How to write a dissertation
Writing a dissertation is a significant academic undertaking that requires careful planning, research, and dedication. This comprehensive guide aims to provide a step-by-step approach to help you navigate through the process of writing a successful dissertation. Whether you are a graduate student embarking on your dissertation journey or a researcher seeking valuable insights, the following sections will guide you through the essential elements of crafting a well-structured and impactful dissertation.
What is a dissertation?
A dissertation is a lengthy and formal academic document that presents the results of original research conducted by a student to fulfill the requirements for earning a doctoral degree. It is a comprehensive piece of writing that demonstrates a candidate’s ability to engage in independent and scholarly research within their chosen field of study. Dissertations are common in doctoral programs, such as Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or Doctor of Education (Ed.D.).
- The dissertation must also include a summary explaining the aims, methodology, results and conclusions of the research.
- Inability to correctly define the dissertation and its objectives,
- Desire to put off their work until the last minute,
- Lack of research skills,
- And inadequate writing skills.
We will help you set realistic goals and achieve them in an effective way. We will also provide moral support and motivation to help you stay on the path to success.
Need help WRITING RESUMES?
Just submit your requirements and choose a resume writer. That’s all we need to write a winning resume for you.
How long is the dissertation?
The length of a dissertation can vary widely depending on factors such as the academic discipline, specific program requirements, and the nature of the research. There is no universal standard for the length of a dissertation, but certain general guidelines can be helpful.
In terms of word count, dissertations typically range from 15,000 to 50,000 words or more. However, this can vary significantly. Some disciplines, especially in the humanities and social sciences, may produce longer dissertations due to the extensive literature reviews and qualitative research involved. In contrast, dissertations in more quantitative or technical fields may be shorter because of the focus on data analysis and concise presentation of results.
It’s essential to check the specific requirements of your academic program or institution, as they often provide guidelines regarding the expected length of a dissertation. Some programs may specify a minimum and maximum word count, while others may provide page limits.
The structure of the dissertation, including the number and depth of chapters, can also influence its length. The typical structure includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. However, variations may occur based on the requirements of the specific academic field.
Additionally, the depth of the literature review, the complexity of the research methodology, and the extent of data analysis can all impact the overall length. It’s crucial to prioritize quality and thoroughness over sheer length, focusing on meeting the objectives of the research and contributing meaningfully to the academic field.
Ultimately, the length of a dissertation is determined by the unique requirements of your academic program and the scope and depth of your research. Before starting your dissertation, carefully review the guidelines provided by your institution and seek clarification from your advisor or committee if needed.
Dissertation vs thesis
The terms “dissertation” and “thesis” are often used interchangeably, and their meanings can vary depending on the country and the educational system. However, in many contexts, there are distinct differences between a dissertation and a thesis:
Geographical Differences:
In the United States and Canada, the term “thesis” is commonly used to refer to a master’s level research project, while a “dissertation” typically refers to a doctoral-level research project.
In the United Kingdom and many other countries, the opposite is true. “Thesis” is commonly used for doctoral projects, and “dissertation” is used for master’s level projects.
Degree Level:
A thesis is generally associated with a master’s degree program. It represents the culmination of a student’s master’s-level studies and often involves original research or a significant project.
A dissertation is typically associated with a doctoral degree (Ph.D., Ed.D., etc.). It is a comprehensive and original piece of research that contributes new knowledge to the field.
Scope and Originality:
Theses at the master’s level often involve a synthesis of existing knowledge, application of concepts, or original research on a smaller scale compared to a dissertation.
Dissertations at the doctoral level are expected to make a substantial and original contribution to the academic field. They involve more extensive research, a more comprehensive literature review, and a deeper exploration of the chosen topic.
Length and Depth:
Generally, dissertations are longer and more in-depth than theses. Doctoral dissertations can range from 50,000 to 100,000 words or more, depending on the field and the nature of the research.
Master’s theses are typically shorter, often ranging from 20,000 to 40,000 words, but the length can vary by program.
Defense:
Both theses and dissertations may require an oral defense, where the candidate presents and defends their research findings in front of a committee of faculty members. However, the expectations for the defense can vary between institutions and programs.
It’s important to note that these distinctions are not universal, and variations exist. The terminology and expectations for the final research project can differ significantly between academic institutions and countries. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult the specific guidelines and requirements of your academic program to understand how these terms are used in your context.
Decide on structure
The methods used are data analysis, field research, surveys, interviews, and observations. Data analysis involves collecting and analyzing information from various sources to identify patterns and relationships between variables. Field research involves collecting data directly from locations that are relevant to the problem being researched. Surveys are a method for gathering information about respondents’ opinions or preferences. Interview is a process whereby a researcher asks respondents about a particular problem. Observation is a method for gathering information by observing the behavior or actions of other people.
- INTRODUCTION
- Literature review of your relevant sources
- An explanation of your methodology
- An overview where you write about the results of your research
- Discussion of your main results and their significance
- A conclusion
Post write process
The post-writing process, also known as the revision and editing phase, is a crucial step in producing a polished and refined piece of writing. Here is a step-by-step guide to the post-write process:
Take a Break:
- After completing the initial draft, take a break before starting the revision process. This allows you to approach your writing with a fresh perspective.
Read Aloud:
- Read your writing aloud. This helps you identify awkward phrasing, grammatical errors, and areas where the flow can be improved. It also allows you to assess the overall coherence of your writing.
Check for Clarity and Coherence:
- Ensure that your ideas are presented in a logical order. Check for transitions between paragraphs and sections to guarantee a smooth flow of information.
Review Structure and Organization:
- Examine the overall structure of your piece. Check if the introduction, body, and conclusion are well-defined and if the content is organized in a clear and effective manner.
Evaluate Sentences and Paragraphs:
- Assess the clarity and conciseness of individual sentences. Avoid overly complex sentences and ensure that each paragraph has a clear topic sentence and supports the main idea.
Check Consistency:
- Ensure consistency in terminology, formatting, and writing style throughout your document. Check that headings, subheadings, and fonts are uniform.
Verify Citations and References:
- If your writing includes citations or references, ensure they are accurate and properly formatted according to the required citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).
Eliminate Redundancy:
- Identify and remove any redundant or repetitive information. Ensure that each sentence contributes meaningfully to the overall message.
Grammar and Punctuation:
- Conduct a thorough review of grammar and punctuation. Check for common errors such as subject-verb agreement, verb tense consistency, and proper use of commas, periods, and other punctuation marks.
Seek Feedback:
- Share your writing with peers, colleagues, or mentors. Constructive feedback from others can provide valuable insights and help you identify areas for improvement.
Revise for Clarity and Conciseness:
- Focus on making your writing clear, concise, and engaging. Eliminate unnecessary words and ensure that your ideas are communicated in a straightforward manner.
Final Proofreading:
- Perform a final proofreading to catch any remaining spelling, grammar, or typographical errors. This is the last opportunity to polish your writing before submission.
Formatting Check:
- Confirm that your document adheres to any formatting guidelines provided by your institution or publication. Pay attention to margins, fonts, line spacing, and other formatting elements.
Submission Readiness:
- Before submitting your work, double-check that all requirements have been met. Ensure you have included any necessary appendices, tables, figures, or other supplementary materials.
By following these steps, you can enhance the overall quality of your writing, ensure clarity and coherence, and present a well-organized and error-free document. The post-write process is an essential part of the writing journey that transforms a draft into a polished and professional piece of work.