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Thesis – Outline, Structure and Writing Guide

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A thesis is a substantial research document submitted as part of a degree program, typically at the master’s or doctoral level. It presents original research findings, explores a specific topic in depth, and contributes to the academic field. Writing a thesis requires thorough planning, a clear structure, and a methodical approach to present arguments and evidence effectively.

This guide explains the outline, structure, and step-by-step process for writing a thesis, offering tips to ensure academic success.

Thesis Outline

A thesis outline serves as a roadmap for organizing ideas, arguments, and evidence logically. It ensures consistency and coherence throughout the document. Below is a general outline for a thesis:

• Title of the thesis.
• Author’s name.
• Institutional affiliation.
• Submission date.
• A concise summary of the research, including objectives, methods, key findings, and conclusions.
• Express gratitude to individuals or organizations that supported the research.
• List of headings and subheadings with corresponding page numbers.
• Include all visual elements like charts, graphs, and tables with page numbers.
• Background of the study.
• Research problem or question.
• Objectives or hypotheses.
• Significance of the research.
• Overview of relevant theories and previous research.
• Identification of research gaps.
• Research design.
• Data collection and analysis methods.
• Ethical considerations.
• Presentation of data and key findings.
• Interpretation of findings.
• Comparison with existing literature.
• Implications of the study.
• Summary of findings.
• Limitations of the research.
• Recommendations for future studies.
• A complete list of all sources cited in the thesis.
• Supplementary material such as survey instruments, raw data, or detailed calculations.

Thesis Structure

1. title page.

The title page includes essential details about the thesis, such as the title, author’s name, program, supervisor, and submission date. Ensure compliance with your institution’s formatting guidelines.

2. Abstract

An abstract is a brief overview of the entire thesis, typically 150–300 words. It provides readers with a summary of the research question, methods, results, and significance.

3. Acknowledgments

Acknowledgments allow you to thank supervisors, colleagues, funding agencies, and others who contributed to your work.

4. Introduction

The introduction sets the stage for the research by explaining:

• Background: Contextualize the research topic.
• Research Problem: Define the problem your study addresses.
• Objectives: State what the research aims to achieve.
• Scope: Outline the boundaries of the research.
• Significance: Highlight the importance of the research for the academic field or practical applications.

5. Literature Review

This section provides a critical analysis of existing research related to the topic. It:

• Discusses key theories and studies.
• Identifies gaps or unresolved issues.
• Justifies the need for the current research.

6. Methodology

The methodology explains how the research was conducted, including:

• Design: Whether the study is qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods.
• Participants: Description of the sample or population.
• Data Collection: Methods used (e.g., surveys, interviews, experiments).
• Analysis: Techniques for analyzing data (e.g., statistical tests, thematic analysis).

This section presents the findings without interpretation. Use tables, charts, and graphs to display data clearly.

8. Discussion

The discussion interprets the findings in relation to the research questions and existing literature. Address:

• Patterns or Trends: Highlight significant results.
• Implications: Discuss how the findings contribute to theory or practice.
• Limitations: Acknowledge constraints or challenges faced.

9. Conclusion

Summarize the research, emphasizing its contributions and the significance of the findings. Suggest areas for future research.

10. References

List all sources cited, formatted according to the required citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

11. Appendices

Include supplementary material that supports the main text but is too detailed for inclusion in the main body.

Writing Guide for a Thesis

Step 1: choose a research topic.

• Select a topic that aligns with your interests and academic goals.
• Ensure the topic is specific, relevant, and feasible.

Step 2: Conduct a Literature Review

• Review existing studies to understand the research landscape.
• Identify gaps or unresolved questions.

Step 3: Define Research Objectives and Questions

• Clearly articulate what the study aims to achieve.
• Develop specific and measurable research questions or hypotheses.

Step 4: Develop a Research Plan

• Choose an appropriate methodology.
• Outline data collection and analysis procedures.
• Seek ethical approval if required.

Step 5: Draft the Thesis Outline

• Create a detailed outline based on the sections and sub-sections described earlier.

Step 6: Write the Thesis

• Start with the Introduction , providing context and stating the research objectives.
• Expand the Literature Review to critically discuss prior studies.
• Describe the Methodology with sufficient detail for replication.
• Present Results clearly using visual aids as needed.
• Interpret the results in the Discussion , relating them to the research objectives.
• Conclude the thesis by summarizing key findings and suggesting future directions.

Step 7: Edit and Revise

• Review the thesis for clarity, coherence, and accuracy.
• Ensure adherence to formatting and citation guidelines.

Step 8: Submit and Defend

• Submit the completed thesis for review.
• Prepare for the oral defense by anticipating questions and rehearsing answers.

Tips for Writing a Thesis

• Start Early: Allocate sufficient time for research, writing, and revisions.
• Stay Organized: Use tools like reference managers (e.g., Zotero, Mendeley) and project management apps.
• Seek Feedback: Share drafts with your advisor or peers for constructive feedback.
• Follow Guidelines: Adhere to institutional formatting and submission requirements.
• Stay Focused: Avoid tangential information that does not contribute to your research objectives.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Procrastination: Set daily writing goals and deadlines to stay on track.
• Writer’s Block: Break tasks into smaller, manageable sections to build momentum.
• Data Overload: Focus on key findings that directly address the research questions.
• Time Management: Use a detailed timeline to balance research, writing, and personal commitments.

Example of a Thesis Outline

Title: The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health

• Acknowledgments
• Background of Social Media Use
• Research Problem and Objectives
• Theories of Media Influence
• Existing Research on Adolescents and Mental Health
• Research Design (Quantitative Survey)
• Sample (High School Students)
• Data Collection Tools (Online Questionnaire)
• Statistical Analysis of Anxiety Levels and Screen Time
• Patterns of Social Media Usage
• Interpretation of Findings
• Implications for Education and Policy
• Study Limitations

A thesis represents a culmination of academic research and intellectual effort, showcasing a student’s ability to contribute to their field. By adhering to a clear outline, well-structured format, and methodical writing process, students can create a compelling and impactful thesis. With proper planning, time management, and attention to detail, writing a thesis becomes an achievable and rewarding academic milestone.

• Creswell, J. W. (2018). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches . Sage Publications.
• Murray, R. (2011). How to Write a Thesis . Open University Press.
• Swales, J. M., & Feak, C. B. (2012). Academic Writing for Graduate Students . University of Michigan Press.
• American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.).
• Mauch, J. E., & Birch, J. W. (2010). Guide to the Successful Thesis and Dissertation . CRC Press.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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HOW TO WRITE A THESIS: Steps by step guide

Introduction

In the academic world, one of the hallmark rites signifying mastery of a course or academic area is the writing of a thesis . Essentially a thesis is a typewritten work, usually 50 to 350 pages in length depending on institutions, discipline, and educational level which is often aimed at addressing a particular problem in a given field.

While a thesis is inadequate to address all the problems in a given field, it is succinct enough to address a specialized aspect of the problem by taking a stance or making a claim on what the resolution of the problem should be. Writing a thesis can be a very daunting task because most times it is the first complex research undertaking for the student. The lack of research and writing skills to write a thesis coupled with fear and a limited time frame are factors that makes the writing of a thesis daunting. However, commitment to excellence on the part of the student combined with some of the techniques and methods that will be discussed below gives a fair chance that the student will be able to deliver an excellent thesis regardless of the subject area, the depth of the research specialization and the daunting amount of materials that must be comprehended(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

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What is a thesis?

A thesis is a statement, theory, argument, proposal or proposition, which is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved. It explains the stand someone takes on an issue and how the person intends to justify the stand. It is always better to pick a topic that will be able to render professional help, a topic that you will be happy to talk about with anybody, a topic you have personal interest and passion for, because when writing a thesis gets frustrating personal interest, happiness and passion coupled with the professional help it will be easier to write a great thesis (see you through the thesis). One has to source for a lot of information concerning the topic one is writing a thesis on in order to know the important question, because for you to take a good stand on an issue you have to study the evidence first.

Qualities of a good thesis

A good thesis has the following qualities

• A good thesis must solve an existing problem in the society, organisation, government among others.
• A good thesis should be contestable, it should propose a point that is arguable which people can agree with or disagree.
• It is specific, clear and focused.
•   A good thesis does not use general terms and abstractions.  
• The claims of a good thesis should be definable and arguable.
• It anticipates the counter-argument s
• It does not use unclear language
• It avoids the first person. (“In my opinion”)
• A strong thesis should be able to take a stand and not just taking a stand but should be able to justify the stand that is taken, so that the reader will be tempted to ask questions like how or why.
• The thesis should be arguable, contestable, focused, specific, and clear. Make your thesis clear, strong and easy to find.
• The conclusion of a thesis should be based on evidence.

Steps in writing a Thesis

• First, think about good topics and theories that you can write before writing the thesis, then pick a topic. The topic or thesis statement is derived from a review of existing literature in the area of study that the researcher wants to explore. This route is taken when the unknowns in an area of study are not yet defined. Some areas of study have existing problems yearning to be solved and the drafting of the thesis topic or statement revolves around a selection of one of these problems.
• Once you have a good thesis, put it down and draw an outline . The outline is like a map of the whole thesis and it covers more commonly the introduction, literature review, discussion of methodology, discussion of results and the thesis’ conclusions and recommendations. The outline might differ from one institution to another but the one described in the preceding sentence is what is more commonly obtainable. It is imperative at this point to note that the outline drew still requires other mini- outlines for each of the sections mentioned. The outlines and mini- outlines provide a graphical over- view of the whole project and can also be used in allocating the word- count for each section and sub- section based on the overall word- count requirement of the thesis(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).
• Literature search. Remember to draw a good outline you need to do literature search to familiarize yourself with the concepts and the works of others. Similarly, to achieve this, you need to read as much material that contains necessary information as you can. There will always be a counter argument for everything so anticipate it because it will help shape your thesis. Read everything you can–academic research, trade literature, and information in the popular press and on the Internet(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).
• After getting all the information you need, the knowledge you gathered should help in suggesting the aim of your thesis.

Remember; a thesis is not supposed to be a question or a list, thesis should specific and as clear as possible. The claims of a thesis should be definable and also arguable.

• Then collecting and analyzing data, after data analysis, the result of the analysis should be written and discussed, followed by summary, conclusion, recommendations, list of references and the appendices
• The last step is editing of the thesis and proper spell checking.

Structure of a Thesis

A conventional thesis has five chapters – chapter 1-5 which will be discussed in detail below. However, it is important to state that a thesis is not limited to any chapter or section as the case may be. In fact, a thesis can be five, six, seven or even eight chapters.  What determines the number of chapters in a thesis includes institution rules/ guideline, researcher choice, supervisor choice, programme or educational level. In fact, most PhD thesis are usually more than 5 chapters(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

Preliminaries Pages: The preliminaries are the cover page, the title page, the table of contents page, and the abstract.

The introduction: The introduction is the first section and it provides as the name implies an introduction to the thesis. The introduction contains such aspects as the background to the study which provides information on the topic in the context of what is happening in the world as related to the topic. It also discusses the relevance of the topic to society, policies formulated success and failure. The introduction also contains the statement of the problem which is essentially a succinct description of the problem that the thesis want to solve and what the trend will be if the problem is not solved. The concluding part of the statement of problem ends with an outline of the research questions. These are the questions which when answered helps in achieving the aim of the thesis. The third section is the outline of research objectives. Conventionally research objectives re a conversion the research questions into an active statement form. Other parts of the introduction are a discussion of hypotheses (if any), the significance of the study, delimitations, proposed methodology and a discussion of the structure of the study(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

The main body includes the following; the literature review, methodology, research results and discussion of the result, the summary, conclusion and recommendations, the list of references and the appendices.

The literature review : The literature review is often the most voluminous aspects of a thesis because it reviews past empirical and theoretical literature about the problem being studied. This section starts by discussing the concepts relevant to the problem as indicated in the topic, the relationship between the concepts and what discoveries have being made on topic based on the choice of methodologies. The validity of the studies reviewed are questioned and findings are compared in order to get a comprehensive picture of the problem. The literature review also discusses the theories and theoretical frameworks that are relevant to the problem, the gaps that are evident in literature and how the thesis being written helps in resolving some of the gaps.

The major importance of Literature review is that it specifies the gap in the existing knowledge (gap in literature). The source of the literature that is being reviewed should be specified. For instance; ‘It has been argued that if the rural youth are to be aware of their community development role they need to be educated’ Effiong, (1992). The author’s name can be at the beginning, end or in between the literature. The literature should be discussed and not just stated (RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

The methodology: The third section is a discussion of the research methodology adopted in the thesis and touches on aspects such as the research design, the area, population and sample that will be considered for the study as well as the sampling procedure. These aspects are discussed in terms of choice, method and rationale. This section also covers the sub- section of data collection, data analysis and measures of ensuring validity of study. It is the chapter 3. This chapter explains the method used in data collection and data analysis. It explains the methodology adopted and why it is the best method to be used, it also explains every step of data collection and analysis. The data used could be primary data or secondary data. While analysing the data, proper statistical tool should be used in order to fit the stated objectives of the thesis. The statistical tool could be; the spearman rank order correlation, chi square, analysis of variance (ANOVA) etc (RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

The findings and discussion of result : The next section is a discussion of findings based on the data collection instrumentation used and the objectives or hypotheses of study if any. It is the chapter 4. It is research results. This is the part that describes the research. It shows the result gotten from data that is collected and analysed. It discusses the result and how it relates to your profession.

Summary, Conclusion and Recommendation: This is normally the chapter 5. The last section discusses the summary of the study and the conclusions arrived at based on the findings discussed in the previous section. This section also presents any policy recommendations that the researcher wants to propose (RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

References: It cite all ideas, concepts, text, data that are not your own. It is acceptable to put the initials of the individual authors behind their last names. The way single author is referenced is different from the way more than one author is referenced (RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).

The appendices; it includes all data in the appendix. Reference data or materials that is not easily available. It includes tables and calculations, List of equipment used for an experiment or details of complicated procedures. If a large number of references are consulted but all are not cited, it may also be included in the appendix. The appendices also contain supportive or complementary information like the questionnaire, the interview schedule, tables and charts while the references section contain an ordered list of all literature, academic and contemporary cited in the thesis. Different schools have their own preferred referencing styles(RE: write a thesis or writing a thesis).   

Follow the following steps to achieve successful thesis writing

Start writing early. Do not delay writing until you have finished your project or research. Write complete and concise “Technical Reports” as and when you finish each nugget of work. This way, you will remember everything you did and document it accurately, when the work is still fresh in your mind. This is especially so if your work involves programming.

Spot errors early. A well-written “Technical Report” will force you to think about what you have done, before you move on to something else. If anything is amiss, you will detect it at once and can easily correct it, rather than have to re-visit the work later, when you may be pressured for time and have lost touch with it.

Write your thesis from the inside out. Begin with the chapters on your own experimental work. You will develop confidence in writing them because you know your own work better than anyone else. Once you have overcome the initial inertia, move on to the other chapters.

End with a bang, not a whimper. First things first, and save the best for last. First and last impressions persist. Arrange your chapters so that your first and last experimental chapters are sound and solid.

Write the Introduction after writing the Conclusions. The examiner will read the Introduction first, and then the Conclusions, to see if the promises made in the former are indeed fulfilled in the latter. Ensure that your introduction and Conclusions match.

“No man is an Island”. The critical review of the literature places your work in context. Usually, one third of the PhD thesis is about others’ work; two thirds, what you have done yourself. After a thorough and critical literature review, the PhD candidate must be able to identify the major researchers in the field and make a sound proposal for doctoral research. Estimate the time to write your thesis and then multiply it by three to get the correct estimate. Writing at one stretch is very demanding and it is all too easy to underestimate the time required for it; inflating your first estimate by a factor of three is more realistic.

Punctuating your thesis

Punctuation Good punctuation makes reading easy. The simplest way to find out where to punctuate is to read aloud what you have written. Each time you pause, you should add a punctuation symbol. There are four major pause symbols, arranged below in ascending order of “degree of pause”:

• Comma. Use the comma to indicate a short pause or to separate items in a list. A pair of commas may delimit the beginning and end of a subordinate clause or phrase. Sometimes, this is also done with a pair of “em dashes” which are printed like this:
• Semi-colon. The semi-colon signifies a longer pause than the comma. It separates segments of a sentence that are “further apart” in position, or meaning, but which are nevertheless related. If the ideas were “closer together”, a comma would have been used. It is also used to separate two clauses that may stand on their own but which are too closely related for a colon or full stop to intervene between them.
• Colon. The colon is used before one or more examples of a concept, and whenever items are to be listed in a visually separate fashion. The sentence that introduced the itemized list you are now reading ended in a colon. It may also be used to separate two fairly—but not totally—independent clauses in a sentence.
• Full stop or period. The full stop ends a sentence. If the sentence embodies a question or an exclamation, then, of course, it is ended with a question mark or exclamation mark, respectively. The full stop is also used to terminate abbreviations like etc., (for et cetera), e.g., (for exempli gratia), et al., (for et alia) etc., but not with abbreviations for SI units. The readability of your writing will improve greatly if you take the trouble to learn the basic rules of punctuation given above.

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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 don’t 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 they’ve already answered it)
• If they haven’t 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 they’ve done “research”, 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 they’ve done “research”… 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 – I’ll 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. It’s 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, you’re 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 you’ve got to do is identify a question or two and you’ve got a winning research topic. Well, not quite…

A good dissertation or thesis topic has a few important attributes. Specifically, a solid research topic should be:

Let’s take a closer look at these:

Attribute #1: Clear

Your research topic needs to be crystal clear about what you’re planning to research, what you want to know, and within what context. There shouldn’t be any ambiguity or vagueness about what you’ll research.

Here’s 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:   Unique

Your research should be asking a question(s) that hasn’t been asked before, or that hasn’t been asked in a specific context (for example, in a specific country or industry).

For example, sticking organisational trust topic above, it’s 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 – otherwise, there’s no reason to warrant researching it.

Attribute #3: Important

Simply asking a unique or original question is not enough – 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 can’t 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 – How To Find A Research Topic . Yeah, we’ve got you covered 😊

Step 3: Write a convincing research proposal

Once you’ve 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 you’ll use for this job.

So, what’s in a research proposal?

The main “job” 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 familiar…)
• You’ve 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 you’ve extensively reviewed the existing literature , but you will need to show that you’ve done enough reading to identify a clear gap for original (unique) research. Similarly, they generally don’t expect that you have a rock-solid research methodology mapped out, but you should have an idea of whether you’ll be undertaking qualitative or quantitative analysis , and how you’ll collect your data (we’ll discuss this in more detail later).

Long story short – don’t stress about having every detail of your research meticulously thought out at the proposal stage – this will develop as you progress through your research. However, you do need to show that you’ve “done your homework” 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 – 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 proposal’s 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, you’ve already got a head start on your first three chapters – 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.

What’s the introduction chapter all about?

The purpose of the introduction chapter is to set the scene for your research (dare I say, to introduce it…) so that the reader understands what you’ll be researching and why it’s 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 – in other words, the specific questions your study will seek to answer (based on the knowledge gap)
• The significance of your study – in other words, why it’s important and how its findings will be useful in the world

As you can see, this all about explaining the “what” and the “why” of your research (as opposed to the “how”). So, your introduction chapter is basically the salesman of your study, “selling” 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, you’ll 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 – but that’s 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.

What’s 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 don’t 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 you’ll 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 – be sure to check out this article covering how to read journal articles quickly .

Literature Review Step 2: Writing up

Once you’ve worked through the literature and digested it all, you’ll 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, you’ll 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, what’s agreed on by researchers, what’s not.
• You need to highlight a research gap that your research is going to fill. In other words, you’ve 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. It’s 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 you’ve completed your literature review and have a sound understanding of the existing research, its time to develop your own research (finally!). You’ll design this research specifically so that you can find the answers to your unique research question.

There are two steps here – designing your research strategy and executing on it:

1 – Design your research strategy

The first step is to design your research strategy and craft a methodology chapter . I won’t get into the technicalities of the methodology chapter here, but in simple terms, this chapter is about explaining the “how” of your research. If you recall, the introduction and literature review chapters discussed the “what” and the “why”, so it makes sense that the next point to cover is the “how” –that’s what the methodology chapter is all about.

In this section, you’ll 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, don’t worry! We’ll explain these in plain language in other posts. It’s not essential that you understand the intricacies of research design (yet!). The key takeaway here is that you’ll need to make decisions about how you’ll design your own research, and you’ll need to describe (and justify) your decisions in your methodology chapter.

2 – Execute: Collect and analyse your data

Once you’ve worked out your research design, you’ll 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 don’t go 100% to plan (for example, you don’t get as many survey responses as you hoped for), so bake a little extra time into your budget here.

Once you’ve collected your data, you’ll 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, you’ll need to transcribe your audio data to text (i.e. a Word document).
• If you collect quantitative survey data, you’ll 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 you’ve completed your data prep, you’ll 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 hadn’t 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 you’ll use depend entirely on the nature of your research and your research questions. For example:

• If your research if exploratory in nature, you’ll often use qualitative analysis techniques .
• If your research is confirmatory in nature, you’ll 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, don’t worry! We’ll explain these concepts and techniques in other posts. The key takeaway is simply that there’s no “one size fits all” for research design and methodology – it all depends on your topic, your research questions and your data. So, don’t be surprised if your study colleagues take a completely different approach to yours.

Step 7: Present your findings

Once you’ve completed your analysis, it’s time to present your findings (finally!). In a dissertation or thesis, you’ll typically present your findings in two chapters – the results chapter and the discussion chapter .

What’s 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, you’ll need to wrap up your research with the conclusion chapter . In this chapter, you’ll 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 by…

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 consider….

The limited impact of Factor E implies that brokers need to…

As you can see, the conclusion chapter is basically explaining the “what” (what your study found) and the “so what?” (what the findings mean for the industry or research). This brings the study full circle and closes off the document.

Let’s recap – how to write a dissertation or thesis

You’re still with me? Impressive! I know that this post was a long one, but hopefully you’ve 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 – 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

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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!

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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 🙂

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.

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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 Thesis – Step by Step Guide

Writing a thesis can seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps can make the process much more manageable. A thesis represents more than just a culmination of your academic knowledge—it’s an opportunity to contribute original insights to your field of study, to engage deeply with existing scholarship, and to showcase your ability to think critically and independently. In this comprehensive guide, we will navigate the intricate path of thesis writing, offering step-by-step instructions, practical tips, and invaluable insights to help you navigate this academic milestone with confidence and proficiency.

Table of Contents

Steps to Write Thesis:

Step 1: choose your topic.

To initiate the thesis writing process, start by brainstorming ideas that align with your interests, prior coursework , and current trends within your field of study. Once you have a pool of potential topics, narrow down your options to a specific subject that is both feasible and relevant to your academic pursuits. Ensure that there is substantial existing literature to support your chosen topic, as this will provide a foundation for your research endeavors. Here is a guide on How to Choose a Thesis Topic?

Step 2: Define Your Research Question

After selecting your topic, the next crucial step is to formulate a clear and concise research question or thesis statement . This statement should succinctly outline the purpose and scope of your study, serving as a guiding principle throughout the research process. Additionally, identify specific objectives that break down your thesis statement into measurable components. Consider the significance of your research question within the broader context of your field and articulate why your study is relevant and valuable.

Step 3: Develop a Research Plan

With your research question in place, develop a comprehensive research plan that outlines the methodologies and strategies you will employ to address your objectives. Choose appropriate research methods, whether qualitative, quantitative, or mixed, that align with your research question and objectives. Design data collection tools such as surveys, interview guides, or experimental protocols, ensuring that they are tailored to your chosen methodologies. It’s also essential to consider ethical considerations, obtaining necessary approvals and ensuring that your research design upholds ethical standards.

Step 4: Conduct Literature Review

Conduct a thorough literature review to familiarize yourself with existing research relevant to your topic. Utilize academic databases, libraries, and online resources to gather a diverse range of scholarly sources. Analyze and evaluate each source for credibility, relevance, and significance to your research question. Synthesize the findings from your literature review, identifying common themes, gaps, and contradictions within the existing body of knowledge.

Step 5: Collect Data

Implement your research methods according to your established plan, whether through surveys, interviews, experiments, or observations. Record your data systematically, ensuring accuracy and consistency in your data collection process. Consider triangulating your data by utilizing multiple sources or methods to enhance the validity and reliability of your findings.

Step 6: Analyze Data

Once you have collected your data, organize and analyze it using appropriate tools and techniques. If you are working with quantitative data, apply statistical analysis methods relevant to your research question. Interpret your findings by identifying patterns, trends, and relationships within your data, drawing meaningful conclusions that address your research objectives.

Step 7: Write the Thesis

Outline your thesis structure, including sections such as the introduction , literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Begin writing each section, starting with the areas you feel most comfortable with and revising as you progress. Maintain consistency and coherence throughout your thesis, using transitions to connect ideas and ensure a logical flow between sections. Properly cite your sources according to the citation style specified by your institution, and seek feedback from peers or advisors as you draft and refine your thesis. Here is a guide on commonly used thesis structure IMRAD .

Step 8: Revise and Edit

Review your thesis for content, clarity, and coherence, ensuring that your arguments and analysis are well-developed and supported by evidence. Edit your writing for style, grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors, polishing your prose for clarity and readability. Check your formatting to ensure compliance with the guidelines provided by your institution, and make any necessary revisions based on feedback received from peers or advisors.

Step 9: Finalize and Submit

Incorporate any final revisions based on feedback and conduct a thorough proofreading to catch any remaining errors. Once you are satisfied with the quality of your thesis, follow the submission guidelines provided by your department or university to submit your final document. Ensure that all required documentation and paperwork are completed accurately and submitted by the specified deadline.

Step 10: Defend Your Thesis (if required)

If your program requires a thesis defense , prepare a comprehensive presentation summarizing your research findings, methodology, and conclusions. Anticipate potential questions from your thesis committee or examiners and prepare thoughtful responses. Approach your defense with confidence, presenting your research with clarity and professionalism, and engaging in constructive dialogue with your audience.

Tips to Write a Good Thesis:

Choose a Relevant and Interesting Topic: Select a topic that aligns with your interests, expertise, and career goals. Ensure that it is also relevant to your field of study and has the potential to contribute new insights or address existing gaps in knowledge.

Narrow Down Your Focus: Refine your research question to ensure that it is specific and manageable. Avoid overly broad topics that may be difficult to address comprehensively within the scope of your thesis.

Conduct Thorough Research: Take the time to gather a diverse range of sources, including academic journals, books, and reputable websites. Engage critically with existing literature to develop a solid understanding of the subject matter and identify key debates or areas for further exploration.

Create a Clear Thesis Statement: Craft a concise and arguable thesis statement that articulates the main argument or central claim of your thesis. Your thesis statement should provide a roadmap for your research and guide the structure of your paper.

Develop a Logical Structure: Organize your thesis into coherent sections, such as introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Ensure that each section flows logically and contributes to the overall coherence and persuasiveness of your argument.

Use Evidence to Support Your Claims: Support your arguments with empirical evidence, data, and examples drawn from your research. Be sure to critically evaluate the quality and relevance of the evidence you use to ensure its credibility and reliability.

Engage with Counterarguments: Acknowledge and address counterarguments or alternative perspectives within your thesis. Demonstrating an awareness of opposing viewpoints can strengthen your argument and demonstrate your ability to think critically and analytically.

Write Clearly and Concisely: Strive for clarity and precision in your writing, avoiding unnecessary jargon or overly complex language. Use clear and straightforward prose to communicate your ideas effectively to your readers.

Revise and Edit: Take the time to revise and edit your thesis carefully, paying attention to both content and style. Check for logical coherence, clarity of expression, grammatical accuracy, and adherence to formatting guidelines.

Seek Feedback: Don’t hesitate to seek feedback from your advisor, peers, or other trusted mentors throughout the writing process. Constructive feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your argument and writing style.

Stay Organized and Manage Your Time Effectively: Break down the writing process into manageable tasks and set realistic deadlines for each stage of your thesis. Stay organized by keeping track of your research notes, drafts, and references to ensure that you stay on track and meet your deadlines.

Take Care of Your Well-being: Writing a thesis can be a demanding and stressful process, so it’s essential to prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Take regular breaks, get plenty of rest, and seek support from friends, family, or counseling services if needed.

By following these tips and staying focused and disciplined, you can write a strong and compelling thesis that demonstrates your expertise, critical thinking skills, and scholarly contribution to your field of study.

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Creating a strong thesis for a research paper can be tough for researchers and scholars. Despite their expertise, condensing complex ideas into a clear thesis statement is a common struggle.

This concise element encapsulates the core arguments or points of the piece. Notably, a thesis statement serves various roles, prominently addressing the research question.

This guide offers a step-by-step approach for researchers and scholars to learn thesis writing. From choosing a solid topic to balancing academic standards, each step aims to empower you in creating a thesis that meets scholarly criteria and resonates widely.

This guide ensures you develop a strong thesis, making your research paper stand out in academic circles.

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What is a Thesis Statement?

A thesis statement is a concise sentence that presents the main point or argument of a research paper or an essay. 

According to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Writing Center , a thesis statement is defined as, "a concise, declarative statement that encapsulates the central argument or main point of an academic paper or essay. It serves as a guidepost for the reader, outlining the focus and direction of the piece"  

In a standard academic essay writing or research paper , the thesis statement is typically placed at the end of the introduction. It serves as a roadmap for the reader, providing a concise summary of the main point or argument that the paper will explore.

The structure of an introduction often follows a general pattern:

• Hook/Attention Grabber
• Background Information/Context
• Thesis Statement

There is no strict rule regarding the length of a thesis statement, as it can vary depending on the complexity of the topic and the scope of the paper. However, as a general guideline, a thesis statement is typically one or two sentences long. 

Qualities of a Good Thesis Statement

A strong thesis statement possesses several key qualities that contribute to its effectiveness:

• Clarity and Precision : Clearly conveys the main idea without unnecessary complexity, avoiding vague language.
• Debatable and Focused : Presents a claim open to interpretation, requiring support and evidence, and maintains a narrow focus.
• Assertive and Defensible: Takes a clear position, avoiding indecisiveness, and is defensible through logical reasoning and evidence.
• Relevance to the Topic : Directly relates to the subject matter, avoiding irrelevant or off-topic statements.
• Scope Limitation : Defines the paper's scope, avoiding broad, sweeping statements to maintain focus.
• Analytical and Thought-Provoking : Goes beyond stating facts, presenting an argument that requires analysis and thought, encouraging consideration of multiple perspectives.
• Coherent and Well-Structured : Well-crafted with a logical structure, serving as a roadmap to guide the reader through the main points of the research paper.

How To Write a Thesis Statement in 5 Steps 

Writing a thesis statement involves several key steps to ensure that it is clear, concise, and effectively conveys the main idea of your essay or research paper. Here's a guide with steps and examples:

Step 1. Understand the Assignment

Before diving into writing a thesis statement, thoroughly understand the assignment's requirements, including the topic, length, and specific guidelines provided by your instructor or the prompt.

Step 2. Narrow Down Your Topic

Choose a specific aspect or angle within your broader research paper topic that you can effectively address in your paper. This helps in focusing your research and drafting a more precise thesis.

Example : If your original topic is "Global warming," narrow it down to "The impact of deforestation on global warming."

Step 3. Conduct Research

Gather relevant information and find sources to support your thesis. A well-researched thesis is more likely to be compelling and convincing.

Example : Find studies, scientific articles, or statistics that demonstrate the connection between deforestation and increased carbon emissions.

Step 4. Identify Your Position or Claim

Determine your stance on the narrowed topic. What is the main argument or point you want to make?

Example : Decide that your position is that "Deforestation contributes significantly to the acceleration of global warming."

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Step 5. Craft a Concise Thesis Statement

Summarize your main argument in a clear, specific, and concise sentence. This will be the central point around which your entire paper revolves.

Example : "The rampant deforestation observed globally is a primary driver of increased carbon emissions, leading to a substantial acceleration of global warming."

Step 6. Make It Arguable

Ensure that your thesis statement is debatable. Avoid stating facts that everyone would agree with; instead, present a claim that invites discussion.

Example : "While some argue that deforestation has minimal impact on global warming, the overwhelming evidence supports the assertion that it plays a significant role."

Step 7. Consider Counterarguments

Anticipate potential counterarguments and address them within your thesis. This shows that you've considered different perspectives and strengthens your overall position.

Example : "While some contend that other factors contribute to global warming, the undeniable link between deforestation and increased carbon emissions cannot be ignored."

Step 8. Ensure Clarity and Specificity

Avoid vague language and make sure your thesis clearly communicates the main point of your paper. Provide enough detail to guide your reader.

Example : "Deforestation's impact on global warming is a complex issue that demands immediate attention."

Step 9. Review and Revise

Critically evaluate your thesis for clarity, relevance, and strength. Revise as needed to ensure it encapsulates your main argument effectively.

The final thesis statement may look like this: 

Types of Thesis Statements

Thesis statements serve as the core of a research paper, providing the main argument or purpose of the work. Here are a few types of thesis statements with examples:

Argumentative Thesis Statement

Argumentative thesis statements assert a specific stance on an issue and provide reasons or evidence to support that viewpoint. They aim to persuade the reader of a particular perspective.

Here is a thesis statement example for argumentative essay :

Analytical Thesis Statement

Analytical thesis statements break down a topic into its constituent parts, examining it critically to understand its components or significance. They don't argue a point but rather analyze and interpret.

Expository Thesis Statement

Expository thesis statements present factual information or explain a topic without expressing opinions or arguments. They aim to inform and elucidate.

Comparative Thesis Statement

Comparative thesis statements highlight similarities and differences between two or more subjects, offering an evaluation or analysis of their relationship.

Cause and Effect Thesis Statement

Cause and effect thesis statements outline the relationship between events or phenomena, indicating how one factor influences another and the resulting consequences.

Research Paper Thesis Template

A useful guideline for creating a thesis statement is to follow a three-part structure that includes the topic, the main point or claim, and the supporting reasons or evidence. This formula can be expressed as:

Topic + Claim + Reasons/Evidence

Here's a breakdown of each component:

Follow the steps above and use this research paper thesis statement template to develop a useful thesis. 

Thesis For a Research Paper Examples

Here are a few thesis statement examples for research papers:

Research Paper Thesis Examples

Thesis For a Research Paper Middle School

College thesis statement examples, thesis for a research report, thesis statement for a research paper in apa format.

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Thesis For a History Research Paper

Thesis statements for personal essays, examples of weak and strong thesis statements.

Here's a table with examples of weak and strong thesis statements across three different subjects:

Tips for Writing Strong Thesis Statements

Here are some tips for developing strong thesis statements:

• Challenge conventional wisdom or commonly held beliefs in your thesis.
• Use powerful and vivid words to evoke emotions or curiosity in your thesis.
• Introduce a fresh perspective or angle that hasn't been widely discussed.
• Offer a glimpse into potential solutions or broader implications of your thesis.
• Pose a thought-provoking question or a startling fact to engage the reader.
• Highlight the contemporary relevance or timeliness of your thesis statement.
• Appeal to the reader's emotions or personal experiences to make a connection.
• Emphasize the importance of exploring contradictions or complexities in your topic.
• Encourage the reader to contemplate the deeper implications of your thesis.
• Highlight how your thesis reflects personal growth or a change in perspective over time.

Thesis Statement Assessment Checklist

So, you may be wondering, how do I know if my thesis is strong? Use the checklist below to assess the strength of your thesis statement:

Summit it Up!

Crafting a strong thesis for a research paper involves precision, specificity, and a clear position. Remember to regularly revisit and refine your thesis as you progress through the writing process. 

If you find yourself struggling to formulate the perfect thesis statement, worry not! The professionals at CollegeEssay.org are here to provide expert assistance. 

Our professional writing service can guide you through the process, ensuring a compelling and impactful thesis statement. 

Get custom research paper  today and elevate the quality of your academic work.

Commonly Asked Questions

How does a research hypothesis differ from a thesis statement.

A research hypothesis is a specific, testable prediction about the outcome of a research study. On the other hand, a thesis statement is a broader statement summarizing the main argument of a paper.

Can a thesis statement change during the research process?

Yes, as you conduct research and refine your understanding of the topic, it's common for your thesis statement to evolve or be adjusted.

How does the thesis statement relate to the research methodology?

The thesis statement may hint at the research approach but focuses more on the main argument. The methodology is detailed separately in the research paper to explain how the study was conducted.

How do I choose the right tone for my thesis statement?

Tailor the tone to match the nature of your research. It can be analytical, argumentative, or explanatory, depending on the purpose and style of your paper.

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The Research and Writing Process: A Step-by-Step Guide: Write Your Thesis

• Understand the Assignment
• Choose a Topic
• Write Your Thesis
• Gather Sources
• Evaluate Those Sources
• Draft an Outline of Your Paper
• Begin Writing
• Proofread Your Paper
• Cite Your Sources
• Paraphrasing

Writing Your Thesis

• What is a thesis?
• Characteristics of a strong thesis
• Questions to get started
• More Resources

A thesis is the central idea of a piece of writing with the entire work developing and supporting the idea.   Though sometimes unstated, a thesis should always govern a paper.  It usually appears as a thesis statement somewhere in the paper, primarily in the opening paragraph.

What's the topic you want to write about?   What's your main opinion on this topic?   (Note: use the topic somewhere in this opinion statement and maybe the word "should") What's the strongest argument supporting your opinion?   What's a second good argument that supports your opinion?   What's the main argument against your opinion?   What's a possible title for your Essay?  

• Thesis Checklist

"Am I allowed to use AI?"

Use of Generative AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, Claude, Gemini, Perplexity, etc.) has increased exponentially since late 2022. But that doesn't mean these tools are always appropriate to use. It is your responsibility to know whether or not their use is allowed. Use of these tools if they are prohibited by your instructor constitutes a violation of SFCC's Academic Integrity Policy. Inclusion of GenAI tools in this guide does not indicate SFCC Library's endorsement of said tools.  

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• Last Updated: Dec 20, 2024 12:51 PM
• URL: https://libraryhelp.sfcc.edu/research-and-writing-process