dissertation format for mba

• The University of Warwick

MBA dissertation help: How to choose a topic, plan, and write your dissertation

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MBA dissertations and consultancy projects are the final modules on most MBA programmes . Our participants can opt for either a traditional dissertation (with a theoretical focus) or a hands-on project, which will see you consulting for a real organisation alongside a team of peers.  

Whether you choose a dissertation or consultancy project, you will still be required to submit a written exploration of a research question that is relevant to the world of business as part of the module. This guide offers MBA dissertation help that remains applicable whichever route you take on your Full-time MBA.

Read on to learn about the early stages of the process, choosing a topic, planning out your workload, and how to write an MBA dissertation or individual consulting report. Written by the MBA team here at Warwick Business School (WBS), this article also features some helpful first-hand advice from one of our MBA graduates, Kristen Rossi who studied our Full-time MBA.

An introduction to MBA dissertations and consultancy projects

Completing either an MBA dissertation or consultancy project is a requirement on Full-time MBA courses ; alternatively, participants at WBS can opt for an internship to satisfy the Capstone module .

Although this work will be completed towards the end of your programme, it’s worth getting ahead of the game. Given that your dissertation or project will contribute significantly towards your final result, we recommend learning about the requirements and how the process works even before you apply for an MBA.

As Full-time Warwick MBA graduate, Kristen Rossi, puts it: 

From the second the MBA started, there was talk of “The Project & Dissertation” – the part of the MBA that is worth the most credit, which will probably involve an outside company, and (gasp) that you will do alone!

Unless you take part in an internship in place of the module, your first port of call is to choose between an MBA dissertation or a consultancy project. Seem like a daunting decision to make? We’ve outlined the key points of difference to help you get off on the right track.

What is an MBA dissertation?

An MBA dissertation is an independent, yet supervised, research project. It is designed to demonstrate that you have assimilated your learning throughout the MBA course and that you can explore a business issue thoroughly, considering multiple perspectives on the subject.

The output from an MBA dissertation is a piece of written work that explores a research question relevant to the world of business. You could explore any one of a wide range of different topics as part of the dissertation, but your writing should have an academic focus with a strong grounding in theory and your own independent research.

At WBS, you may also choose to focus on Entrepreneurship as part of your MBA dissertation, which is a requirement if you choose the Entrepreneurship Specialism. This allows you to take a deep dive into a new business idea, tackle an existing issue, or use the opportunity to help launch your own venture.

What is a strategic consultancy project?

A strategic consultancy project provides you with hands-on experience of consulting on behalf of a real organisation and investigating a specific business challenge that it faces. Taking place for 10 to 12 weeks over the summer period, you’ll work alongside a group of your peers at the same organisation.

WBS participants can choose their own groups and, as Kristen comments, are given support in sourcing a project: 

The consultancy project and dissertation is usually supported by a client who has a topic or question that they would like to know more about. WBS provides specific, mandatory careers sessions dedicated to the consultancy project and dissertation.

The Business School has partnered with many global industry leaders as part of the consultancy projects, from Barclays to Sony and Microsoft. 

Once you’ve chosen a group and organisation, each participant selects their own distinct research question. The deliverable is then an individual consulting report addressing this question.

You can find out more about consultancy projects from Antonia in the film below:

The differences between an MBA dissertation and consultancy project

A consultancy project still requires you to produce an extended piece of written work in the form of your individual consulting report, but it differs from an MBA dissertation in a number of ways:

• A strategic consultancy project is hands-on, requiring you to engage with a business issue faced by a real organisation, whereas an MBA dissertation is more theoretical.
• The scope of the issue you explore as part of a project will typically be much narrower and more focused than a dissertation, which can investigate a much broader topic area.
• An MBA dissertation should aim to further the academic community’s understanding of a particular area of business; a consultancy project is geared towards solving a real-world business problem for a specific organisation or group of organisations.

How will a dissertation or project benefit you?

This final phase of your MBA course gives you the opportunity to explore a particular topic in great depth, enhancing your academic or practical understanding of an area of business. 

For many participants the dissertation or project is a formative experience that has a tangible impact on their future career paths, supporting their professional ambitions.

But don’t just take it from us. What does Kristen have to say?

“I can only speak for myself, but with the project and dissertation, I gained three things. Firstly, slightly superficial, I now have a fabulous new brand on my CV, Aston Martin Lagonda. 

“Secondly, through the interviews I conducted for my primary research I had the privilege to learn a lot about the luxury automotive sector, which I would otherwise have not had the opportunity to learn as much about. Writing to and setting up a conversation with the CMO of a major firm is made easier when you have WBS and the justification of a dissertation, and the information they share is priceless. 

“Thirdly, although tedious, I had the opportunity to deep-dive into a particular topic – marketing ROI best practices. This really helped me to understand the challenges and remedies of this topic in depth and will certainly help me as I make my career jump in the coming months.”

Choosing an MBA dissertation topic

Like many participants, you may feel nervous about the thought of choosing a suitable MBA dissertation topic. In reality, however, this is nothing to worry about.

As you progress through the early stages of your MBA programme, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself drawn to a particular area of study or type of business problem. The direction you take is also likely to be influenced by your pre-existing career goals and professional experience. 

On this point, Kristen recommends that you make the project work for you:

When choosing your client project and dissertation, try to focus on an industry and topic that you hope to transition into. If you are looking to move into finance, work on a project that will provide you with the knowledge to help you land the job!

It’s also worth noting that you’ll be given extensive support when it comes to picking a research question or sourcing a project. You’ll attend sessions dedicated to selecting the right topic in the run-up to the start of the dissertation or project module — and there is always additional help available at WBS.

How to write an MBA dissertation

Once you’ve chosen a topic for your MBA dissertation or project, your work on the module can begin in earnest.

As a Warwick Business School participant, you’ll be guided through the process from the outset. But if you’re still at the stage of wondering whether this is something you’d want to pursue in the first place, here’s a brief overview packed with MBA dissertation advice from one of our graduates.

Making contact with your supervisor

Kristen’s top tip for writing an MBA dissertation is not to wait to be assigned a supervisor:

“Once your project applications have been whittled down to interviews (early May for the Full-time MBA), look at the topics and seek out an academic in the school whose knowledge (and personality) you think would match the project and you. The sooner you do this the better.

“I had finalised my supervisor by the beginning of June and this head start was extremely beneficial. It allowed me to better project manage the different chapters of the dissertation and be more in control of the process.”

The planning phase

Delivering a successful MBA dissertation or consulting report is an exercise in sound project management; just one of the many ways in which it sets you up well for later working life. And it’s universally acknowledged that the best approach to take with any large-scale project is to break it down into bite-size chunks.

Kristen suggests seeking support to divide up the dissertation into smaller components, from the draft of your first chapter through to the final submission:

With the help of your supervisor, work backwards and set up a timeline to tackle each section of the dissertation. Include milestones where you will check-in with your supervisor (face-to-face is recommended) as well.

Preparing your literature review

The literature review is the all-important foundation of any dissertation – MBA-level or otherwise. 

Kristen’s experience speaks to the value of starting your research early and keeping a record of all the papers and publications you encounter along the way:

“Once you roughly know the topic of your project and dissertation, start researching. Do not wait until you have a supervisor or until your elective modules are finished. Start immediately! I recommend this for three reasons.

“Firstly, the initial articles you find will most likely not be the gems you hope them to be and it will take a lot of speed-reading and trial and error before you uncover the wisdom that will actually inform your research. 

“Secondly, once you find relevant research, it will take time to read it and most academic literature is not a page-turning detective novel (I can attest to falling asleep mid-read on several occasions). 

“Finally, I am a believer that to truly understand and process new material, you need time. Give yourself the time to read, step away and think, and come back to it. In the end, you will be grateful that you did.

Further to this point, when reading journal publications look at the references the author cites. Seek out these additional authors and their publications.”

Communicating with your client contact on a consulting project

Should you opt for a strategic consulting project, the way you manage the relationship with your client organisation is just as important as the write-up of the final report. Kristen offers this final piece of advice:

“If you are not going to their office, then from the beginning of your relationship set in place weekly 30-minute Skype sessions to keep the client up-to-date with what you are doing. This will allow you to build a relationship with them and will help you to address any hiccups along the way. 

“Sometimes after starting your research, you may find that the client’s initial request is too broad. This is okay, but you will need to bring it up and negotiate a more realistic deliverable. The weekly updates are also beneficial. As you research, you may find yourself going off in the wrong direction. Checking in with your client on a weekly basis will help you stay on track.”

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How to Write Dissertation for MBA: Step by Step Guide

• By Ethan Tremblay
• Academic Writing

What is an MBA dissertation, and why is a structured approach vital in writing it? This is the crux of the matter for any MBA student poised to showcase their academic understanding through this capstone project. A dissertation for MBA is a formal document that provides a detailed account of research on a particular topic within the business field. It represents the culmination of your learning process, demonstrating your ability to conduct independent research and present complex ideas in a clear and professional manner.

Adopting a structured approach is not just recommended; it’s essential. It ensures that your research is thorough, your arguments are coherent, and your findings are presented logically. This approach not only streamlines the writing process but also enhances the academic rigor of your work, making it more persuasive and credible to your readers.

Understanding the Requirements for Your MBA Dissertation

Embarking on an MBA program involves a significant milestone: the completion of your dissertation for MBA . This capstone project is not just a formality; it’s a rigorous academic endeavor that demonstrates your expertise and ability to contribute to the field of business administration. To ensure success, it’s crucial to fully comprehend the specific requirements and guidelines set forth by your institution.

• Begin by reviewing the institutional guidelines meticulously. These often include the expected structure, length, and formatting style for your dissertation.
• Understand the evaluation criteria . Knowing what the faculty will be looking for in your dissertation will guide your research and writing process.
• Consider the format requirements. Whether it’s APA, MLA, or another style, adherence to these guidelines is essential for a professional presentation of your work.

Each of these elements plays a pivotal role in the planning and execution of your dissertation. By mastering the requirements, you set a solid foundation for your research and ensure that the final product meets the expectations of your MBA program.

Choosing a Topic for Your MBA Dissertation: Ensuring Relevance and Manageability

Choosing a topic for your dissertation for MBA is a pivotal step in your academic journey. It sets the stage for research, determines the direction of your work, and can influence your post-MBA career path. To ensure you select a relevant and manageable topic, consider the following strategies:

• Align with Interests: Reflect on courses and discussions that sparked your curiosity. A topic that fascinates you will sustain motivation over the long haul.
• Industry Relevance: Choose a topic with practical implications for the business sector you aspire to join. This relevance can provide a valuable edge in the job market.
• Scope and Resources: Ensure the topic is narrow enough to explore in depth, yet broad enough to find sufficient resources and data.
• Faculty Guidance: Consult with your professors to leverage their expertise and gain insights on feasible topics.
• Originality: Aim for a topic that contributes new knowledge or perspectives to the field of business administration.

By considering these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to select a dissertation topic that not only meets academic criteria but also enriches your MBA experience and future career.

Conducting Research for Your MBA Dissertation: Best Practices

Best practices for research in your mba dissertation.

Conducting thorough and effective research is a cornerstone of any successful dissertation for MBA . To ensure that your research is up to par, consider the following best practices:

• Identify Clear Research Objectives: Begin by defining what you aim to discover or establish through your research. This will guide your methodology and help you stay focused.
• Choose the Right Research Methods: Quantitative methods involve statistical analysis, while qualitative methods focus on understanding the nuances of human behavior. Mixed methods combine both. Select the one that aligns with your objectives.
• Collect Data Ethically: Ensure that your data collection methods are ethical and that you have the necessary permissions. Anonymity and confidentiality should be maintained where required.
• Use Credible Sources: Whether you are conducting primary or secondary research, the credibility of your sources is paramount. Rely on peer-reviewed journals, reputable publications, and verified data.
• Maintain a Research Log: Keep a detailed record of your research activities. This log will be invaluable when you write your methodology chapter and need to justify your research choices.

By adhering to these practices, you’ll be able to conduct research that not only supports your dissertation but also contributes to the field of business administration.

Crafting a Detailed Outline for Your MBA Dissertation

Creating a robust outline is a pivotal step in the process of writing a dissertation for MBA . An effective outline serves as a roadmap, guiding you through the complex journey of your research. It ensures that your dissertation has a clear structure and that each section logically follows the previous one. To begin, include an introduction that sets the stage for your research question and objectives. Following this, outline a literature review section where you will discuss key theories and existing research relevant to your topic.

• Methodology: Detail the research methods you will use to gather and analyze data.
• Results: Plan for a section where you will present your findings.
• Discussion: Describe how you will interpret the results, linking them back to your research question.
• Conclusion: Summarize your research and discuss its implications, limitations, and suggestions for future research.

Remember to include a section for references and appendices, if necessary. Each section should be broken down into sub-sections with bullet points that highlight the main points you plan to cover. This level of detail will help you stay organized and focused as you write your dissertation for MBA .

Effective Writing Strategies for Your MBA Dissertation

Embarking on the writing phase of your dissertation for MBA can be daunting, but with the right strategies, you can craft a compelling and coherent document. Begin by understanding the structure of a typical MBA dissertation, which includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, findings, discussion, and conclusion. Each section has a unique purpose and requires a specific approach to writing.

For the introduction , set the stage for your research with a clear thesis statement and outline the objectives of your study. The literature review should critically evaluate previous research and establish a framework for your work. In the methodology section, describe your research methods and justify your choices. Present your data in the findings section, followed by the discussion , where you interpret the results in the context of your research question. Finally, the conclusion should summarize your findings and suggest implications or recommendations for practice and future research.

Academic writing demands clarity and precision. Use a formal tone and avoid colloquialisms. Ensure that your argument flows logically from one section to the next, linking back to your research question and objectives. To maintain this coherence, create a detailed outline before you start writing and refer to it often. Additionally, support your arguments with evidence from your research or the literature, and cite your sources appropriately.

Remember, writing is a process that includes drafting, revising, and refining. Don’t expect to write a perfect first draft. Instead, give yourself the time to revise and improve your work. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism.

Editing and Proofreading Your MBA Dissertation: Ensuring Excellence

After the rigorous process of writing your dissertation for MBA , the editing and proofreading stages are crucial for ensuring clarity, coherence, and academic integrity. To approach these final steps effectively, consider the following strategies:

• Take a Break: Distance yourself from your work for a few days to return with fresh eyes.
• Read Aloud: Hearing your text can help catch errors that you might overlook when reading silently.
• Structure and Content: Review each section for logical flow and relevance to your research question.
• Grammar and Spelling: Utilize software tools, but also manually check for mistakes that technology may miss.
• Consistency: Ensure consistent use of terms, definitions, and formatting throughout your document.
• Feedback: Seek input from peers or advisors, as they may notice issues you’ve become blind to.
• Professional Services: Consider hiring a professional editor, especially if English is not your first language.

Remember, a well-edited dissertation for MBA reflects your attention to detail and dedication to scholarly excellence. It’s not just about correcting typos; it’s about refining your argument to make a compelling and professional presentation of your research.

Concluding Your Dissertation for MBA: A Recap of Your Journey

As we reach the culmination of our guide on how to write a dissertation for MBA , it’s crucial to reflect on the journey you’ve undertaken. From grasping the intricate requirements to selecting a compelling topic, conducting thorough research, and meticulously crafting your outline, each step has been a building block towards creating a substantial piece of academic work.

Your dedication to writing the dissertation demonstrates your commitment to your MBA and your future career. Remember, the skills you’ve honed during this process—critical thinking, data analysis, and coherent writing—will serve you well beyond the confines of academia.

As you finalize your dissertation, take pride in your accomplishment. This step-by-step approach has not only provided you with a structured path but also instilled a sense of discipline that will benefit you in various professional scenarios.

May this guide serve as a beacon, illuminating your path to academic and professional success. Good luck!

Ethan Tremblay

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Unicaf: Master of Business Administration (MBA): Dissertation

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Welcome to your Dissertation  Reading and Resource List. Here you will find your essential and recommended reading, as well as suggested Journals and Online Resources. 

Please be advised that not all of your essential and recommended reading is available through the University of Suffolk. 

Essential Reading

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• Formatting Your Dissertation
• Introduction

Harvard Griffin GSAS strives to provide students with timely, accurate, and clear information. If you need help understanding a specific policy, please contact the office that administers that policy.

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On this page:

Language of the Dissertation

Page and text requirements, body of text, tables, figures, and captions, dissertation acceptance certificate, copyright statement.

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When preparing the dissertation for submission, students must follow strict formatting requirements. Any deviation from these requirements may lead to rejection of the dissertation and delay in the conferral of the degree.

The language of the dissertation is ordinarily English, although some departments whose subject matter involves foreign languages may accept a dissertation written in a language other than English.

Most dissertations are 100 to 300 pages in length. All dissertations should be divided into appropriate sections, and long dissertations may need chapters, main divisions, and subdivisions.

• 8½ x 11 inches, unless a musical score is included
• At least 1 inch for all margins
• Body of text: double spacing
• Block quotations, footnotes, and bibliographies: single spacing within each entry but double spacing between each entry
• Table of contents, list of tables, list of figures or illustrations, and lengthy tables: single spacing may be used

Fonts and Point Size

Use 10-12 point size. Fonts must be embedded in the PDF file to ensure all characters display correctly. 

Recommended Fonts

If you are unsure whether your chosen font will display correctly, use one of the following fonts: 

If fonts are not embedded, non-English characters may not appear as intended. Fonts embedded improperly will be published to DASH as-is. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure that fonts are embedded properly prior to submission. 

Instructions for Embedding Fonts

To embed your fonts in recent versions of Word, follow these instructions from Microsoft:

• Click the File tab and then click Options .
• In the left column, select the Save tab.
• Clear the Do not embed common system fonts check box.

For reference, below are some instructions from ProQuest UMI for embedding fonts in older file formats:

To embed your fonts in Microsoft Word 2010:

• In the File pull-down menu click on Options .
• Choose Save on the left sidebar.
• Check the box next to Embed fonts in the file.
• Click the OK button.
• Save the document.

Note that when saving as a PDF, make sure to go to “more options” and save as “PDF/A compliant”

To embed your fonts in Microsoft Word 2007:

• Click the circular Office button in the upper left corner of Microsoft Word.
• A new window will display. In the bottom right corner select Word Options . 
• Choose Save from the left sidebar.

Using Microsoft Word on a Mac:

Microsoft Word 2008 on a Mac OS X computer will automatically embed your fonts while converting your document to a PDF file.

If you are converting to PDF using Acrobat Professional (instructions courtesy of the Graduate Thesis Office at Iowa State University):  

• Open your document in Microsoft Word. 
• Click on the Adobe PDF tab at the top. Select "Change Conversion Settings." 
• Click on Advanced Settings. 
• Click on the Fonts folder on the left side of the new window. In the lower box on the right, delete any fonts that appear in the "Never Embed" box. Then click "OK." 
• If prompted to save these new settings, save them as "Embed all fonts." 
• Now the Change Conversion Settings window should show "embed all fonts" in the Conversion Settings drop-down list and it should be selected. Click "OK" again. 
• Click on the Adobe PDF link at the top again. This time select Convert to Adobe PDF. Depending on the size of your document and the speed of your computer, this process can take 1-15 minutes. 
• After your document is converted, select the "File" tab at the top of the page. Then select "Document Properties." 
• Click on the "Fonts" tab. Carefully check all of your fonts. They should all show "(Embedded Subset)" after the font name. 
•  If you see "(Embedded Subset)" after all fonts, you have succeeded.

The font used in the body of the text must also be used in headers, page numbers, and footnotes. Exceptions are made only for tables and figures created with different software and inserted into the document.

Tables and figures must be placed as close as possible to their first mention in the text. They may be placed on a page with no text above or below, or they may be placed directly into the text. If a table or a figure is alone on a page (with no narrative), it should be centered within the margins on the page. Tables may take up more than one page as long as they obey all rules about margins. Tables and figures referred to in the text may not be placed at the end of the chapter or at the end of the dissertation.

• Given the standards of the discipline, dissertations in the Department of History of Art and Architecture and the Department of Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Urban Planning often place illustrations at the end of the dissertation.

Figure and table numbering must be continuous throughout the dissertation or by chapter (e.g., 1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2, etc.). Two figures or tables cannot be designated with the same number. If you have repeating images that you need to cite more than once, label them with their number and A, B, etc. 

Headings should be placed at the top of tables. While no specific rules for the format of table headings and figure captions are required, a consistent format must be used throughout the dissertation (contact your department for style manuals appropriate to the field).

Captions should appear at the bottom of any figures. If the figure takes up the entire page, the caption should be placed alone on the preceding page, centered vertically and horizontally within the margins.

Each page receives a separate page number. When a figure or table title is on a preceding page, the second and subsequent pages of the figure or table should say, for example, “Figure 5 (Continued).” In such an instance, the list of figures or tables will list the page number containing the title. The word “figure” should be written in full (not abbreviated), and the “F” should be capitalized (e.g., Figure 5). In instances where the caption continues on a second page, the “(Continued)” notation should appear on the second and any subsequent page. The figure/table and the caption are viewed as one entity and the numbering should show correlation between all pages. Each page must include a header.

Landscape orientation figures and tables must be positioned correctly and bound at the top so that the top of the figure or table will be at the left margin. Figure and table headings/captions are placed with the same orientation as the figure or table when on the same page. When on a separate page, headings/captions are always placed in portrait orientation, regardless of the orientation of the figure or table. Page numbers are always placed as if the figure were vertical on the page.

If a graphic artist does the figures, Harvard Griffin GSAS will accept lettering done by the artist only within the figure. Figures done with software are acceptable if the figures are clear and legible. Legends and titles done by the same process as the figures will be accepted if they too are clear, legible, and run at least 10 or 12 characters per inch. Otherwise, legends and captions should be printed with the same font used in the text.

Original illustrations, photographs, and fine arts prints may be scanned and included, centered between the margins on a page with no text above or below.

Use of Third-Party Content

In addition to the student's own writing, dissertations often contain third-party content or in-copyright content owned by parties other than you, the student who authored the dissertation. The Office for Scholarly Communication recommends consulting the information below about fair use, which allows individuals to use in-copyright content, on a limited basis and for specific purposes, without seeking permission from copyright holders.

Because your dissertation will be made available for online distribution through DASH , Harvard's open-access repository, it is important that any third-party content in it may be made available in this way.

Fair Use and Copyright 

What is fair use?

Fair use is a provision in copyright law that allows the use of a certain amount of copyrighted material without seeking permission. Fair use is format- and media-agnostic. This means fair use may apply to images (including photographs, illustrations, and paintings), quoting at length from literature, videos, and music regardless of the format. 

How do I determine whether my use of an image or other third-party content in my dissertation is fair use?  

There are four factors you will need to consider when making a fair use claim.

1) For what purpose is your work going to be used?

• Nonprofit, educational, scholarly, or research use favors fair use. Commercial, non-educational uses, often do not favor fair use.
• A transformative use (repurposing or recontextualizing the in-copyright material) favors fair use. Examining, analyzing, and explicating the material in a meaningful way, so as to enhance a reader's understanding, strengthens your fair use argument. In other words, can you make the point in the thesis without using, for instance, an in-copyright image? Is that image necessary to your dissertation? If not, perhaps, for copyright reasons, you should not include the image.  

2) What is the nature of the work to be used?

• Published, fact-based content favors fair use and includes scholarly analysis in published academic venues. 
• Creative works, including artistic images, are afforded more protection under copyright, and depending on your use in light of the other factors, may be less likely to favor fair use; however, this does not preclude considerations of fair use for creative content altogether.

3) How much of the work is going to be used?  

• Small, or less significant, amounts favor fair use. A good rule of thumb is to use only as much of the in-copyright content as necessary to serve your purpose. Can you use a thumbnail rather than a full-resolution image? Can you use a black-and-white photo instead of color? Can you quote select passages instead of including several pages of the content? These simple changes bolster your fair use of the material.

4) What potential effect on the market for that work may your use have?

• If there is a market for licensing this exact use or type of educational material, then this weighs against fair use. If however, there would likely be no effect on the potential commercial market, or if it is not possible to obtain permission to use the work, then this favors fair use. 

For further assistance with fair use, consult the Office for Scholarly Communication's guide, Fair Use: Made for the Harvard Community and the Office of the General Counsel's Copyright and Fair Use: A Guide for the Harvard Community .

What are my options if I don’t have a strong fair use claim? 

Consider the following options if you find you cannot reasonably make a fair use claim for the content you wish to incorporate:

• Seek permission from the copyright holder. 
• Use openly licensed content as an alternative to the original third-party content you intended to use. Openly-licensed content grants permission up-front for reuse of in-copyright content, provided your use meets the terms of the open license.
• Use content in the public domain, as this content is not in-copyright and is therefore free of all copyright restrictions. Whereas third-party content is owned by parties other than you, no one owns content in the public domain; everyone, therefore, has the right to use it.

For use of images in your dissertation, please consult this guide to Finding Public Domain & Creative Commons Media , which is a great resource for finding images without copyright restrictions. 

Who can help me with questions about copyright and fair use?

Contact your Copyright First Responder . Please note, Copyright First Responders assist with questions concerning copyright and fair use, but do not assist with the process of obtaining permission from copyright holders.

Pages should be assigned a number except for the Dissertation Acceptance Certificate . Preliminary pages (abstract, table of contents, list of tables, graphs, illustrations, and preface) should use small Roman numerals (i, ii, iii, iv, v, etc.). All pages must contain text or images.  

Count the title page as page i and the copyright page as page ii, but do not print page numbers on either page .

For the body of text, use Arabic numbers (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc.) starting with page 1 on the first page of text. Page numbers must be centered throughout the manuscript at the top or bottom. Every numbered page must be consecutively ordered, including tables, graphs, illustrations, and bibliography/index (if included); letter suffixes (such as 10a, 10b, etc.) are not allowed. It is customary not to have a page number on the page containing a chapter heading.

• Check pagination carefully. Account for all pages.

A copy of the Dissertation Acceptance Certificate (DAC) should appear as the first page. This page should not be counted or numbered. The DAC will appear in the online version of the published dissertation. The author name and date on the DAC and title page should be the same. 

The dissertation begins with the title page; the title should be as concise as possible and should provide an accurate description of the dissertation. The author name and date on the DAC and title page should be the same. 

• Do not print a page number on the title page. It is understood to be page  i  for counting purposes only.

A copyright notice should appear on a separate page immediately following the title page and include the copyright symbol ©, the year of first publication of the work, and the name of the author:

© [ year ] [ Author’s Name ] All rights reserved.

Alternatively, students may choose to license their work openly under a  Creative Commons  license. The author remains the copyright holder while at the same time granting up-front permission to others to read, share, and (depending on the license) adapt the work, so long as proper attribution is given. (By default, under copyright law, the author reserves all rights; under a Creative Commons license, the author reserves some rights.)

• Do  not  print a page number on the copyright page. It is understood to be page  ii  for counting purposes only.

An abstract, numbered as page  iii , should immediately follow the copyright page and should state the problem, describe the methods and procedures used, and give the main results or conclusions of the research. The abstract will appear in the online and bound versions of the dissertation and will be published by ProQuest. There is no maximum word count for the abstract. 

• double-spaced
• left-justified
• indented on the first line of each paragraph
• The author’s name, right justified
• The words “Dissertation Advisor:” followed by the advisor’s name, left-justified (a maximum of two advisors is allowed)
• Title of the dissertation, centered, several lines below author and advisor

Dissertations divided into sections must contain a table of contents that lists, at minimum, the major headings in the following order:

• Front Matter
• Body of Text
• Back Matter

Front matter includes (if applicable):

• acknowledgements of help or encouragement from individuals or institutions
• a dedication
• a list of illustrations or tables
• a glossary of terms
• one or more epigraphs.

Back matter includes (if applicable):

• bibliography
• supplemental materials, including figures and tables
• an index (in rare instances).

Supplemental figures and tables must be placed at the end of the dissertation in an appendix, not within or at the end of a chapter. If additional digital information (including audio, video, image, or datasets) will accompany the main body of the dissertation, it should be uploaded as a supplemental file through ProQuest ETD . Supplemental material will be available in DASH and ProQuest and preserved digitally in the Harvard University Archives.

As a matter of copyright, dissertations comprising the student's previously published works must be authorized for distribution from DASH. The guidelines in this section pertain to any previously published material that requires permission from publishers or other rightsholders before it may be distributed from DASH. Please note:

• Authors whose publishing agreements grant the publisher exclusive rights to display, distribute, and create derivative works will need to seek the publisher's permission for nonexclusive use of the underlying works before the dissertation may be distributed from DASH.
• Authors whose publishing agreements indicate the authors have retained the relevant nonexclusive rights to the original materials for display, distribution, and the creation of derivative works may distribute the dissertation as a whole from DASH without need for further permissions.

It is recommended that authors consult their publishing agreements directly to determine whether and to what extent they may have transferred exclusive rights under copyright. The Office for Scholarly Communication (OSC) is available to help the author determine whether she has retained the necessary rights or requires permission. Please note, however, the Office of Scholarly Communication is not able to assist with the permissions process itself.

• Missing Dissertation Acceptance Certificate.  The first page of the PDF dissertation file should be a scanned copy of the Dissertation Acceptance Certificate (DAC). This page should not be counted or numbered as a part of the dissertation pagination.
• Conflicts Between the DAC and the Title Page.  The DAC and the dissertation title page must match exactly, meaning that the author name and the title on the title page must match that on the DAC. If you use your full middle name or just an initial on one document, it must be the same on the other document.  
• Abstract Formatting Errors. The advisor name should be left-justified, and the author's name should be right-justified. Up to two advisor names are allowed. The Abstract should be double spaced and include the page title “Abstract,” as well as the page number “iii.” There is no maximum word count for the abstract. 
•  The front matter should be numbered using Roman numerals (iii, iv, v, …). The title page and the copyright page should be counted but not numbered. The first printed page number should appear on the Abstract page (iii). 
• The body of the dissertation should be numbered using Arabic numbers (1, 2, 3, …). The first page of the body of the text should begin with page 1. Pagination may not continue from the front matter. 
• All page numbers should be centered either at the top or the bottom of the page.
• Figures and tables Figures and tables must be placed within the text, as close to their first mention as possible. Figures and tables that span more than one page must be labeled on each page. Any second and subsequent page of the figure/table must include the “(Continued)” notation. This applies to figure captions as well as images. Each page of a figure/table must be accounted for and appropriately labeled. All figures/tables must have a unique number. They may not repeat within the dissertation.
• Any figures/tables placed in a horizontal orientation must be placed with the top of the figure/ table on the left-hand side. The top of the figure/table should be aligned with the spine of the dissertation when it is bound. 
• Page numbers must be placed in the same location on all pages of the dissertation, centered, at the bottom or top of the page. Page numbers may not appear under the table/ figure.
• Supplemental Figures and Tables. Supplemental figures and tables must be placed at the back of the dissertation in an appendix. They should not be placed at the back of the chapter. 
• Permission Letters Copyright. permission letters must be uploaded as a supplemental file, titled ‘do_not_publish_permission_letters,” within the dissertation submission tool.
•  DAC Attachment. The signed Dissertation Acceptance Certificate must additionally be uploaded as a document in the "Administrative Documents" section when submitting in Proquest ETD . Dissertation submission is not complete until all documents have been received and accepted.
• Overall Formatting. The entire document should be checked after all revisions, and before submitting online, to spot any inconsistencies or PDF conversion glitches.
• You can view dissertations successfully published from your department in DASH . This is a great place to check for specific formatting and area-specific conventions.
• Contact the  Office of Student Affairs  with further questions.

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200+ Subject-Wise MBA Dissertation Topics to Check Out This Year

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Feeling the dissertation pressure mounting? Don't let writer's block turn your thesis into a 'to-do' list!  Here’s a list of 200+ MBA dissertation topics that go beyond the usual suspects.  From unique tech trends to the future of sustainability, we've got ideas to start your research passion and impress the professors. So, forget the generic, and let's craft MBA dissertation ideas that make your thesis stand out!

3 Key Considerations when Selecting MBA Dissertation Topics

Picking an MBA dissertation idea isn't everyone's favourite task, but knowing how to select the best MBA research topics is crucial. Three key things to remember when searching for MBA dissertation ideas are:

1. Choosing Unique MBA Dissertation Topics

Selecting MBA dissertation ideas may seem daunting, but don't fret if they've been explored before. The key lies in infusing your unique perspective into existing topics. Be innovative in your research approach to stand out.

2. Ensuring Availability of Secondary Data

Avoid last-minute topic changes by ensuring ample secondary data for your chosen MBA thesis topics. Don't delay the search for secondary data; confirm its availability during topic selection to streamline your research process.

3. Inculcating Quantitative Study

While textual analysis is appealing, integrating quantitative study enhances the depth of your MBA thesis topics. Numbers provide credibility and engage readers effectively. Strike a balance between theory and numerical analysis for impactful research.

Pursuing an MBA will help you advance your career in the business world. Many of the top universities and colleges in the world offer MBA programs in various fields. 

Subject-Wise Best Research Topics for MBA Students

The possibilities for MBA thesis topics are vast, covering all facets of business administration. To narrow down options, consider various subjects. Despite constraints, here's a list of excellent research topics for MBA students for your research and exploration.

Accounting 

1. Investigating the influence of industry and public knowledge on market share index fluctuations

2. Assessing the significance of auditing for large corporations

3. Analysing the country’s tax scheme

4. Factors to consider when investing in financial markets

5. Evaluating risk-taking in companies from an accounting perspective

6. Providing recommendations for circular debt management in business firms

7. Exploring the differences and similarities between external and internal auditors

8. Examining the challenges faced by external audits due to equal value calculations

9. Analysing taxation as a human rights policy and supporting it with evidence

10. Understanding the impact of the current tax structure on lower-income individuals

Operations Management Dissertation Topics

1. Defining the concept of ‘Legality’ in supply chain design

2. Exploring the role of virtual supply chains in facilitating short-term business collaborations

3. Assessing the feasibility and effectiveness of self-driving cars in supply chain management

4. Impact of big data analytics on efficient inventory management

5. Significance of RFID in Toyota's inventory management

6. E-commerce inventory management strategies

7. Production scheduling strategies in manufacturing environments

8. Production scheduling strategies in the automobile industry

9. Case study: Toyota's production scheduling strategies in the UK

10. Utilising AI for quality control: A case study of Amazon.com

Business Management Dissertation Topics

1. Strategies for supporting gender equity in traditionally male-dominated industries

2. Impact of management's socio-cultural background on leadership relationships

3. The effect of employment benefits on employee and company productivity

4. Adaptation of small business strategies to globalisation

5. Role of feedback in cultural shifts within multinational corporations

6. Assessing team performance in multinational corporations

7. Examining small business strategies in the context of globalisation

8. Analysing team performance in multinational corporations

9. Human resource management and policies in non-profit organisations

10. Role of foreign direct investment in the economy of developing countries

Finance Dissertation Topics

1. Exploring the swift expansion of international microfinance

2. Investigating the growth of microfinance within the UK banking sector

3. Analysing the impact of microfinance on emerging economies

4. Assessing the role of credit and financial services in investment

5. Examining microfinance's contribution to poverty alleviation and economic growth

6. Contrasting FDI strategies between Europe and Asia

7. Studying emerging market stock synchronicity and analyst coverage

8. Evaluating the influence of foreign direct investment on developing nations

9. Assessing the effects of European financial regulations on cross-border investments

10. Scrutinising ongoing banking sector reforms in emerging economies: the Brazilian case

We also have a list of different finance dissertation topics in brief. You can also check out these topics for more information.

Marketing Dissertation Topics

1. Evaluating the significance of personalization in digital relationship marketing during the COVID-19 era

2. A case study on UK fitness brands building customer loyalty through high-value content

3. Analysing obstacles facing Tesco’s loyalty card scheme in today's market dynamics

4. Leveraging social media for customer acquisition through relationship marketing

5. Investigating the impact of product quality on consumer satisfaction

6. Assessing consumer understanding of brand values through a Starbucks vs. McDonald’s case study

7. Using digital methods to enhance brand salience: a case study approach

8. Exploring the impact of product availability on SME brand image

9. Transitioning a brand's reputation across industries: lessons from Virgin Cola

10. Assessing beauty brands' direct marketing efficacy using YouTube

Information Technology Management Dissertation Topics

1. Predicting the future impact of information technology on global business

2. Assessing the pace of technological advancement in meeting global financial system demands

3. Analysing the impact of the Sony hack on international market transactions

4. Exploring how technological advancements enhance global trade

5. Investigating the influence of religion on IT adoption in Yemeni universities

6. Assessing the impact of mobile technology on international students in British universities

7. Examining online discussions' role in promoting interaction and collaboration in blended learning environments

8. Applying instructional techniques to improve problem-solving abilities

9. Evaluating the effectiveness of automated tools in literature reviews for students

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Strategic Risk Management Dissertation Topics

1. Exploring the Influence of Current Global Supply Chain Trends on Risk Management Strategies

2. Investigating Social Risks' Impact on Multinational Corporations and Shareholder Value

3. Assessing Liquidity and Credit Risk Management in Financial Markets

4. Best Practices in Operational Risk Management for Warehousing

5. Comparative Analysis of Risk Management in Financial Sectors

7. Critical Factors for Operational Management Success in Financial Services

8. Analysis and Mitigation of Social Risks

9. Overcoming Obstacles in Operational Risk Management

10. Utilising Risk Assessment to Manage Medical Errors

11. Long-term Risk Management in the Banking Sector

Entrepreneurship Dissertation Topics

1. Consequences of Chronic Unemployment in Major Economies

2. Government Bailouts vs. Corporate Responsibility

3. Profit Dynamics of Insurance Firms

4. Subsidised Loans and Business Practice Ethics

5. Risk and Reward in High-Risk Investments

6. Tactics for Long-term Financial Security in Small Companies

7. Real Estate Investment Risks and Myths

8. Investment Opportunities During Economic Downturns

9. Strategies for Risk-free Profits in the Stock Market

10. Factors Influencing Business Bankruptcy Probability

11. Human Resource Management Dissertation Topics

Implementing HR Philosophies in the Workplace

1. Collaboration Between Corporate Management and HR

2. Choosing Interpersonal Skills: Soft vs. Hard

3. Objectivity vs. Subjectivity in Employee Appraisal

4. Employee Engagement and Incentive Impact

5. HR Departments' Role in Organisational Change

6. Performance Improvement Strategies for Employee Evaluation

7. Employee Perspectives on Performance Reviews

8. Impact of Motivation Programs on Productivity

9. Enhancing the Employee Selection Process

E-Commerce Dissertation Topics

1. Investigating New Businesses' E-Commerce Strategies

2. Analysing Traditional Businesses' E-Commerce Migration

3. E-Commerce Strategies: Serendipity or Strategy?

4. Components of a Successful E-Commerce Strategy

5. Examining Payment Processing Models

6. Evaluating Social Media's Role in E-Commerce

7. Strengthening Customer Relationships through E-Commerce Tactics

8. The Significance of Unique Selling Points in E-Commerce Growth

9. E-Commerce Marketing Mix: Online vs. Hybrid Presence

10. Comparing Pay-Per-Click and Pay-Per-Click Advertising

Economics Dissertation Topics

1. Impact of Market Competition on Corporate Growth Strategies

2. COVID-19's Influence on Corporate Market Entry

3. Non-Profit Financing Models and Long-Term Viability

4. Privatisation's Economic Policy Ramifications

5. Challenges Posed by Digitalization in Industries

6. Brexit's Effects on UK Industrial Policies

7. COVID-19's Impact on the Entertainment Industry

8. Global Perspectives on Alternative Energy Markets

9. Shifting Consumer Preferences Over Two Decades

10. Cultural Influence on Entrepreneurial Behavior and Business Initiatives

Health Care Management Dissertation Topics

1. Examining Mid-Level Providers' Role in Healthcare

2. Telemedicine's Impact on Healthcare Administration

3. Addressing the Opioid Crisis in Healthcare

4. Growth and Consequences of Urgent Care Clinics

5. Supporting Families Caring for Dementia Patients

6. Health Literacy's Influence on Prostate Cancer Outcomes

7. Governance and Ethics in Patient Portal Use by Guardians

8. Employee Turnover Due to Tuition Reimbursement Programs

9. Follow-Up Procedures After Medical Errors

10. State Legislation's Effects on Medical Malpractice Insurance

International Business Dissertation Topics

1. Investigating the Success of Global Business Teams in Multinational Companies: Testing an Interfering Process Model.

2. Exploring Corporate Governance's Role in Globalization and Firm Performance.

3. Assessing Brexit's Impact on British SMEs: An Examination of Likely Effects.

4. Analysing Business-Government Relations: Contingency Theory Perspective.

5. Understanding Globalization's Method and Impact on Business Collaboration.

6. Retail Management Dissertation Topics

7. The Contribution of Visual Merchandising to Clothing Brand Income in UK Malls.

8. Management's Role in Revenue Generation in Automotive Retail.

9. Evaluating Store Location Effects on Apparel Brand Sales in UK Malls.

10. Assessing the Impact of Retail Promotions on Inventory Turnover.

11. Applied Retail Analysis in B2B Industries: Optimal Store Placement.

Rural Management Dissertation Topics

1. Examining Media Influence on Rural Development.

2. Rural Development and Community Health Administration: Exploring Roles.

3. Cooperative Societies' Impact on Rural Development.

4. Community Banks' Contribution to Rural Development.

5. Identifying Socioeconomic Barriers to Rural Growth.

Change Management on Dissertation Topics

1. Dissertation Topics on Managing Change

2. Incorporating Change Management Education in Universities

3. Identification of Tools and Techniques for Change Management in Construction Projects

4. Critical Analysis of Organisational Change Management in UK-based Companies

5. Impact of Change Management Processes on Performance in Mega Programme Projects

6. Change Management Perspectives among Veterinary Nurses

7. Inter-organisational System Performance and Change Management

8. Examining Africa's Change Management Approaches: The Ubuntu Values

9. The Influence of Business and IT Functions on Organisational Change Management

10. Evolution of Change Management Perspectives over Time

11. Change Management and Cultural Revitalisation Movements in Organisations

12. Change Management in Healthcare Nursing: A Comprehensive Review

13. Hexagonal vs. Pentagonal Models in Change Management

14. Significance of Grounded Theory Approach in Change Management

15. Ethics, Values, and Leadership in Change Management

1. Entrepreneurship Trends: A Recent Boom

2. Impact of Increasing Entrepreneurs on the UK Economy

3. Entrepreneurial Adoption of Cloud Technology for Quality Control and Cost Savings

4. Scope of Entrepreneurship in the UK: Implications for Competition and Productivity

5. Technological Developments and Entrepreneurship Effects

6. Gender Dynamics in Developing Entrepreneurial Skills

7. Government Policy Influence on Entrepreneurship

8. Entrepreneurial Role in Economic Development

9. Factors Influencing Entrepreneurial Creativity

10. Entrepreneurship Education's Impact on Skill Development

11. Public Support for Technology-based Ventures

12. Factors Affecting New Ventures' Growth

13. Legislative and Fiscal Policies Encouraging Entrepreneurship

14. Alternative Marketing Tactics for Small-scale Food Entrepreneurs

15. Crowdsourcing: Definition and Functionality

Logistics and Supply Chain Management Dissertation Topics

1.  Investigating the Importance of Supply Chain Management in Company Outsourcing

2. Assessing Risks within a Supply Chain

3. Analysis of Technology's Role in Present Supply Chain Structures

4. Examining the Connections Between Supply Chain and Company Logistics

5. Investigating Tax Evasion in Car Supply Chains and Its Impact on Procurement Costs

6. Challenges to Implementing an Effective Supply Management System

7. Evaluation of Information Dissemination and Sharing Among Supply Chain Intermediaries

8. Evaluating Cost Reduction Measures in China's Car Exports and Imports

9. Importance of Logistics Management in UK Clothing Reorders

10. Coping with Supply Chain and Logistics Changes: A Study on UK Businesses

So, there you have it! A diverse buffet of MBA dissertation topics to tantalise your intellectual taste buds. Remember, choosing the right one is key. Don't be afraid to get creative and explore uncharted territory. After all, your dissertation is your chance to shine, showcase your expertise, and leave a lasting mark on the business world. Dive in, research, analyse, and remember, the perfect MBA dissertation idea awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i choose an mba thesis topic, what is an mba dissertation, is mba dissertation hard, how long is an mba dissertation, how do i find unique mba dissertation topics, how many pages is a dissertation.

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What’s Included: The Dissertation Template

If you’re preparing to write your dissertation, thesis or research project, our free dissertation template is the perfect starting point. In the template, we cover every section step by step, with clear, straightforward explanations and examples .

The template’s structure is based on the tried and trusted best-practice format for formal academic research projects such as dissertations and theses. The template structure reflects the overall research process, ensuring your dissertation or thesis will have a smooth, logical flow from chapter to chapter.

The dissertation template covers the following core sections:

• The title page/cover page
• Abstract (sometimes also called the executive summary)
• Table of contents
• List of figures /list of tables
• Chapter 1: Introduction  (also available: in-depth introduction template )
• Chapter 2: Literature review  (also available: in-depth LR template )
• Chapter 3: Methodology (also available: in-depth methodology template )
• Chapter 4: Research findings /results (also available: results template )
• Chapter 5: Discussion /analysis of findings (also available: discussion template )
• Chapter 6: Conclusion (also available: in-depth conclusion template )
• Reference list

Each section is explained in plain, straightforward language , followed by an overview of the key elements that you need to cover within each section. We’ve also included practical examples to help you understand exactly what’s required in each section.

The cleanly-formatted Google Doc can be downloaded as a fully editable MS Word Document (DOCX format), so you can use it as-is or convert it to LaTeX.

FAQs: Dissertation Template

What format is the template (doc, pdf, ppt, etc.).

The dissertation template is provided as a Google Doc. You can download it in MS Word format or make a copy to your Google Drive. You’re also welcome to convert it to whatever format works best for you, such as LaTeX or PDF.

What types of dissertations/theses can this template be used for?

The template follows the standard best-practice structure for formal academic research projects such as dissertations or theses, so it is suitable for the vast majority of degrees, particularly those within the sciences.

Some universities may have some additional requirements, but these are typically minor, with the core structure remaining the same. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to double-check your university’s requirements before you finalise your structure.

Will this work for a research paper?

A research paper follows a similar format, but there are a few differences. You can find our research paper template here .

Is this template for an undergrad, Masters or PhD-level thesis?

This template can be used for a dissertation, thesis or research project at any level of study. It may be slight overkill for an undergraduate-level study, but it certainly won’t be missing anything.

How long should my dissertation/thesis be?

This depends entirely on your university’s specific requirements, so it’s best to check with them. As a general ballpark, Masters-level projects are usually 15,000 – 20,000 words in length, while Doctoral-level projects are often in excess of 60,000 words.

What about the research proposal?

If you’re still working on your research proposal, we’ve got a template for that here .

We’ve also got loads of proposal-related guides and videos over on the Grad Coach blog .

How do I write a literature review?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack how to write a literature review from scratch. You can check out the literature review section of the blog here.

How do I create a research methodology?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack research methodology, both qualitative and quantitative. You can check out the methodology section of the blog here.

Can I share this dissertation template with my friends/colleagues?

Yes, you’re welcome to share this template. If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, all we ask is that you reference this page as your source.

Can Grad Coach help me with my dissertation/thesis?

Within the template, you’ll find plain-language explanations of each section, which should give you a fair amount of guidance. However, you’re also welcome to consider our dissertation and thesis coaching services .

Dissertation format for MBA

Table of Contents

What is the dissertation format?

A set of guidelines for how to structure and format a dissertation is called a dissertation format. Dissertations are typically lengthy, research-based papers that doctoral students write. Dissertations can be made clear, concise, and simple to read with the help of the dissertation format.

There are two primary styles of dissertations :

• The most prevalent format for dissertations is the traditional format. It has a clear and concise style of writing, a logical structure, and a thorough bibliography.
• The alternative dissertation format is more imaginative and adaptable, allowing students to experiment with various writing formats and styles.

If you need assistance  for your dissertation or thesis. No matter your Topic or subject,our dissertation writing is the best approach to your future career success.

It is a reality that your profession is highly ruled by the quality of the dissertation which you give in the final year. 

• So, where to search for the correct dissertation help? 
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As the market is overwhelmed with several pdh thesis writing services , it is tough to make the correct choice. Here we have put our best move to help you out with this problem. If you want to acquire a truly magnificent dissertation written that can secure your high score.

Given here are a few noticeable causes why it is the best option in 2020 to get dissertations and dissertation proposals written.

How to select a Dissertation Format

The most effective method for selecting a dissertation format is to take into account your topic, writing style. You will need to adhere to the university’s guidelines if you are writing a traditional dissertation. If you’re writing a different dissertation, you can choose your own format more freely

Dissertation Writing Tips

Here are some dissertation writing tips:

• Begin early. It is essential to get started early because completing dissertations can take months or even years.
• Set goals that are doable. Separate your paper into more modest, more sensible errands.
• Get advice. Ask for feedback on your work from your advisor, professors, and classmates.
• Edit and revise. Make sure to carefully revise and edit your dissertation once you have a draft.

One of the leading causes for the general demand for UK Dissertation Help is their quickness. 

Even the most tedious and less time-consuming jobs like dissertation writing are fulfilled simply well before the time duration assigned to them.  Apart from that, these specialists pay utmost heed exactly, and hence the task given by them is thoroughly edited, proofread, and free from any sorts of mistakes. Flawless quality is what you can assume from them.

Dissertation Format for University

• Chapter 1: Introduction
• Chapter 2 :Methodology
• Chapter 3: Analysis
• Chapter 4: Outcomes of the study
• Chapter 5: Experiences learning and conclusion

Dissertation Format one should follow. Dissertation proposal is the first impression to make to the project guide after choosing the dissertation topics. It guides your scholar to evaluate how successful your dissertation project is going to be and hence it is extremely significant.

Opting for dissertation writing help is the best thing you can do to get a truly plagiarism-free project report that can give you approval.

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Competitive analysis between the different service providers has shown that UK dissertation assignment help costs you relatively cheaper, economical, and hence affordability is one another cause that makes this service provider a great option in 2020. 

These professional specialists maintain secrecy as far as price is concerned. They deliver customized Projects answers also that are tailored correctly according to the requirements of consumers.

Moreover, at MBA Project Guide UK dissertation help service is known for its finest customer care support which is forever readily available to take up your queries or address your doubts.

Technical staff also remain in constant touch with the candidates and therefore the projects are done by them adhere to the exact formatting and styling required by the Universities and Departments of their consumers. No wonder why the greatness of the service is increasing by leaps and bounds among the candidates. 

If you foolow proper dissertation format for Dissertation Proposal Writing Help or want to get guided in achieving an intricate assignment, it is the topmost choice in 2023 and beyond for UK Dissertation Help .

Thesis Cover Page

 You can write a dissertation that is easy to read, clear, and concise if you follow these tips.

• Write proper subheadings and headings for synopsis format. This will assist with separating your exposition and make it simpler for individuals to find the data they are searching for.
• Use pictures and graphs. Pictures and graphs can assist with separating your paper and make it all the more outwardly engaging.
• Summary: The theoretical is a short synopsis of your exposition. It should not exceed 350 words in length and include the following details: the objectives of your study, the approaches you took, the outcomes of your research, and the conclusions you arrived .

Table of Content: The cover sheet ought to incorporate the accompanying data: the date, your name, your degree program, and the title of your dissertation.

Contents listing: Your dissertation’s chapters and sections are listed in alphabetical order in the table of contents. Each chapter or section’s page number should be included.

A list of tables and figures: All of the figures and tables in your dissertation are listed in the list of figures and tables. The figure or table number, its title, and the page number where it appears ought to be included.

Acknowledgement: On the acknowledgments page, you should express gratitude to those who assisted you with your dissertation. This could incorporate your guide, teachers, colleagues, family, and companions.

Executive Summary: A summary of your dissertation should be provided in the introduction. It ought to contain the following data: the significance of your study, the research questions you asked, and the approaches you took.

Literature review: The previous research on your subject should be discussed in the literature review. It ought to contain the following data: the most important ideas and theories about your subject, the research that has been done on it, and any gaps in it.

Methodology: How you carried out your research should be described in the methodology section. It ought to contain the following data: the methods for data collection, data analysis, and research design.

Results:: The outcomes area ought to introduce the discoveries of your exploration. It ought to contain the following data: the inferential statistics, descriptive statistics, and conclusions you arrived at from your data

Discussion:: The conversation segment ought to decipher the consequences of your examination. It ought to incorporate the accompanying data: the repercussions of your findings, the limitations of your research, and the directions for subsequent research.

Conclusion: The main points of your dissertation should be summarized in the conclusion. The repercussions of your findings and the directions for future research should also be included.

References:: All of the sources cited in your dissertation should be listed in the references section. It should be formatted in accordance with your university’s style guide.

Appendices: The indeces can incorporate any supporting materials that are not fundamental for the principal body of your paper. Surveys, interview transcripts, or statistical tables are all examples of this.

It is essential to keep in mind that these are only guidelines in general. Your university’s or program’s requirements will determine the specific format of your dissertation. Make certain to check with your counselor or program facilitator for explicit rules.

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120+ MBA Dissertation Topics: The Best Ideas for Students in 2024

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MBA is a field that keeps on evolving. As businesses evolve, the field of MBA witnesses waves of change. This makes it all the more difficult to keep track of the newest changes in the field. Hence, you have to be extremely thoughtful while selecting a topic for your MBA dissertation.

Read on to learn more about how to choose the perfect topic for your MBA dissertation. Also, we have a treasure trove of brilliant topics waiting to be unlocked! 

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Dissertation Topic

If you are an MBA, then choosing topics for your dissertations is not easy. Below are certain key factors that influence your choice of topics for your management thesis.

Understanding the Purpose 

You should be able to understand the topic for researching MBA entrepreneurship in greater depth. Your dissertation should highlight critical prevalent theories or provide innovative solutions to difficulties you may encounter in international business.

Selecting the Appropriate Topic

You must choose the appropriate topic for your MBA dissertation. As a part of your MBA dissertation topics for college, it should match the interests of international students and their career aspirations. They must also be able to fulfill their professor’s expectations.

Conducting an In-Depth Literature Review

Conducting an in-depth literature analysis of the MBA dissertation should help you understand the gaps in knowledge. Asking close-ended questions and providing knowledge would help you remove any gaps that may exist in the field of skills.

Designing a Customized Research Methodology

Your research questions should be relevant to your answers under the theoretical framework. Some usual content formats for which you have to select a topic include case studies, data analysis, interviews, and surveys.

Analyzing and Collecting Data

After you have designed your research methodology, it’s time to elicit data. For this, you must ensure that you derive data from valuable and trustworthy sources. Regarding primary data, you should pay attention to the surveys and interview-taking strategies. Finally, you should conduct an in-depth analysis of the software or tools you are going to use to obtain reasonable insights that you can apply to the results derived from experimentation.

Providing Your Insights on Observations

You must explain your observations in a well-arranged and visually vibrant way, comprising charts, graphs, tables, and more complicated data for your readers. Then, you should draw meaningful results from the data derived.

Identifying the Drawbacks of the Research

Every research paper topic faces certain issues regarding a specific topic, and you must admit them in your dissertation. It portrays how much you comprehend the research procedure and can detect the problems that you may have encountered.

With hard work, consistency and practice you are surely going to come up with unique MBA dissertation topics and their answers.

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An Updated List of MBA Dissertation Topics for College

The MBA dissertation topics you choose decide how much your students can pay attention to. Below are some of the international business dissertation topics.

• Business Management Dissertation Topics

You can choose topics associated with business management where you can apply the skills in specific domains. Stated below are some of the MBA dissertation topics.

• Discuss the scope and the issues of globalization impacting small and medium enterprises
• Identify and explain the strategies of management of cultural differences in multinational corporations
• Determine the market entry strategies for international business and a comparative analysis of their international business practices
• Case Studies for Evolving Markets to analyze the role of Corporate Social Responsibility in international business
• Identify the e-commerce strategies and their trends, issues, and scope analysis in developing countries.
• Recognize the patterns and trends observed in evolving markets in Foreign direct investment
• Find ways to acquire sustainability and efficiency in improving supply chain management approaches in global organizations.
• Case Studies in Conflicting Arenas in relation to the political risk faced in international business operations
• Recognize the strategies for managing talent through motivating, retaining and developing international employees.
• Explain the global marketing strategies for luxurious brands at the domestic level
• Find out sustainable practices for business with respect to maintaining the environment and performing social responsibility
• Case studies on the role of International financial organizations in promoting the development of the economy
• Idenitify the moral conflicts faced in maintaining profit balance and attaining Corporate responsibility in international business.
• Find ways to adopt Corporate Finance strategies in International business by boosting the value of shareholders.
• Determine ways of implementing various leadership styles in managing the diversity of culture in global business teams.

B. Logistics and Supply Chain Management

The research topics on logistics management and procurement would ensure that you study in depth the importance of the procurement process. Below are some MBA dissertation topics that would make you fit to apply for a role in the specified field.

• Identify the risk management techniques and their evaluation in the supply chain.
• Derive opinions for joint ventures in supply chain 
• Identify the implementation of strategies for environment-friendly supply chain practices
• Study the impact of environment management strategies in the integration of supply chain performance and innovation in technology
• Develop an association between quality management strategies and their impacts on the performance of the organization
• Discuss the role played by outsourced supply chain management in global financial markets
• Assess techniques related to reducing operational costs for SCM of products for exports and imports.
• Make a comparative analysis of models for forecasting and their demand in multichannel retail businesses
• A case study on practices of supply chain practices leading to circular flow in the economy
• Identify the moral and judicious practices of procurement and assessment of issues in implementation and their advantages
• Study the effect of solutions in mobility related to the latest technologies or transportation technologies on logistics
• Explore the difficulties and behavior associated with the supply chain and its effect on digital transformation and globalization
• Investigating in the commercial sector, the strategies of procurement management of specialized projects.
• Analyze in detail the practical application of logistics in the field of the Internet of Things
• Identify the impact of third and fourth-party logistics in the evolution of emerging technologies

C. Entrepreneurship Dissertation Topics

Below are some entrepreneurship dissertation topics that would help you learn your lessons well.

• Discuss the importance and ways of reducing the gender gap in capital through entrepreneurial procurement of funds
• Explain in detail the common objectives of finance and intellectual property procurement by entrepreneurs
• What are the effects of international economic policies on raising funds for enterprises?
• Discuss the finance models of sustainability for ventures in social enterprises
• What are the ways of relationship development and networking to obtain an entrepreneurial mindset?
• Define the ways in which social media marketing can be beneficial in an entrepreneurial atmosphere
• What are the ways in which trust can be developed with new entrepreneur ventures using ethical practices of marketing.
• How is content marketing revolutionizing the era of digital entrepreneurship?
• How can the strength of outreach and advertising be gained through the medium of storytelling?
• How can alternative choices of finance models be utilized for contributing funds for social innovation?
• What are the opportunities available, and how is it beneficial in promoting entrepreneurship chances in cybersecurity for the protection of digital assets
• Identify what are the trends in consumer behavior for product development in small businesses
• Recognize the advantages of cooperative business models and their impacts on contemporary entrepreneurship
• Study the impact of sustainable tourism on domestic entrepreneurial activities
• Investigate the importance and operations of customer service for improving the e-commerce business performance

D. Healthcare Management

Healthcare-related topics regarding patient care mention how healthcare becomes important in promoting the well-being of the patient. Stated below are some MBA thesis topics related to healthcare management that would help you to form a clear idea about the subject.

• What are the social and economic hurdles to vaccination equity and internal healthcare?
• How can technology play a crucial role in healthcare management systems with the help of artificial intelligence technologies?
• What moral and legal diagnosis should you adopt for patients who are reluctant to accept medical treatment?
• Develop a case study on analyzing the impacts of different psychological, economic and social needs of young adults on the mental health of the public in general
• Analyze the different norms and guidelines used by therapists for curing patients
• What are the factors to consider and ways to map the pathophysiology of patients when treating their complicated medical needs associated with vascular dementia?
• What are the impacts of environment-friendly approaches in HR management in managing performance in the healthcare sector?
• How can the communication of the staff and the management in the healthcare sector be analyzed that would help in the management of the patient?
• What are the ideal steps you must take in managing the healthcare to rectify the previous medical errors consequently after follow-up?
• Explain in detail whether the level of satisfaction is higher in lower-income families of patients than in higher-income families.
• Identify and elaborate on the techniques and tools used to provide support with computer-assisted models and techniques to improve the quality of healthcare management systems and systems for making policies.
• Provide a detailed analysis of the effectiveness of one and many tablet medical prescriptions in the diagnosis of HIV in patients.
• Elucidate how records in the clinical sector play an important role in administering healthcare and decision-making in emergencies during a pandemic.
• Investigate the impacts of performance assessment and culture of the organization for assessing the process of managing knowledge in healthcare organizations.
• Observe what are the conditions that impact the waiting times of the patients in primary care facilities.

E. Human Resource Management

You must be able to bring out employee motivation, manage talent, and develop a culturally inclusive work environment. 

Below are some human resource management dissertation topics that would help you develop a concept in HR.

• How to coach employees to improve their performance?
• What are the different stages of the recruitment process?
• What are the key performance indicators in HR management strategy?
• How to effectively inspect and assess the work of the employees?
• What role does an HR contribute in the acquisition and merger process?
• What are the difficulties faced by HR management in influencing the behavior of the teams?
• How to properly manage relationships with the employees?
• What are the influences of politics on human resource management?
• How to obtain accountability for resources in human resource management?
• What are the ways Artificial Intelligence can be used in human resource management?
• What are the ways of designing efficient performance appraisal systems for developing the skills and motivating employees?
• How to design effective training and development programs that foster the productivity and performance of the employees?
• Analyze the relationship between employees’ work-life balance and employee well-being programs and how these programs contribute to their job performance.
• Assess how HR Analytics play an important role in driving data-associated decisions in human resource development strategies

F. Finance Management

With some sample finance management dissertation topics, you will surely get a chance to practice and score high marks in your examinations. Below are a few of the MBA dissertation topics for you to have a clear idea.

• How does the World Trade Organization play an important role in contributing to the economy of the global fiscal market?
• Discuss what are the impacts of the crisis of credit in the fiscal market
• Explain in detail the level of fiscal stability in the system of banking in the developing countries
• Provide a detailed explanation of the retirement plans offered by local financial institutions in developed countries
• Discuss the techniques of fiscal risk management in the maritime financial field.
• Find out the ways in which there is an increase in the development of microfinance globally
• What are the ways in which fraudulent activities can be prevented in banking systems?
• Identify the perks associated with mutual funds, who they are advantageous to, and how they can help you.
• Elucidate in detail what are the kinds of abnormalities in the structure of the assets in the firms and the management procedures for foreign capital
• Describe in detail the changes in the emergence of commercial banking systems and preferences associated with it
• Choose and provide a reason for selecting financial sources that provide financial aid to unique projects
• For high-risk investments and expansion, how important is it to receive access to other credit sources and financial services?
• Explain how the corporate strategy and capital structure are associated with each other.
• Discuss in detail the reinforcements and risks that global banks usually face

G. Retail Management Dissertation Topics

Stated below are some retail management dissertation topics that would help you gain specialized knowledge in that field.

• Analyze how social media plays an important role in shaping consumer behavior in retail organizations
• Discuss how acquiring augmented reality frameworks helps in the economic growth and expansion of retail organizations
• Discuss how you can implement retail inventory management strategies for the purpose of optimization
• Find out the reasons why consumers change their purchase decisions in the retail sector
• Understand how and identify the ways subscription-based models have evolved in retail business
• Measure how globalization impacts local retail brands in a great way
• Assess how e-commerce has impacted the traditional retail sector
• How does Artificial Intelligence play an important role in providing customized retail suggestions?
• What are the rules and regulations to be followed for the purpose of managing retail businesses?
• What is the role of mobile technology in influencing consumer behavior in retail businesses?
• How do unique pricing techniques influence the behavior of consumers in the retail sector?
• How can integrations of big data analytics be applied to decision-making in retail businesses?
• How can you provide your consumers with a customized shopping experience and obtain customer loyalty in retail businesses?
• How can you motivate your employees and promote job satisfaction of your employees?
• How do you measure the effectiveness of the impact of loyalty programs in the retail industry?

H. Risk Management Dissertation Topics

The strategic risk management topics would reflect your understanding of the power of devising a strategic plan and executing it to achieve your goals in an organization. Stated below are some risk management topics that would help you to gain skills in the relevant field.

• How do you develop an association between organizational performance and risk management?
• How do insurance organizations develop risk management strategies in particular organizations?
• How can you manage risks related to your organization in association with environmental and social factors?
• How can you implement operational techniques and financial tools for obtaining supply chain risk management mergers?
• Identify what are the factors that contribute to providing financial services to the organization for executing operational management system frameworks?
• What are the particular difficulties and interferences faced by an organization in relation to risk management by an enterprise?
• Investigate in detail the importance of risk management for providing consumer safety
• Compare the differences between modern and traditional strategies in risk management
• Make a descriptive analysis of strategies in risk management in the pharmaceutical industry
• Analyze the impacts of disaster and implement its management strategies for reducing the risk faced by an organization
• What is the importance of Six Sigma quality principles for the goal of portfolio risk management?
• Identify the risk management strategies and their practical applications followed in organizations of developing countries
• Marketing Dissertation Topics

Below are some interesting marketing topics that will surely give you a chance to apply your concepts in the professional field.

• What is the importance of social media marketing in developing brands?
• Why is brand management important in generating revenue?
• What role do Amazon and Google ads play in contributing to online e-commerce?
• How do smart devices help in increasing the sales of an organization?
• Why is it important to analyze the impact of consumers’ psychology on an organization’s marketing?
• How do landing pages play an important role in contributing to marketing?
• Why is email marketing strategy still important for organizations in current times?
• How do customer demographics influence their purchase decisions?
• What are the issues related to dealing with unhappy customers, and how to overcome abandonment of the purchases obtained?
• How can marketing strategies through online content develop a greater brand presence and obtain greater customer loyalty?
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of digital marketing and mobile marketing?

Where and How to Secure Outstanding MBA Dissertation Topics?

Choosing a relevant dissertation topic that is also interesting is not an easy task. Again, zeroing down on broad yet focused MBA dissertation paper topics can be quite a challenge. If you cannot figure out which MBA dissertation topics to choose from the list of ideas we have compiled, come to us. Our MBA-qualified experts will help you pick the ideal topic that will make your MBA dissertation stand out in the crowd.

We also offer dissertation and research paper help . Our experts can also help you with every stage of the dissertation writing process, including researching, drafting the paper, citing the sources, and editing the content. 

Hence, do not miss the chance to place an order with us!

By following the necessary tips and tricks for choosing an MBA dissertation topic and through the specified topic ideas provided, you will surely master the concepts! So, go on! Dig deep and choose from our wide variety of research paper topics . 

Alexander Andeerson

Hi, my name is Alexander Anderson. I am 30, and I am an English writing expert based in Melbourne. I started writing and blogging from a young age, and most of my write-ups are based on real experiences and self-taught. Currently, I write Academic Blogs for Students all across the Globe at MyAssignmenthelp.com. In addition to guiding students on their writing projects, I have also written on the topics of modern and contemporary art. If there’s something that I love more than Literature and art, it’s my Hungarian furry bud “Amos”. When I am not working, I am spending time with this greatest blessing in my life. 

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• How to Write a Literature Review | Guide, Examples, & Templates

How to Write a Literature Review | Guide, Examples, & Templates

Published on January 2, 2023 by Shona McCombes . Revised on September 11, 2023.

What is a literature review? A literature review is a survey of scholarly sources on a specific topic. It provides an overview of current knowledge, allowing you to identify relevant theories, methods, and gaps in the existing research that you can later apply to your paper, thesis, or dissertation topic .

There are five key steps to writing a literature review:

• Search for relevant literature
• Evaluate sources
• Identify themes, debates, and gaps
• Outline the structure
• Write your literature review

A good literature review doesn’t just summarize sources—it analyzes, synthesizes , and critically evaluates to give a clear picture of the state of knowledge on the subject.

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Table of contents

What is the purpose of a literature review, examples of literature reviews, step 1 – search for relevant literature, step 2 – evaluate and select sources, step 3 – identify themes, debates, and gaps, step 4 – outline your literature review’s structure, step 5 – write your literature review, free lecture slides, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions, introduction.

• Quick Run-through
• Step 1 & 2

When you write a thesis , dissertation , or research paper , you will likely have to conduct a literature review to situate your research within existing knowledge. The literature review gives you a chance to:

• Demonstrate your familiarity with the topic and its scholarly context
• Develop a theoretical framework and methodology for your research
• Position your work in relation to other researchers and theorists
• Show how your research addresses a gap or contributes to a debate
• Evaluate the current state of research and demonstrate your knowledge of the scholarly debates around your topic.

Writing literature reviews is a particularly important skill if you want to apply for graduate school or pursue a career in research. We’ve written a step-by-step guide that you can follow below.

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See an example

Writing literature reviews can be quite challenging! A good starting point could be to look at some examples, depending on what kind of literature review you’d like to write.

• Example literature review #1: “Why Do People Migrate? A Review of the Theoretical Literature” ( Theoretical literature review about the development of economic migration theory from the 1950s to today.)
• Example literature review #2: “Literature review as a research methodology: An overview and guidelines” ( Methodological literature review about interdisciplinary knowledge acquisition and production.)
• Example literature review #3: “The Use of Technology in English Language Learning: A Literature Review” ( Thematic literature review about the effects of technology on language acquisition.)
• Example literature review #4: “Learners’ Listening Comprehension Difficulties in English Language Learning: A Literature Review” ( Chronological literature review about how the concept of listening skills has changed over time.)

You can also check out our templates with literature review examples and sample outlines at the links below.

Download Word doc Download Google doc

Before you begin searching for literature, you need a clearly defined topic .

If you are writing the literature review section of a dissertation or research paper, you will search for literature related to your research problem and questions .

Make a list of keywords

Start by creating a list of keywords related to your research question. Include each of the key concepts or variables you’re interested in, and list any synonyms and related terms. You can add to this list as you discover new keywords in the process of your literature search.

• Social media, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, TikTok
• Body image, self-perception, self-esteem, mental health
• Generation Z, teenagers, adolescents, youth

Search for relevant sources

Use your keywords to begin searching for sources. Some useful databases to search for journals and articles include:

• Your university’s library catalogue
• Google Scholar
• Project Muse (humanities and social sciences)
• Medline (life sciences and biomedicine)
• EconLit (economics)
• Inspec (physics, engineering and computer science)

You can also use boolean operators to help narrow down your search.

Make sure to read the abstract to find out whether an article is relevant to your question. When you find a useful book or article, you can check the bibliography to find other relevant sources.

You likely won’t be able to read absolutely everything that has been written on your topic, so it will be necessary to evaluate which sources are most relevant to your research question.

For each publication, ask yourself:

• What question or problem is the author addressing?
• What are the key concepts and how are they defined?
• What are the key theories, models, and methods?
• Does the research use established frameworks or take an innovative approach?
• What are the results and conclusions of the study?
• How does the publication relate to other literature in the field? Does it confirm, add to, or challenge established knowledge?
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the research?

Make sure the sources you use are credible , and make sure you read any landmark studies and major theories in your field of research.

You can use our template to summarize and evaluate sources you’re thinking about using. Click on either button below to download.

Take notes and cite your sources

As you read, you should also begin the writing process. Take notes that you can later incorporate into the text of your literature review.

It is important to keep track of your sources with citations to avoid plagiarism . It can be helpful to make an annotated bibliography , where you compile full citation information and write a paragraph of summary and analysis for each source. This helps you remember what you read and saves time later in the process.

To begin organizing your literature review’s argument and structure, be sure you understand the connections and relationships between the sources you’ve read. Based on your reading and notes, you can look for:

• Trends and patterns (in theory, method or results): do certain approaches become more or less popular over time?
• Themes: what questions or concepts recur across the literature?
• Debates, conflicts and contradictions: where do sources disagree?
• Pivotal publications: are there any influential theories or studies that changed the direction of the field?
• Gaps: what is missing from the literature? Are there weaknesses that need to be addressed?

This step will help you work out the structure of your literature review and (if applicable) show how your own research will contribute to existing knowledge.

• Most research has focused on young women.
• There is an increasing interest in the visual aspects of social media.
• But there is still a lack of robust research on highly visual platforms like Instagram and Snapchat—this is a gap that you could address in your own research.

There are various approaches to organizing the body of a literature review. Depending on the length of your literature review, you can combine several of these strategies (for example, your overall structure might be thematic, but each theme is discussed chronologically).

Chronological

The simplest approach is to trace the development of the topic over time. However, if you choose this strategy, be careful to avoid simply listing and summarizing sources in order.

Try to analyze patterns, turning points and key debates that have shaped the direction of the field. Give your interpretation of how and why certain developments occurred.

If you have found some recurring central themes, you can organize your literature review into subsections that address different aspects of the topic.

For example, if you are reviewing literature about inequalities in migrant health outcomes, key themes might include healthcare policy, language barriers, cultural attitudes, legal status, and economic access.

Methodological

If you draw your sources from different disciplines or fields that use a variety of research methods , you might want to compare the results and conclusions that emerge from different approaches. For example:

• Look at what results have emerged in qualitative versus quantitative research
• Discuss how the topic has been approached by empirical versus theoretical scholarship
• Divide the literature into sociological, historical, and cultural sources

Theoretical

A literature review is often the foundation for a theoretical framework . You can use it to discuss various theories, models, and definitions of key concepts.

You might argue for the relevance of a specific theoretical approach, or combine various theoretical concepts to create a framework for your research.

Like any other academic text , your literature review should have an introduction , a main body, and a conclusion . What you include in each depends on the objective of your literature review.

The introduction should clearly establish the focus and purpose of the literature review.

Depending on the length of your literature review, you might want to divide the body into subsections. You can use a subheading for each theme, time period, or methodological approach.

As you write, you can follow these tips:

• Summarize and synthesize: give an overview of the main points of each source and combine them into a coherent whole
• Analyze and interpret: don’t just paraphrase other researchers — add your own interpretations where possible, discussing the significance of findings in relation to the literature as a whole
• Critically evaluate: mention the strengths and weaknesses of your sources
• Write in well-structured paragraphs: use transition words and topic sentences to draw connections, comparisons and contrasts

In the conclusion, you should summarize the key findings you have taken from the literature and emphasize their significance.

When you’ve finished writing and revising your literature review, don’t forget to proofread thoroughly before submitting. Not a language expert? Check out Scribbr’s professional proofreading services !

This article has been adapted into lecture slides that you can use to teach your students about writing a literature review.

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If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

• Sampling methods
• Simple random sampling
• Stratified sampling
• Cluster sampling
• Likert scales
• Reproducibility

 Statistics

• Null hypothesis
• Statistical power
• Probability distribution
• Effect size
• Poisson distribution

Research bias

• Optimism bias
• Cognitive bias
• Implicit bias
• Hawthorne effect
• Anchoring bias
• Explicit bias

A literature review is a survey of scholarly sources (such as books, journal articles, and theses) related to a specific topic or research question .

It is often written as part of a thesis, dissertation , or research paper , in order to situate your work in relation to existing knowledge.

There are several reasons to conduct a literature review at the beginning of a research project:

• To familiarize yourself with the current state of knowledge on your topic
• To ensure that you’re not just repeating what others have already done
• To identify gaps in knowledge and unresolved problems that your research can address
• To develop your theoretical framework and methodology
• To provide an overview of the key findings and debates on the topic

Writing the literature review shows your reader how your work relates to existing research and what new insights it will contribute.

The literature review usually comes near the beginning of your thesis or dissertation . After the introduction , it grounds your research in a scholarly field and leads directly to your theoretical framework or methodology .

A literature review is a survey of credible sources on a topic, often used in dissertations , theses, and research papers . Literature reviews give an overview of knowledge on a subject, helping you identify relevant theories and methods, as well as gaps in existing research. Literature reviews are set up similarly to other  academic texts , with an introduction , a main body, and a conclusion .

An  annotated bibliography is a list of  source references that has a short description (called an annotation ) for each of the sources. It is often assigned as part of the research process for a  paper .  

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