writing an Engaging Introduction
Writing an engaging introduction for your dissertation is pivotal as it sets the tone for the entire document. It should clearly state the research problem, outline the objectives, and explain the significance of the research. Starting with a compelling hook, such as a surprising statistic or a relevant anecdote, can grab the reader's attention and pique their interest in your study.
The introduction should also provide a brief overview of the structure of the dissertation, guiding the reader on what to expect in the subsequent sections. Itâs crucial to:
- Define key terms and concepts,
- Lay out the research questions or hypotheses, and
- Briefly mention the methodology. This approach not only engages but also informs the reader, setting a clear path for the exploration ahead.
Conducting a Thorough Literature Review
Conducting a thorough literature review is a foundational step in any dissertation. It involves extensive research to gather existing knowledge related to your topic. Start by identifying relevant databases and scholarly sources. Then, systematically review these sources to understand major themes, debates, and gaps in the research. This process helps in framing your research question and situating your study within the broader academic conversation.
Your literature review should:
- Critically analyze the literature for strengths and weaknesses,
- Organize the literature around key themes or theoretical frameworks, and
- Highlight areas needing further investigation. This critical evaluation not only underscores the relevance of your research but also demonstrates your scholarly rigor and depth of understanding.
Crafting a Conclusive Dissertation Ending
Crafting a conclusive dissertation ending is essential as it leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Your conclusion should succinctly summarize the key findings of your research and their implications. Reflect on the research questions and discuss how your findings have contributed to the existing knowledge. This section should tie back to the introduction, creating a coherent narrative arc that reinforces the significance of your study.
Moreover, a strong conclusion should:
- Propose recommendations for future research,
- Discuss the limitations of the study, and
- Suggest practical applications of the findings if applicable. By providing a clear and concise closure, you not only enhance the impact of your dissertation but also encourage further scholarly exploration and debate in your research area.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Dissertation
Writing a dissertation is a structured process that begins with a clear plan and ends with thorough revision. Initially, create a timeline that outlines each stage of your dissertation, from research to writing to submission. This timeline should include specific milestones like completing the literature review, finishing each chapter, and allocating time for feedback from your supervisor. Planning ahead ensures that you manage your time effectively and meet all the deadlines without last-minute stress.
Once your plan is in place, start drafting your dissertation, focusing on one section at a time. This makes the task less daunting and allows for deeper focus on each part. As you write, keep in mind the following key points:
- Maintain a clear structure that aligns with your initial outline.
- Write clearly and concisely , avoiding overly complex language.
- Stay focused on your research question to ensure that all content is relevant. After completing your draft, revise your work critically, enhancing arguments, and refining the clarity of your writing. This step is crucial to polish your dissertation and prepare it for the final submission.
Conducting Effective Research for Your Dissertation
Conducting effective research is the cornerstone of any successful dissertation. It involves a systematic approach to gathering and analyzing data to address your research questions comprehensively. Whether you choose qualitative methods like interviews and observations or quantitative techniques such as surveys and statistical analysis, the key is to align your methods with the objectives of your study. This ensures that the data collected is relevant and robust, providing a solid foundation for your dissertation.
When selecting your research methods, consider the nature of your research question and the resources available to you. For instance, qualitative methods can offer in-depth insights into complex issues, while quantitative methods are excellent for testing hypotheses and identifying patterns in large data sets. Here are some points to consider:
- Availability of resources : Ensure you have the necessary tools and technology.
- Relevance to research questions : Choose methods that best address your specific questions.
- Ethical considerations : Always conduct your research ethically and responsibly.
Presenting Your Research Findings
Presenting your research findings effectively is crucial in communicating the value of your work clearly and persuasively. Start with a well-structured presentation that includes an introduction, where you outline the research questions and objectives; the body, where you detail your methodology and present your data and analysis; and a conclusion, where you summarize your findings and discuss their implications. Utilizing visual aids such as charts, graphs, and tables can help in making complex data more understandable and engaging.
Use clear and concise language to ensure that your audience can easily follow your arguments and conclusions. Here are some tips to enhance the clarity of your presentation:
- Avoid jargon : Use simple language or explain complex terms when necessary.
- Keep sentences short : This makes the content easier to digest.
- Highlight key points : Use bullet points or bold text to draw attention to important data. This approach not only keeps your audience engaged but also reinforces the impact of your research findings.
Editing and Polishing Your Dissertation
Editing and polishing your dissertation are crucial steps to ensure your work is clear, coherent, and academically rigorous. Start by revising the structure and flow of your document to enhance readability and logical progression. Make sure each section transitions smoothly into the next, and that your arguments build upon one another effectively. This structural integrity is essential for maintaining the reader's engagement and understanding.
Next, focus on refining the language and style of your dissertation. This includes:
- Eliminating jargon and simplifying complex language to improve clarity.
- Correcting grammatical errors and ensuring consistency in tense and perspective.
- Enhancing the overall readability by varying sentence structure and length. These linguistic adjustments not only polish your dissertation but also significantly improve its professional appearance, making it ready for submission.
Preparing to Defend Your Dissertation
Preparing to defend your dissertation is an integral part of your academic journey. It involves presenting your research findings to a committee who will critically evaluate your work. To start, ensure you understand the expectations of the committee and prepare to address any potential questions they might have about your research methodology or conclusions.
During the defense, it's crucial to communicate clearly and confidently . Practice your presentation multiple times in front of peers or mentors to gain feedback and build confidence. Here are some key points to consider:
- Anticipate questions from the committee and prepare thoughtful, concise responses.
- Highlight the significance of your findings and how they contribute to the field.
- Ensure all technical terms are explained, and your presentation is logically structured to facilitate understanding.
Learning from Dissertation Examples
Exploring successful dissertation examples can provide invaluable insights into structuring and presenting your work effectively. For instance, the University of Leeds offers a repository where high-scoring dissertations are available, showcasing various research methodologies and writing styles. By studying these examples, you can:
- Understand how to effectively structure your argument,
- See practical applications of theoretical concepts,
- Learn the importance of a clear and concise presentation.
Each example serves as a blueprint for what makes a dissertation stand out in terms of content and presentation. Notably, dissertations that score highly often feature:
- A strong, clear thesis statement,
- Well-organized chapters that flow logically,
- Rigorous analysis supported by robust evidence. Reviewing these elements can help you enhance the academic rigor and readability of your own dissertation, ensuring it makes a significant impact.
Enhance Your Dissertation with Samwell.ai's Advanced Tools
Samwell.ai offers AI-powered writing assistance that can significantly enhance your dissertation process. This tool aids in structuring your arguments, ensuring that your writing is clear, coherent, and academically rigorous. With features like auto-suggestions for sentence improvement and contextual vocabulary enhancements , it helps maintain a high standard of academic writing, which is crucial for a successful dissertation.
Moreover, Samwell.ai ensures the originality of your work with advanced plagiarism checks . This feature is essential for maintaining academic integrity, a core aspect of any dissertation. Additionally, the platform provides access to authentic sources and integrates these seamlessly with in-text citations, allowing you to enrich your research with credible and relevant information, all formatted correctly for academic use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you start a dissertation.
Starting a dissertation involves selecting a relevant and engaging topic, crafting a compelling research proposal, and conducting a thorough literature review. The initial step is to choose a topic that balances originality with the availability of resources and aligns with your interests and academic goals. Following this, a detailed research proposal should be formulated, outlining the research questions, significance, and methodology planned for the study. This proposal acts as a blueprint for the entire dissertation process.
What is the format of a dissertation?
The format of a dissertation typically includes several key sections: an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and conclusion. Each section serves a specific purpose, contributing to the overall coherence and argument of the dissertation. The introduction presents the research question and its significance, the literature review summarises existing research, the methodology explains the research design and methods, results are presented and discussed, and the conclusion synthesises these findings and discusses their implications.
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Dissertation writing issues and how to cope with them
Dissertation is without any doubts a challenging task. It requires thorough planning, deep research, constant reading and analyzing, checking and rechecking. No way you can finish it overnight. Hopefully, you're not belonging to these kind of students who spend their times for parties and then suddenly find themselves in front of a PC typing "how to write a dissertation quickly".
Even planning everything in advance and devoting significant amount of your time to the task, a person might face complications dissertation writing. What can it be? Let's see 4 most popular obstacles that make students look for extra help.
#1. Amount of information to process. Dissertation is far more complicated task than paper or essay, it requires dozens of books to be read, hundreds of articles to be studied, and of course, such flood of information can be difficult to process.
#2. Wrong format of dissertation. It's probably your very first dissertation but the requirements are already high. Your professor demands nothing but a perfect work, and you start to feel more frustrated every day because... you simply don't know how to put everything in a correct and proper format. Don't hesitate to ask for dissertation writing help to shape your thoughts and conclusions according to the standards.
#3. Wrong choice of a problem. Sometimes in the middle of the work, after spending too much time for your dissertation, you might find out that it's not what you have to do. The most important part of any writing is to ask yourself multiple questions. That's how you decide the problem of your paper and stat looking for correct answers.
#4. Not asking for help. If there's still some pride in you that tells you to do everything yourself, be sure to expect a nervous breakdown. Dozens of services with proficient experts and trained specialist were made for assistance in such cases. All you need to do is to choose the most suitable one.
Tips for choosing dissertation help
Before you open Google and will look for help, there are some recommendations we want to give you.
- Dissertation help is 100% legal. It's not copying someone's idea, it's not plagiarism, you're not assigning the writing process to someone else. You just making some moments clear.
- Dissertation writing services should be performed by experts, people with diplomas and degrees. Everyone knows how to open website and read information, but these people also know how to put all the data in correct order.
- Price matters! If you're looking for free advice go to Reddit and get your answer. If your want a professional help from a trained expert, be ready to pay.
Checking the work
When you get an assistance with your work be sure not to follow blindly the recommendations of the expert, but to check the reliability of his advice as well. Don't forget to consult your professor, share the ideas you've got and ask him to proofread the work before actually finishing it. It might take time, so hopefully, your deadline is still in the future!
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A Step-By-Step Guide to Write the Perfect Dissertation
âA dissertation or a thesis is a long piece of academic writing based on comprehensive research.â
The significance of dissertation writing in the world of academia is unparalleled. A good dissertation paper needs months of research and marks the end of your respected academic journey. It is considered the most effective form of writing in academia and perhaps the longest piece of academic writing you will ever have to complete.
This thorough step-by-step guide on how to write a dissertation will serve as a tool to help you with the task at hand, whether you are an undergraduate student or a Masters or PhD student working on your dissertation project. This guide provides detailed information about how to write the different chapters of a dissertation, such as a problem statement , conceptual framework , introduction , literature review, methodology , discussion , findings , conclusion , title page , acknowledgements , etc.
What is a Dissertation? â Definition
Before we list the stages of writing a dissertation, we should look at what a dissertation is.
The Cambridge dictionary states that a dissertation is a long piece of writing on a particular subject, especially one that is done to receive a degree at college or university, but that is just the tip of the iceberg because a dissertation project has a lot more meaning and context.
To understand a dissertationâs definition, one must have the capability to understand what an essay is. A dissertation is like an extended essay that includes research and information at a much deeper level. Despite the few similarities, there are many differences between an essay and a dissertation.
Another term that people confuse with a dissertation is a thesis. Let's look at the differences between the two terms.
What is the Difference Between a Dissertation and a Thesis?
Dissertation and thesis are used interchangeably worldwide (and may vary between universities and regions), but the key difference is when they are completed. The thesis is a project that marks the end of a degree program, whereas the dissertation project can occur during the degree. Hanno Krieger (Researchgate, 2014) explained the difference between a dissertation and a thesis as follows:
âThesis is the written form of research work to claim an academic degree, like PhD thesis, postgraduate thesis, and undergraduate thesis. On the other hand, a dissertation is only another expression of the written research work, similar to an essay. So the thesis is the more general expression.
In the end, it does not matter whether it is a bachelor's, master or PhD dissertation one is working on because the structure and the steps of conducting research are pretty much identical. However, doctoral-level dissertation papers are much more complicated and detailed.
Problems Students Face When Writing a Dissertation
You can expect to encounter some troubles if you donât yet know the steps to write a dissertation. Even the smartest students are overwhelmed by the complexity of writing a dissertation.
A dissertation project is different from any essay paper you have ever committed to because of the details of planning, research and writing it involves. One can expect rewarding results at the end of the process if the correct guidelines are followed. Still, as indicated previously, there will be multiple challenges to deal with before reaching that milestone.
The three most significant problems students face when working on a dissertation project are the following.
Poor Project Planning
Delaying to start working on the dissertation project is the most common problem. Students think they have sufficient time to complete the paper and are finding ways to write a dissertation in a week, delaying the start to the point where they start stressing out about the looming deadline. When the planning is poor, students are always looking for ways to write their dissertations in the last few days. Although it is possible, it does have effects on the quality of the paper.
Inadequate Research Skills
The writing process becomes a huge problem if one has the required academic research experience. Professional dissertation writing goes well beyond collecting a few relevant reference resources.
You need to do both primary and secondary research for your paper. Depending on the dissertationâs topic and the academic qualification you are a candidate for, you may be required to base your dissertation paper on primary research.
In addition to secondary data, you will also need to collect data from the specified participants and test the hypothesis . The practice of primary collection is time-consuming since all the data must be analysed in detail before results can be withdrawn.
Failure to Meet the Strict Academic Writing Standards
Research is a crucial business everywhere. Failure to follow the language, style, structure, and formatting guidelines provided by your department or institution when writing the dissertation paper can worsen matters. It is recommended to read the dissertation handbook before starting the write-up thoroughly.
Steps of Writing a Dissertation
For those stressing out about developing an extensive paper capable of filling a gap in research whilst adding value to the existing academic literatureâconducting exhaustive research and analysisâand professionally using the knowledge gained throughout their degree program, there is still good news in all the chaos.
We have put together a guide that will show you how to start your dissertation and complete it carefully from one stage to the next.
Find an Interesting and Manageable Dissertation Topic
A clearly defined topic is a prerequisite for any successful independent research project. An engaging yet manageable research topic can produce an original piece of research that results in a higher academic score.
Unlike essays or assignments, when working on their thesis or dissertation project, students get to choose their topic of research.
You should follow the tips to choose the correct topic for your research to avoid problems later. Your chosen dissertation topic should be narrow enough, allowing you to collect the required secondary and primary data relatively quickly.
Understandably, many people take a lot of time to search for the topic, and a significant amount of research time is spent on it. You should talk to your supervisor or check out the intriguing database of ResearchProspectâs free topics for your dissertation.
Alternatively, consider reading newspapers, academic journals, articles, course materials, and other media to identify relevant issues to your study area and find some inspiration to get going.
You should work closely with your supervisor to agree to a narrowed but clear research plan.Here is what Michelle Schneider, learning adviser at the University of Leeds, had to say about picking the research topics,
âPicking something youâre genuinely interested in will keep you motivated. Consider why itâs important to tackle your chosen topic," Michelle added.
Develop a First-Class Dissertation Proposal.
Once the research topic has been selected, you can develop a solid dissertation proposal . The research proposal allows you to convince your supervisor or the committee members of the significance of your dissertation.
Through the proposal, you will be expected to prove that your work will significantly value the academic and scientific communities by addressing complex and provocative research questions .
Dissertation proposals are much shorter but follow a similar structure to an extensive dissertation paper. If the proposal is optional in your university, you should still create one outline of the critical points that the actual dissertation paper will cover. To get a better understanding of dissertation proposals, you can also check the publicly available samples of dissertation proposals .
Typical contents of the dissertation paper are as follows;
- A brief rationale for the problem your dissertation paper will investigate.
- The hypothesis you will be testing.
- Research objectives you wish to address.
- How will you contribute to the knowledge of the scientific and academic community?
- How will you find answers to the critical research question(s)?
- What research approach will you adopt?
- What kind of population of interest would you like to generalise your result(s) to (especially in the case of quantitative research)?
- What sampling technique(s) would you employ, and why would you not use other methods?
- What ethical considerations have you taken to gather data?
- Who are the stakeholders in your research are/might be?
- What are the future implications and limitations you see in your research?
Letâs review the structure of the dissertation. Keep the format of your proposal simple. Keeping it simple keeps your readers will remain engaged. The following are the fundamental focal points that must be included:
Title of your dissertation: Dissertation titles should be 12 words in length. The focus of your research should be identifiable from your research topic.
Research aim: The overall purpose of your study should be clearly stated in terms of the broad statements of the desired outcomes in the Research aim. Try and paint the picture of your research, emphasising what you wish to achieve as a researcher.
Research objectives: The key research questions you wish to address as part of the project should be listed. Narrow down the focus of your research and aim for at most four objectives. Your research objectives should be linked with the aim of the study or a hypothesis.
Literature review: Consult with your supervisor to check if you are required to use any specific academic sources as part of the literature review process. If that is not the case, find out the most relevant theories, journals, books, schools of thought, and publications that will be used to construct arguments in your literature research.Remember that the literature review is all about giving credit to other authorsâ works on a similar topic
Research methods and techniques: Depending on your dissertation topic, you might be required to conduct empirical research to satisfy the studyâs objectives. Empirical research uses primary data such as questionnaires, interview data, and surveys to collect.
On the other hand, if your dissertation is based on secondary (non-empirical) data, you can stick to the existing literature in your area of study. Clearly state the merits of your chosen research methods under the methodology section.
Expected results: As you explore the research topic and analyse the data in the previously published papers, you will begin to build your expectations around the studyâs potential outcomes. List those expectations here.
Project timeline: Let the readers know exactly how you plan to complete all the dissertation project parts within the timeframe allowed. You should learn more about Microsoft Project and Gantt Charts to create easy-to-follow and high-level project timelines and schedules.
References: The academic sources used to gather information for the proposed paper will be listed under this section using the appropriate referencing style. Ask your supervisor which referencing style you are supposed to follow.
The proposals we write have:
- Precision and Clarity
- Zero Plagiarism
- High-level Encryption
- Authentic Sources
Investigation, Research and Data Collection
This is the most critical stage of the dissertation writing process. One should use up-to-date and relevant academic sources that are likely to jeopardise hard work.
Finding relevant and highly authentic reference resources is the key to succeeding in the dissertation project, so it is advised to take your time with this process. Here are some of the things that should be considered when conducting research.
dissertation project, so it is advised to take your time with this process. Here are some of the things that should be considered when conducting research.
You cannot read everything related to your topic. Although the practice of reading as much material as possible during this stage is rewarding, it is also imperative to understand that it is impossible to read everything that concerns your research.
This is true, especially for undergraduate and masterâs level dissertations that must be delivered within a specific timeframe. So, it is important to know when to stop! Once the previous research and the associated limitations are well understood, it is time to move on.
However, review at least the salient research and work done in your area. By salient, we mean research done by pioneers of your field. For instance, if your topic relates to linguistics and you havenât familiarised yourself with relevant research conducted by, say, Chomsky (the father of linguistics), your readers may find your lack of knowledge disconcerting.
So, to come off as genuinely knowledgeable in your own field, at least donât forget to read essential works in the field/topic!
Use an Authentic Research database to Find References.
Most students start the reference material-finding process with desk-based research. However, this research method has its own limitation because it is a well-known fact that the internet is full of bogus information and fake information spreads fasters on the internet than truth does .
So, it is important to pick your reference material from reliable resources such as Google Scholar , Researchgate, Ibibio and Bartleby . Wikipedia is not considered a reliable academic source in the academic world, so it is recommended to refrain from citing Wikipedia content.Never underrate the importance of the actual library. The supporting staff at a university library can be of great help when it comes to finding exciting and reliable publications.
Record as you learn
All information and impressions should be recorded as notes using online tools such as Evernote to make sure everything is clear. You want to retain an important piece of information you had planned to present as an argument in the dissertation paper.
Write a Flawless Dissertation
Start to write a fantastic dissertation immediately once your proposal has been accepted and all the necessary desk-based research has been conducted. Now we will look at the different chapters of a dissertation in detail. You can also check out the samples of dissertation chapters to fully understand the format and structures of the various chapters.
Dissertation Introduction Chapter
The introduction chapter of the dissertation paper provides the background, problem statement and research questions. Here, you will inform the readers why it was important for this research to be conducted and which key research question(s) you expect to answer at the end of the study.
Definitions of all the terms and phrases in the project are provided in this first chapter of the dissertation paper. The research aim and objectives remain unchanged from the proposal paper and are expected to be listed under this section.
Dissertation Literature Review Chapter
This chapter allows you to demonstrate to your readers that you have done sufficient research on the chosen topic and understand previous similar studiesâ findings. Any research limitations that your research incorporates are expected to be discussed in this section.
And make sure to summarise the viewpoints and findings of other researchers in the dissertation literature review chapter. Show the readers that there is a research gap in the existing work and your job is relevant to it to justify your research value.
Dissertation Methodology
The methodology chapter of the dissertation provides insight into the methods employed to collect data from various resources and flows naturally from the literature review chapter.Simply put, you will be expected to explain what you did and how you did it, helping the readers understand that your research is valid and reliable. When writing the methodology chapter for the dissertation, make sure to emphasise the following points:
- The type of research performed by the researcher
- Methods employed to gather and filter information
- Techniques that were chosen for analysis
- Materials, tools and resources used to conduct research (typically for empirical research dissertations)
- Limitations of your chosen methods
- Reliability and validity of your measuring tools and instruments (e.g. a survey questionnaire) are also typically mentioned within the mythology section. If you used a pre-existing data collection tool, cite its reliability/validity estimates here, too.Make use of the past tense when writing the methodology chapter.
Dissertation Findings
The key results of your research are presented in the dissertation findings chapter . It gives authors the ability to validate their own intellectual and analytical skills
Dissertation Conclusion
Cap off your dissertation paper with a study summary and a brief report of the findings. In the concluding chapter , you will be expected to demonstrate how your research will provide value to other academics in your area of study and its implications.It is recommended to include a short ârecommendationsâ section that will elaborate on the purpose and need for future research to elucidate the topic further.
Follow the referencing style following the requirements of your academic degree or field of study. Make sure to list every academic source used with a proper in-text citation. It is important to give credit to other authorsâ ideas and concepts.
Note: Keep in mind whether you are creating a reference list or a bibliography. The former includes information about all the various sources you referred to, read from or took inspiration from for your own study. However, the latter contains things you used and those you only read but didnât cite in your dissertation.
Proofread, Edit and Improve â Donât Risk Months of Hard Work.
Experts recommend completing the total dissertation before starting to proofread and edit your work. You need to refresh your focus and reboot your creative brain before returning to another critical stage.
Leave space of at least a few days between the writing and the editing steps so when you get back to the desk, you can recognise your grammar, spelling and factual errors when you get back to the desk.
It is crucial to consider this period to ensure the final work is polished, coherent, well-structured and free of any structural or factual flaws. Daniel Higginbotham from Prospects UK states that:
âLeave yourself sufficient time to engage with your writing at several levels â from reassessing the logic of the whole piece to proofreading to checking youâve paid attention to aspects such as the correct spelling of names and theories and the required referencing format.â
What is the Difference Between Editing and Proofreading?
Editing means that you are focusing on the essence of your dissertation paper. In contrast, proofreading is the process of reviewing the final draft piece to ensure accuracy and consistency in formatting, spelling, facts, punctuation, and grammar.
Editing: Prepare your work for submission by condensing, correcting and modifying (where necessary). When reviewing the paper, make sure that there are coherence and consistency between the arguments you presented.
If an information gap has been identified, fill that with an appropriate piece of information gathered during the research process. It is easy to lose sight of the original purpose if you become over-involved when writing.
Cut out the unwanted text and refine it, so your paperâs content is to the point and concise.Proofreading: Start proofreading your paper to identify formatting, structural, grammar, punctuation and referencing flaws. Read every single sentence of the paper no matter how tired you are because a few puerile mistakes can compromise your months of hard work.
Many students struggle with the editing and proofreading stages due to their lack of attention to detail. Consult a skilled dissertation editor if you are unable to find your flaws. You may want to invest in a professional dissertation editing and proofreading service to improve the pieceâs quality to First Class.
Tips for Writing a Dissertation
Communication with supervisor â get feedback.
Communicate regularly with your supervisor to produce a first-class dissertation paper. Request them to comprehensively review the contents of your dissertation paper before final submission.
Their constructive criticism and feedback concerning different study areas will help you improve your pieceâs overall quality. Keep your supervisor updated about your research progress and discuss any problems that you come up against.
Organising your Time
A dissertation is a lengthy project spanning over a period of months to years, and therefore it is important to avoid procrastination. Stay focused, and manage your time efficiently. Here are some time management tips for writing your dissertation to help you make the most of your time as you research and write.
- Donât be discouraged by the inherently slow nature of dissertation work, particularly in the initial stages.
- Set clear goals and work out your research and write up a plan accordingly.
- Allow sufficient time to incorporate feedback from your supervisor.
- Leave enough time for editing, improving, proofreading, and formatting the paper according to your schoolâs guidelines. This is where you break or make your grade.
- Work a certain number of hours on your paper daily.
- Create a worksheet for your week.
- Work on your dissertation for time periods as brief as 45 minutes or less.
- Stick to the strategic dissertation timeline, so you donât have to do the catchup work.
- Meet your goals by prioritising your dissertation work.
- Strike a balance between being overly organised and needing to be more organised.
- Limit activities other than dissertation writing and your most necessary obligations.
- Keep âtangentâ and âfor the bookâ files.
- Create lists to help you manage your tasks.
- Have âfillerâ tasks to do when you feel burned out or in need of intellectual rest.
- Keep a dissertation journal.
- Pretend that you are working in a more structured work world.
- Limit your usage of email and personal electronic devices.
- Utilise and build on your past work when you write your dissertation.
- Break large tasks into small manageable ones.
- Seek advice from others, and do not be afraid to ask for help.
Dissertation Examples
Here are some samples of a dissertation to inspire you to write mind-blowing dissertations and to help bring all the above-mentioned guidelines home.
DE MONTFORT University Leicester â Examples of recent dissertations
Dissertation Research in Education: Dissertations (Examples)
How Long is a Dissertation?
The entire dissertation writing process is complicated and spans over a period of months to years, depending on whether you are an undergraduate, masterâs, or PhD candidate. Marcus Beck, a PhD candidate, conducted fundamental research a few years ago, research that didnât have much to do with his research but returned answers to some niggling questions every student has about the average length of a dissertation.
A software program specifically designed for this purpose helped Beck to access the universityâs electronic database to uncover facts on dissertation length.
The above illustration shows how the results of his small study were a little unsurprising. Social sciences and humanities disciplines such as anthropology, politics, and literature had the longest dissertations, with some PhD dissertations comprising 150,000 words or more.Engineering and scientific disciplines, on the other hand, were considerably shorter. PhD-level dissertations generally donât have a predefined length as they will vary with your research topic. Ask your school about this requirement if you are unsure about it from the start.
Focus more on the quality of content rather than the number of pages.
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Phrases to Avoid
No matter the style or structure you follow, it is best to keep your language simple. Avoid the use of buzzwords and jargon.
A Word on Stealing Content (Plagiarism)
Very straightforward advice to all students, DO NOT PLAGIARISE. Plagiarism is a serious offence. You will be penalised heavily if you are caught plagiarising. Donât risk years of hard work, as many students in the past have lost their degrees for plagiarising. Here are some tips to help you make sure you donât get caught.
- Copying and pasting from an academic source is an unforgivable sin. Rephrasing text retrieved from another source also falls under plagiarism; itâs called paraphrasing. Summarising anotherâs idea(s) word-to-word, paraphrasing, and copy-pasting are the three primary forms plagiarism can take.
- If you must directly copy full sentences from another source because they fill the bill, always enclose them inside quotation marks and acknowledge the writerâs work with in-text citations.
Are you struggling to find inspiration to get going? Still, trying to figure out where to begin? Is the deadline getting closer? Donât be overwhelmed! ResearchProspect dissertation writing services have helped thousands of students achieve desired outcomes. Click here to get help from writers holding either a master's or PhD degree from a reputed UK university.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a dissertation include.
A dissertation has main chapters and parts that support them. The main parts are:
- Introduction
- Literature review
- Research Methodology
- Your conclusion
Other parts are the abstract, references, appendices etc. We can supply a full dissertation or specific parts of one.
What is the difference between research and a dissertation?
A research paper is a sort of academic writing that consists of the study, source assessment, critical thinking, organisation, and composition, as opposed to a thesis or dissertation, which is a lengthy academic document that often serves as the final project for a university degree.
Can I edit and proofread my dissertation myself?
Of course, you can do proofreading and editing of your dissertation. There are certain rules to follow that have been discussed above. However, finding mistakes in something that you have written yourself can be complicated for some people. It is advisable to take professional help in the matter.
What If I only have difficulty writing a specific chapter of the dissertation?
ResearchProspect ensures customer satisfaction by addressing all relevant issues. We provide dissertation chapter-writing services to students if they need help completing a specific chapter. It could be any chapter from the introduction, literature review, and methodology to the discussion and conclusion.
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Learn about the steps required to successfully complete their research project. Make sure to follow these steps in their respective order.
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Learn More About Our Expert Dissertation Coaching & Consulting Services
Since 2000, we have helped thousands of graduate students finish their doctoral dissertations and master’s theses once and for all. We offer personalized dissertation and thesis coaching and consulting services to graduate students in a wide range of fields in the United States and around the world. Contact us for a free consultation to learn how we can help you earn your degree.
Our Commitment
We are committed to helping graduate students finish their dissertations or masterâs theses and making graduate school as positive a learning experience as possible. We promise to focus on your individual needs and provide honest, straightforward, confidential, and high quality services that will help you successfully earn your degree. Each professional who works at The Dissertation Coach is an expert dissertation and thesis coach, consultant, statistician and/or editor carefully selected to work on our team. No matter how long it has been since you started graduate school, how much you have struggled, or how pessimistic you are about making it to the finish line, we are committed to helping you.
Our Philosophy
We believe that conducting a dissertation or masterâs thesis is both a great challenge and a great opportunity. Your dissertation or thesis experience can be a time in your life when you learn to love and appreciate challenges for the growth in competence they foster, the life experiences they grant, and the wisdom they impart. We seek to foster learning and growth among all of our clients. We believe you can rise to the occasion of completing a dissertation or masterâs thesis and earn the graduate degree you seek.
Finish Your Dissertation Once And For All: How To Overcome Psychological Barriers, Get Results, And Move On With Your Life
Alison B. Miller, Founder of The Dissertation Coach
We are highly committed to helping graduate students finish their dissertations or masterâs theses and making graduate school as positive a learning experience as possible. We promise to focus on your individual needs and provide honest, straightforward, confidential, and high quality services that will help you successfully earn your degree. Each professional who works at The Dissertation Coach is an expert dissertation and thesis coach, consultant, statistician and/or editor carefully selected to work on our team. No matter how long it has been since you started graduate school, how much you have struggled, or how pessimistic you are about making it to the finish line, we are committed to helping you.
Dissertation Coaching
Dissertation coaching is a service we designed to help you successfully structure the dissertation or thesis process, create realistic work plans, increase accountability and effectively help you overcome internal and external barriers that students experience on the path to earning a doctoral or masterâs degree. Common barriers are negative thinking, anxiety, stress, procrastination, writerâs block, perfectionism, lack of faculty support, committee issues, managing multiple roles and responsibilities, and difficulty managing time effectively. We have developed a sound coaching model specifically designed to help graduate students succeed and develop skills they can use in their future careers. Read more information about this service on our Coaching page.
Dissertation Consulting
Dissertation consulting is a service we designed to offer technical assistance to graduate students as they carry out their thesis or doctoral research. We can help you develop a sound study, support you to competently execute the study, and successfully complete and defend the final product. Our dissertation consultants are experts in developing a dissertation or thesis topic, developing literature reviews, research design, methodology, developmental editing, statistical analysis, qualitative analysis and writing up research findings. As consultants we provide clear, direct guidance and mentoring that will help you succeed while you remain the author of your own work. Read more about dissertation consulting on our Consulting and Statistics pages.
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How to Write a Dissertation
Select a relevant topic, understand academic requirements, conduct thorough research, formulate a solid thesis, revise thoroughly, seek feedback for finalization.
A graduate school class will not be complete without writingâ or at least preparingâ a dissertation. How to write a dissertation step-by-step is probably the most important question out there, but as a PhD student with many things to consider, this might not be an easy route for you.Â
As many graduate students share the same brunt and difficulty in putting together things for their dissertation, this blog is surely geared to help you create only one thing in particularâ a cheat sheetâ that will help you navigate the grueling process of crafting your research manifesto in the easiest way possible.Â
This cheat sheet, having to consider the different dissertation formats and other auxiliary components that might help enrich your paper, will not just empower you to complete your dissertation in no time. Still, it will also let you be empowered and inspired to value your craft in research and contribute meaningfully to the ever-growing knowledge base of your field of study.
What is a Dissertation?
A dissertation is a substantial academic work, typically required for a doctoral degree. It involves original research, focused on a specific question, and demonstrates extensive knowledge in the field. This lengthy document includes structured analysis and often culminates in a formal defense.
A dissertation represents the zenith of academic pursuits, a testament to scholarly dedication that signifies a transition from student to scholar status. Let's delve into what constitutes a dissertation and its pivotal role in academia.
The Essence of a DissertationFundamentally, a dissertation is a comprehensive, systematically organized document that reports on an original research project. This extensive work is usually a requirement for obtaining a doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D. or Ed.D. While the exact specifications and structures can differ across various academic disciplines and institutions, certain key aspects universally characterize a dissertation:
Novel Contribution : Central to a dissertation is its contribution of new understanding, methods, or theories to a specific field. This involves carrying out fresh research, which often includes gathering and analyzing new data.
Deep Investigation : A dissertation delves into a particular topic or query in great depth. It encompasses a thorough review of existing literature and an in-depth exploration of the subject matter.
Organized Composition : Typically, dissertations are presented in a well-organized format comprising sections like an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Though the structure might vary slightly, it follows a coherent and logical order.
Scholarly Excellence : Upholding high scholarly standards, dissertations demand critical analysis, sophisticated analytical capabilities, and proficient academic writing. They must conform to the accepted norms of academic citations and referencing.
How to Write a Dissertation Step-by-Step
Writing a dissertation is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and execution. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Choose Your Topic : Select a topic that interests you and is relevant to your field of study. Ensure it's specific enough to be manageable but broad enough to allow for comprehensive research.
- Develop a Research Question : Formulate a clear and focused research question or hypothesis. This will guide your research and writing.
- Write a Proposal : Prepare a proposal outlining your research question, methodology, and how your work will contribute to your field. This usually needs approval from your academic supervisor.
- Conduct a Literature Review : Review existing literature to understand the current state of research on your topic. This helps to identify gaps your dissertation can fill.
- Design the Research Methodology : Decide on the methods you will use for data collection and analysis. This could be experimental, survey-based, a literature review, etc., depending on your field.
- Collect Data : Undertake the research as per your methodology. This might involve experiments, surveys, fieldwork, or other forms of data collection.
- Analyze the Data : Interpret your findings, considering how they answer your research question. Use appropriate statistical methods if your study involves quantitative data.
- Write the Dissertation : Start writing your dissertation. Commonly, this includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
- Edit and Revise : Revisit your draft, refining your arguments and ensuring clarity. Pay attention to the structure, coherence, and academic style.
- Feedback : Share drafts with your supervisor and possibly peers for feedback. Use this to improve and refine your dissertation.
- Finalize Your Dissertation : After revisions and ensuring that all sections are cohesive and well-presented, finalize your dissertation. Make sure all parts are well-formatted and adhere to your institution's guidelines.
- Prepare for the Defense : If your program requires it, prepare to defend your dissertation in front of a committee. This involves presenting your research and answering questions.
Remember, each dissertation journey is unique. The key is to stay organized, consult with your advisor regularly, and manage your time efficiently.
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Key Factors to Consider for a Successful Dissertation
In providing the steps to writing a dissertation, it will be easy for one to understand the factors that could play niceâ or dirtyâ on your preparation process. By now, you might be wondering why these factors are so important in all sorts of writing endeavors.
Different and specialized in dissertation writing, knowing these factors will save you from the rigorous and often brutal process of validating your paper.Â
Since you are vying for the highest academic degree, there is virtually no room for errors, and your paper must embody your victory to contribute meaningfully to your field of study, whether theoretically or practically.
Trust me: these factors are not just some sort of advice or pointers that you need to remember once; these are elements that will greatly influence your success on the defense panel.Â
Originality
When writing your dissertation, your first question must be in this form or something related to this: âWhat makes this paper NEW?â If you are planning to do something plain, predictable, or common, then I have to burst your bubbles.
That will not even go through the pre-defense panel, to say the least. You, as a doctoral student, are expected to write a dissertation that âbreaks the groundsâ of your stream of study. It has to be original or something that continues to unravel the mystery of something unknown.
When talking about this element; you have to likewise involve yourself in the discovery of new knowledge, innovative methodologies, or the expansion of new theories.
Interdisciplinarity
Considered a novel method in advanced research writing and how to write a dissertation, interdisciplinarity explains how other fields or streams of study can help enrich oneâs understanding of a question or problem using concepts, methods, and literature from various academic disciplines.
The element of interdisciplinarity may come from different approaches and strategies. It may look something like defining terms in different contexts, synthesizing a body of knowledge, including some insights from other disciplines, and employing methodological pluralism, which uses a variety of research methods to provide holistic findings to complex research questions and enhance the robustness of the dissertation.
Practicality
Practicality is probably the most overlooked element in traditional research writing, and that is okay, as it is unnecessary when your scope is only that much. However, when writing your dissertation, the knowledge from your research must bear fruit that people within your field of study may find useful.
It may be an intervention plan, a physical invention, a theory or model, or an ordinance, among others. The common denominator of these practical things that arose from dissertation writing is their usefulness in providing a concrete solution to an identified problem.Â
Extensiveness
The large breadth of effort and knowledge a dissertation paper is trying to provide is more than what you can expect from a research paper done by high schoolers and undergraduates.
In pursuit of new knowledge or expanding a theory, for example, one must find pieces of evidence not often found in the common repositories.
Your literature review likewise demonstrates this element by thoroughly examining findings from reputable sources that are otherwise not used frequently in most scholarly works.
The display of variables in the study is articulated in the most specific way by using tailor-fit conceptual frameworks.
These four elements of an excellent dissertation paper need to be seen throughout the paper, and luckily, a dissertation writing service like Studyfy can make that possible for you.
Our team of experts, PhD holders, and seasoned researchers is dedicated to transforming your academic aspirations into reality by tailoring your paper to your specific needs and guaranteeing originalityâ a 100% pass from a plagiarism scan!
Tips for Writing a Dissertation
Since this is a cheat sheet for answering the question of how to write a dissertation in no time, I will not give you much of an introduction on this part, but all I want you to know is that you are in for a major treat!
Pre-Planning Phase
- Select a Specific Stream or Subgenre : Identify a field or subgenre with recognizable gaps or understudied aspects to focus your research.
- Develop Unique Research Questions : Formulate precise and original questions aimed at extracting useful findings and contributing to new knowledge.
- Conduct a Targeted Literature Review : Focus on peer-reviewed materials, articles published in reputable journals, and authoritative sources that are open to further exploration.
- Undertake Extensive Background Research : As many dissertation topics are novel, delve into primary sources of information and document them comprehensively to deepen your understanding of the subject.
â Manuscript Writing Phase
- Divide Introduction into Chapters : Breaking the introduction or background information into chapters enhances clarity, allows focus on specific aspects of each section, and prevents overwhelming readers with too much information at once.
- Detailed Introduction : Donât hesitate to extend your introduction if necessary. A detailed introduction sets a solid foundation for your dissertation, avoiding ambiguity and providing clear context.
- Utilize Mixed Method Design : This research design combines qualitative and quantitative approaches, offering a more nuanced view and stronger inference for complex problems.
- Holistic and Interdisciplinary Approach : Present findings in a way that contributes to the broader research ecosystem. Incorporating interdisciplinary insights can enhance the value of your work to other fields.
- View the Manuscript as Iterative : Accept that your dissertation will undergo multiple revisions. Use feedback constructively to avoid repeating issues and continuously improve your manuscript.
Post-Manuscript Phase
- Develop a Submission Checklist : Prepare a checklist to track tasks such as finalizing appendices, reviewing citations and references, and submitting your paper for ethics clearance. Ensuring compliance with these details is crucial for degree completion.
- Refine Your Abstract : Focus on crafting a clear and comprehensive abstract, as it represents the key elements of your paper and is often the first part reviewed by advisors or for presentations and publications.
- Edit and Format According to a Style Guide : After writing, rigorously edit and format your manuscript, aligning it with a specific academic style guide. Consult with your advisor or research committee if unsure about the appropriate style guide.
- Create a Condensed Version of Your Manuscript : Prepare a condensed, annotated version of your dissertation for use during defense presentations. Annotate with potential questions and criticisms to prepare thoroughly.
- Prepare for Presentation or Publication : If your goal is to contribute to your field, prepare your dissertation for potential research conferences or journal publications, expanding its reach and impact within the academic community.
Enjoyed our article?For further assistance, dive into our network of professional writers and access expert dissertation writing services!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to write a dissertation.
The duration for writing a dissertation varies significantly based on research complexity, field of study, and individual work habits. Typically, for doctoral students, the process can span from a year to several years post-coursework. This timeframe encompasses developing a research question, conducting a literature review, crafting a methodology, data collection and analysis, writing, and revisions. Effective time management and regular consultation with advisors are crucial for progress.
For master's programs, this period may be shorter, often around one to two years, depending on the program's intensity and requirements.
If you're struggling with your dissertation and considering alternative solutions, it's important to research and understand the options available, such as the choice to buy a dissertation , ensuring it aligns with your academic goals and requirements.
What is the best way to structure a dissertation?
To effectively structure a dissertation, start with an introduction where you set the stage for your research, stating the problem, objectives, and its significance. Follow this with a literature review that situates your work within the existing body of knowledge, demonstrating how your research fills a gap or adds a new perspective. The methodology section should then detail the methods you used for data collection and analysis, explaining why they were appropriate for your research question. Next, present your results, laying out the data and findings clearly.
In the discussion section, interpret these results, connecting them back to your hypothesis and the literature review. Conclude with a summary of your findings, their implications, and potential directions for future research. Throughout, ensure your work is supported by appropriate references, and include any necessary appendices for supplementary material. This flow ensures a coherent and comprehensive presentation of your research journey.
If you need assistance in structuring and articulating your ideas, a dissertation proposal writing service can be a valuable resource.
What are the essential steps in writing a dissertation?
Writing a dissertation involves several key steps. First, select a topic that's both relevant and interesting to you. Then, write a research proposal outlining your question and methodology. Conduct a comprehensive literature review to understand the existing research landscape. Define your research methodology, detailing how you'll collect and analyze data. After gathering data, analyze it to draw conclusions. Finally, write your dissertation, presenting your research, findings, and conclusions in a structured format. This process includes extensive writing, revising, and often culminates in a formal defense of your work.
How do I choose a dissertation topic?
Selecting a dissertation topic involves identifying a subject that interests you and is relevant to your field. Start by considering areas you're passionate about and explore how they intersect with your academic discipline. Review current research and trends to find gaps or unanswered questions in your field. Consult with your academic advisor or mentors to refine your ideas, and consider the feasibility in terms of resources, data availability, and time constraints. Choose a topic that offers scope for original research, contributes to your field, and aligns with your career goals. It's also important to ensure that the topic is manageable in scale for the duration of your program.
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W. riting a dissertation or thesis is not a simple task. It takes time, energy and a lot of will power to get you across the finish line. It's not easy - but it doesn't necessarily need to be a painful process. If you understand the big-picture process of how to write a dissertation or thesis, your research journey will be a lot smoother.
Think of a dissertation as the "final exam" for earning certain academic degrees. Although different schools in different countries have their own procedures, in general students submit a dissertation with the help of an adviser, and the dissertation is then reviewed by experts in the field to see if it qualifies for the degree.
Doctoral dissertations make an original contribution to the field, and your research will be the basis of that contribution. ... Looking at examples of dissertations can help you set realistic expectations and understand what your discipline wants in a successful dissertation. Ask your advisor if the department has recent dissertation examples.
However, hard science and social science dissertations typically include a review of existing works, a methodology section, an analysis of your original research, and a presentation of your results, presented in different chapters. Dissertation examples. We've compiled a list of dissertation examples to help you get started.
Look for Dissertation Examples. To help yourself write a dissertation, check out other dissertation examples before starting. This is an effective way to learn how things like literature review work and how an interesting dissertation proposal plan is made. They'll also show you how to cite resources and correctly label images.
A dissertation requires choosing a relevant topic, conducting thorough research, crafting a compelling proposal, structuring the dissertation effectively, and presenting your findings clearly. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of making an effective dissertation, from selecting the right topic to defending your work ...
Dissertation help is 100% legal. It's not copying someone's idea, it's not plagiarism, you're not assigning the writing process to someone else. You just making some moments clear. Dissertation writing services should be performed by experts, people with diplomas and degrees. Everyone knows how to open website and read information, but these ...
A dissertation is a lengthy project spanning over a period of months to years, and therefore it is important to avoid procrastination. Stay focused, and manage your time efficiently. Here are some time management tips for writing your dissertation to help you make the most of your time as you research and write.
The Dissertation Coach: Expert help for graduate students since 2000. Get one-on-one support to finish your dissertation or thesis. Home; Coaching. ... We are committed to helping graduate students finish their dissertations or master's theses and making graduate school as positive a learning experience as possible. We promise to focus on ...
Finalize Your Dissertation: After revisions and ensuring that all sections are cohesive and well-presented, finalize your dissertation. Make sure all parts are well-formatted and adhere to your institution's guidelines. Prepare for the Defense: If your program requires it, prepare to defend your dissertation in front of a committee. This ...