How to write a good dissertation
- 1. How to Write a Good DissertationThis Presentation is the Property of StuCred
- 2. 1) Think Broad Then Narrow a. The first step is always the hardest. One thing that helps is to start thinking broadly about what interests you. b. Once you’ve gotten a good number of thoughts down on paper, begin to analyze each one. c. Look for a problem, or an inconsistency, within these topics that you would like to talk about.
- 3. 2) Introduction a. Clearly expand on the material summarised in the abstract b. It should signpost/highlight the content of the rest of the dissertation c. Give the reader background information, contextualising your research d. Clearly outline the focus/aim of your research- the position you are taking and why, what is the issue at hand, how it links to the background information, and so forth e. Clearly outline why this study/research is valuable and worth conducting- this is very important, think about the WHY of it all f. Outline the objective and intended outcome of your work- clarity, achievability, distinctness and relatability to your area of study
- 4. 3) Conclusion a. Conclusions’ as to the main points that have emerged and what they mean for your field b. Do not regurgitate your thesis c. Further applications of your research- think back to the value of your project
- 5. 4) Abstract a. A clearly outlined statement of the issue/problem your are analysing and the reason that you are researching said issue b. A brief outline of what each rung/section/chapter of your thesis will address c. Your research methods and findings d. What is your conclusion/ what did you find
- 6. 5) Checking for Resources a. Find reputable sources b. Read literature on what is said against your tentative position 6) Find and Use Library References a. Talk to your professors, ask the librarian for help, bounce ideas off of your friends 7) Cite as You Go a. The best way to cite a source is to cite it the second you use it b. Attempting to remember what source you used where will be a headache if you leave it for the end
- 7. 8) Edit, Edit, Edit… a. Leave plenty of time for editing- good writing is in editing. b. Is your argument clear? Are you rambling in some parts? Could you make your conclusion stronger? If so, how? Have you backed up all your claims? Have you made sure to address opposing points of view? How well have you refuted other arguments? 9) Just Start Writing a. Just start writing, don’t delay this. You can always edit later
- 8. 10) Write as You Go a. It is super important to be prepared to critique and revise your own work several times. b. Even your early chapters, already assessed, may need revision later. c. It is a positive sign of your growth in experience and skill. Want to learn a different language but can’t afford it? Don’t worry! Download StuCred now for real- time, interest-free loans.